This easy and almost level trail segment runs up high along the south wall of Sabino Canyon, connecting the Phoneline Trail to the East Fork and West Fork trails.

From the junction of the Sabino Canyon Trail and the Phoneline Trail turn left, or upcanyon. The trail climbs gently and then curves around to the right until you are looking upcanyon. After about 20 minutes you come a point where the trail passes through a saddle between the canyon wall and a rocky point that projects out into the canyon. Just past this point there is a faint trail down to Sabino Creek, which is a few hundred feet below on the left.

The trail continues relatively level, staying high above Sabino Creek. Towards the end it climbs a bit, and then drops down to the wooded Sabino Basin, where it ends at a signed junction with the East Fork Trail (straight ahead) and the West Fork Trail (to the left).

Take the West Fork trail to the left at the signed junction.

This trail goes from Sabino Basin to Hutch's Pool, and then on up to Romero Pass. It is heavily used in its lower stretches, but very lightly used up near Romero Pass.

From the intersection with the Sabino Canyon and East Fork Trails, the trail crosses the stream, and winds through the rocks and oaks of Sabino Basin. After you get out of the trees, the trail winds a very convoluted path through grassy hillocks, but remains almost level. The trail then straightens out and runs nearly level just above the north side of the creek.

This area is grassland with heavy oak forest down along the creek, and grass, ocotillo, saguaro and cholla on the slopes above the creek.

After about 20 minutes or so there is a large flat area which appears to have been heavily used for camping.

The trail continues, crossing through some patches of oak, and crosses the stream for the first time approximately 30 minutes from Sabino Basin. Shortly after this there is a nice camp spot in some pines to the right of the trail.

About 10 minutes after crossing the stream you reach the turn off for Hutch's Pool. There is no sign here, but there are numerous side trails heading off to the right that will take you to the pool.

Hutch's Pool is a long and narrow permanent pool in a sheer rock gorge. The downstream end is shallow with a sandy beach. The upstream end is very deep (over 15 feet), and there is a rock poised at that end which is perfect for diving off of. The water is deliciously cool even in the hottest part of the year. You couldn't find a better spot for swimming, diving, and sunbathing at any resort.

To return, just go back the way you came. If you decide to walk down the road in Sabino Canyon instead of taking the tram it will add an extra 3.7 miles.