Maus

Maus Trail connects the Honeybee Loop on the north side or the Tortolita Mountains with the Windmill Cattle tank near the top of the Tortolita Mountains, where Cougar Canyon trail begins. Maus trail has substantial technical climbing, and a bit of hike a bike. During the rainy season, June through September, the trail becomes over grown and washed out, due to rain and running water. When descending to Honeybee Trail, the upper high elevation can be very dangerous. When the trail is not washed out and overgrown, this trail is nearly 100% ridable with the exception of a couple very steep and technical hike a bikes. If you are not afraid of long steep climbs and steep descending, this is a scenic and challenging ride. Keep in mind, it is not for beginners. Cross Country and All Mountain bikes are recommended. Higher riding skill level is needed. If climbing north on Cougar Canyon trail (double track), it is recommended to turn around at the windmill, unless you are a skilled rider with an appropriate bike. Cougar Canyon is a steep, double track jeep trail, but is also scenic and nice to ride. Cougar Canyon is not technical, just a long and very steep climb.

Access Info

To access Maus Trail: Take Oracle Road north out of Tucson AZ, to Catalina AZ. Before Leaving Catalina AZ, take a left on Edwin Road. Edwin Road is not maintained and 4 wheel drive is recommended. You can also ride Edwin Road east toward the mine on your bike. Stay on Edwin Road travelling East until you get to the mine entrance. You will find yourself at a cattle guard, in the road. Park on the east side of the cattle guard, in the small parking area. Begin ride over cattle guard and take an immediate left (south). Follow jeep trail for 1/8 of mile south until you reach cattle tank windmill. The Maus trail is on the backside (south side of the cattle tank). At first it is a combination of single and double track, before turning into only single track while climbing.

This trail is unsanctioned.