Charouleau Gap Trail - Catalina / Oracle, Arizona

The Charouleau Gap is a scenic route through the Catalina Mountains. The trail runs from Catalina to Oracle through the Coronado National Forest. With beautiful rock formations and picturesque desert landscaping this trail is sure to please the outdoor enthusiast and avid four-wheeler. The trail is about 19 miles of rock obstacles, steep includes and declines and stream crossings. A place called “The Step” often requires assistance (see picture below). Driving aggressive may break parts in this remote area of the desert. Bring plenty of supplies and never take this round alone. In addtion, the Charouleau Gap requires an experienced off-roader and a vehicle with high ground clearance. If you decide to tackle the difficult obstacles you will need lockers and aggressive tire tread. After passing the “Gap” (path through the steep mountainous area) you will run into the Oro, Cañada Del wash. This area is a bit more technically challenging, but is a fun addition to the trek. An Off Road Trail Guide and Off Road GPS are recommended as route finding is complex.

Aside from the awesome views and off road obstacles, this area has a great deal of history. The ancient history of the western slopes of the Catalina mountains starts with the arrival of the Hohokam people from northern Mexico around AD 300, reaching their peak between AD 700 and 1000. The peak years of occupation in the Canada Del Oro were from AD 500-700. – (1979) Gregonis & Reinhard, Univ of Arizona Pr.

The latest recorded history of the area, which adopted the namesake, was in 1540 when the Spanish explorer Don Francisco de Coronado who traveled through much of the area in search of gold.

This trail was found using the 'Guide to Arizona Backroads & 4-Wheel Drive Trails' book. Discover this and many more trails in Arizona by purchasing your own copy today! With maps, turn-by-turn directions and GPS coordinates remove the guesswork and enjoy the beauty of the Arizona outdoors! If you’re planning a 4x4 trip, this guide is an invaluable resource. Click here for a full description and a where to buy!

Here are more photos from the Charouleau Gap Trail:

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