Happy Valley Saddle

About

Happy Valley Saddle sits at 6,200 feet in the Rincon Mountains of Saguaro National Park's eastern district, accessible only by foot via a demanding 3.9-mile hike with over 2,000 feet of elevation gain. The campground is reached from Miller Creek Trailhead (2WD accessible) or Turkey Creek Trailhead (high-clearance 4WD required), both located in Coronado National Forest on the east side of the range. The campground offers three designated sites, each accommodating up to six people. Amenities are minimal but include a vault toilet, bear boxes for food storage, fire rings, and tent pads. Water availability is highly unreliable; the creek running past the campground is sandy and water typically disappears below the surface. During wet periods, you may find pooled water by following the creek downstream to exposed rock areas. Campers should carry at least one gallon of water per person per day. The area contains many hazardous dead pine trees from past fires and is frequently affected by winter storms. Despite these challenges, Happy Valley Saddle provides an excellent base for climbing Rincon Peak and offers impressive eastern views during summer months. Campfires are permitted in designated fire rings when no fire restrictions are in effect.

Directions

From Tucson, take I-10 east to Mescal Road (Exit 297). Head south on Mescal Road, then turn right onto Happy Valley Road. Continue approximately 8 miles to Miller Creek Trailhead (2WD accessible) or continue to Turkey Creek Trailhead (high-clearance 4WD only). Both trailheads are in Coronado National Forest. From either trailhead, hike 1.5 miles to the park boundary, then continue to Happy Valley Saddle (3.9 miles total from Miller Creek with 2,000+ feet elevation gain).