Charleau Gap

Once you reach the trail head, sing in. The first mile or so is very easy, it does not require 4wd. There is a couple of small hill climbs and a very shallow water crossing if it has raind recently. Beyond, there are some semi-narrow switchbacks and some small hill climbs. Then there is a small ledge that is aproximately 12" in height that can be kind of difficult with a low entry or exit angle. Further, there is a 7 foot rock wall that can easily be avoided but is fun in a long wheel base. I saw a Sammi on his spare tire on that wall so i don't suggest it in a short wheel base. Then there is a really fun but semi-scary rock face that looks worse than it really is. Directly after that, there is some smooth rock shelves and a small hill climb. For the next half mile or so it is pretty simple. For the next mile or two there is some deep ruts that can be unnerving in a narrow vehicle but are possible. Beyond that it is just a narrow road and some easy hill climbs. That is only the half way point but is the farthest i have had time to go.

It does continue after that for about 8 or 10 miles and I've heard it is more difficult on that side. There is also a cabin over there with a water crossing. The trail does go all the way through to the town of Oracle. The entire trail takes aprox 6 to 8 hours with 5 or so vehicles. The point i stopped desciding it takes aprox 2 to 3 hrs. Here are some pics of the fun points I described.

Seasons:
Spring, Summer, Fall

When coming from Tucson area head Nort on hwy 77 until you reach Golder Ranch Rd. Turn East. Head east on Golder Ranch Road until you reach N. Lago Del Oro Pkwy. Head North untill you reach the sign on the east side of the raod that says "Charleau Gap 4x4 Trail". Turn right.

Nearby Town:
Oro VAlley