From the intersection of Tanque Verde and Grant/Kolb go west on Grant all the way down to Oracle Rd. Turn right on Oracle Rd (Highway 77) and head north past Pusch Ridge. After you have gone about 15-20 miles you will see the sign for Catalina State Park on the right.

There is an entrance fee to get into the park. To get to the trails, just drive in and follow the signs, or ask a ranger.

Romero Canyon Trail, FS #8
(Catalina State Park to Romero Pools)

Length: 2.8 miles
Hiking Time: 1.2 hours
Highest point: 3700 feet
Lowest point: 2720 feet
Trail goes uphill

This section of trail is very popular since it is very scenic, not too hard, and leads to the natural waterpark of Romero Pools.

There is a parking lot and large signs at the trailhead, so there should be no problem finding that. The trail starts across the street from the parking lot. There is a trail junction right at the trailhead; follow the sign straight ahead on the Romero Canyon Trail. A sign here says that no dogs are allowed one mile beyond this point.

A short distance in you cross the streambed (wet in winter, dry in summer). At the trail junction on a sign says that Romero Canyon is to the left. Take this trail.

About 10 minutes in there is another signed trail junction. Follow the arrow pointing to the Romero Canyon Trail. A few minutes farther there is another signed junction; once again you take the Romero Canyon Trail, which is to the left.

Up to this point the trail has been over the desert floor, but now it gets very rocky and starts to climb steeply up the north side of Montrose Canyon. About 45 minutes in from the trailhead you get to the top of the ridge between Romero and Montrose canyons, and then head upcanyon at or near the top of the ridge. This area on the top of the ridge is very beautiful, since it has rock formations, great views, and it took some work to get up here.

The trail winds its way through the rocks at the top of the ridge for about 20 minutes, generally climbing, but with some short descents, until you drop down to the stream crossing at Romero Pools. There are pools and waterfalls up and down stream from this point. To continue on the Romero Canyon Trail turn left and cross the stream at the first opportunity; do not stay on the trail as it parallels the stream without crossing it. On the opposite side of the stream follow the trail that climbs up and away from the stream.

To return, just retrace your route back to the trailhead.