A new multi-use trail is in the works — starting near Rancho Vistoso Boulevard in Oro Valley and extending northward along a watercourse known as Big Wash.
The planned trail, a cooperative project involving Pima County and the town of Oro Valley, would include a large parking area and trailhead facilities for walkers, cyclists and horseback riders.
A meeting to gather public input on the trail will be held at 6 p.m. Oct. 23. See box for details.
“The proposed trail will be a single-track 1.2-mile earthen path,†said Steve Anderson, planning division manager for Pima County Natural Resources, Parks and Recreation.
“The trail has been surveyed for biological resources and cultural resources†and laid out by a county trail crew, Anderson said. “The town of Oro Valley will be building the trailhead at the southwest corner of Rancho Vistoso Boulevard and Big Wash.â€
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Construction is scheduled to begin on Oct. 29 with the trail expected to be completed before Christmas.
TRAIL ON COUNTY LAND
The planned trail will be on a piece of land in Big Wash that was acquired by the Pima County Flood Control District and approved by the county Board of Supervisors in August, Anderson said.
Tentatively known as the Big Wash Trail, the route might eventually be named the Tribute Trail, he said.
The trail, Anderson said, will be the first phase of a planned route extending from the Cañada del Oro Wash to land in Tortolita Mountain Park to the northwest.
“Phase I of the trail (the currently planned segment) will go from the trailhead at Rancho Vistoso Boulevard to the northern boundary of the Flood Control District’s property to the north,†Anderson said. “The second phase will go from Tangerine Road to Rancho Vistoso Boulevard, and the third phase will be from the Cañada del Oro Wash to Tangerine Road.â€
TRAILHEAD FACILITIES
Anderson said facilities at the trailhead will include:
- Improved dust-free surface for public parking and access.
- Drainage infrastructure.
- 64 parking spaces.
- Equestrian trailer parking and mounting block.
- Bike rack.
- Restroom facilities with low-level lighting and drinking fountain.Signage for park and trailhead rules.
- Informational kiosk.
- Shaded seating.
