Pros & cons
PROS
- Signed, backfilled copper shaft right off the Loma Verde Loop
- Copper-stained rocks and tailings showcase the park’s mining story
CONS
- No amenities at the site; nearest restrooms are at picnic areas
- A modest, quick stop—more history than scenery
Overview
Loma Verde Mine is a small, abandoned copper prospect tucked along the easy Loma Verde Loop in the park’s east district. A sign marks the backfilled shaft, and the whole stop is more about the story of mining here than dramatic scenery. It’s a quick, worthwhile pause if you like a little history with your desert stroll.
What You’ll See
- The former shaft (now filled) and a simple sign explaining the site.
- Scattered tailings and copper-stained rocks—fun to spot, but leave everything in place.
- Classic Sonoran Desert: groves of mesquite and a sea of saguaros, with prickly pear, fishhook barrel cactus, and cholla adding texture.
- Wildlife is possible on this loop: jackrabbits, deer, coyotes, javelina, rattlesnakes, and raptors like American Kestrels.
How to Visit
Reach it via the Loma Verde Trail off Cactus Forest Loop Road. The trail network here is a choose‑your‑own‑adventure—Loma Verde connects with Pink Hill and Squeeze Pen for easy custom loops. Trails are generally well‑marked, but carrying a simple map helps.
There are no restrooms at the Loma Verde trailhead. Vault toilets and picnic tables are available at Mica View and Javelina picnic areas in the east district. Fill water at the Rincon Mountain Visitor Center; there’s no water at trailheads or picnic‑area restrooms. A park entrance fee applies.
Safety & Etiquette
This is a historic mine site—do not enter any openings, and don’t disturb tailings or artifacts. Desert travel basics apply: most plants wear spikes, and heat is real. Dogs aren’t permitted on these trails.
Best Time to Visit
Year‑round access. In summer, plan for early morning or evening when it’s cooler. Parking along the loop drive can be limited, so an early start pays off. If you have extra time, tack on the short Pink Hill spur for broader views before or after your quick stop at the mine.
Where it is
32.2034, -110.7099Tips for Loma Verde Mine
- 01Bring all the water you need; there’s no water at trailheads in the Cactus Forest.
- 02Hike in the cooler morning or evening, especially in summer.
- 03Carry a simple map—the web of intersecting trails can be confusing.
- 04Look for the signed, backfilled shaft and small tailings; leave any artifacts in place.
- 05Combine with the short Pink Hill spur for broader views.
Amenities
Near Loma Verde Mine
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayLoma Verde LoopEasy cactus loop with Pink Hill views and a dash of mining historyEasy · 3.8 mi · 1.5 hr
0 mi awayPink Hill TrailShort cactus walk to a pink-soil hill with big desert viewsModerate · 1.5 mi · 1 hr
0 mi awayRingtail TrailEasy desert loop with sandy washes, saguaros, and spring bloomsEasy · 3.4 mi · 2.5 hr
0 mi awayWild Dog TrailShort, sunny stroll through dense saguaros with sunset-worthy viewsEasy · 1.9 mi · 45 min
1 mi awayMica View Picnic AreaShady ramada with grills and an easy stroll through saguarosPicnic Table · Restroom
1.4 mi awayRincon Mountains OverlookQuick pullout with big views across the cactus forest to the RinconsPullout · Parking
1.5 mi awayCactus Forest OverlookTiny pullout, big saguaro views on the loop drivePullout · Parking
1.5 mi awayCactus Forest DriveSlow, scenic loop through towering saguaros and Sonoran Desert viewsPullout · Scenic Viewpoint
