Cienega Creek Natural Preserve

Cienega Creek Access

The Gabe Zimmerman Davidson Canyon Trailhead parking lot provides access to the Cienega Creek Natural Preserve and Davidson Canyon. This is a 10-car lot. The trailhead is located just off Marsh Station Road. Note: A permit is required to access the preserve. Open dawn to dusk. Details: 520-877-6000 (Pima County). Call (520) 877-6158 for permit information. These permits are free.

From Tucson on eastbound I-10, exit 281 (Sonoita/Patagonia), turn left to cross I-10 to Marsh Station Road. From westbound I-10, exit 281, loop exit to Marsh Station Road. Travel northeast on Marsh Station Road approximately 3 miles and watch for the Gabe Zimmerman Davidson Canyon Trailhead sign on the right. After parking, walk through the gate and go left (northeast) on the trail. At "Y" go right and follow trail down to creek.

Three Bridges, or the second parking lot, is 0.3 miles farther up on Marsh Station Road, on the left side and just before railroad tracks. Parking is allowed on front portion of lot. Do not go under tressel (railroad property). Road to third lot is right across Marsh Station Road from second lot and holds approximately 5 cars. Note: these two lots are recommended for viewing and photographing trains only. NRPR cautions against crossing railroad tracks to enter preserve.

Vail Access to Cienega Creek

From I-10 east or west, take exit 279 (Vail/Wentworth), head north on Colossal Cave Road approximately 2.6 miles to parking lot on right side just before bridge.

For your enjoyment and safety, please familiarize yourself with these rules:

• No alcohol.
• No unleashed pets.
• No shooting of firearms.
• No horses or bicycles – except on the Arizona Trail.
• No camping or campfires.
• No motorized vehicles except in designated parking areas.
• No scientific studies or collecting without prior authorization.
• No removal of or damage to recreation facilities, natural terrain, vegetation, or wildlife except as authorized by Arizona Game and Fish Regulations.

You are responsible for:

• Picking up all your trash.
• Cleaning up after your pets.
• Considerate and responsible behavior.
• Complying with all county, state and federal laws and regulations.

Cienega Creek Natural Preserve Bird List