Esperero Canyon  Photos:  Recent | Best | Popular Elevation:  5,000' Page Views:  1,376. Good page?    Administrators:  Kristine Hoffman, Greg Opland, James DeRoussel, JJ Schlick, Tom Erickson Submitted By:  James DeRoussel on Jul 10, 2010 Make this area a Favorite What's New  Printer View Add Area  Add Photo  Add Comment  Add Event  Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri 93° | 63° 93° | 64° 97° | 66° 97° | 64° 97° | 64°

The Spires, and their approach.

Description 

Esperero Canyon is one of several scenic canyons that grace the southern slopes of the Santa Catalina Mountains. Esperero is flanked by Ventana Canyon to the west and Sabino Canyon to the east.

A handful of crags and spires are clustered together about four miles up Esperero Trail from Sabino Canyon, with Esperero Spires being the most worthwhile. Variable rock quality and a long approach will guarantee solitude. Good camping can be found nearby.

Getting There 

From center of town, head north on Swan to Skyline Drive and take that road east to Sabino Canyon Rd. Pay the fee ($7) at the Sabino Canyon Visitor Center, walk up the road and start on the Esperero Canyon trail.

The Classics

Featured Route For Esperero Canyon

Cakewalk 5.6 PG13  AZ : Mount Lemmon (Santa Catalin... : ... : Esperero Spires

Start on Buttress just below notch in spires, A fixed nut was at the base when we did the route (March '08). Climb up buttress on low angle for 130' until a small ledge with belay potential is reached. P2 Head right of belay on short steep section with good holds then run out on easy ground with few protection opportunities. Belay on ledge with tree, backing up tree is highly advised. P3 continue up to top of route, staying on the right half of buttress, fun moves with great exposure. Desce...[more]   Browse More Classics in AZ