Montosa Canyon
In the southwest Santa Rita Mountains, this area is underbirded compared to other, better-known regions of the Santa Ritas. Common sightings are the Black-capped Gnatcatcher and Five-striped Sparrow, along with other birds typical of the Southeastern Arizona mountains.
Whipple Picnic Area and Trailhead is a good starting point, next to the Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory along Mt Hopkins Road in Amado. There are restrooms and parking, as well as nice picnic tables. The Observatory is temporary closed until further notice.
Further down Mt Hopkins Road it is possible to pull off to the side of the road by the Amateur Astronomers Viewing Pad. There is also a mountain bike trail that is suitable for walking although very rocky.
Site Information
Region: Tucson and Southern
County: Santa Cruz
Directions: Exit 56 toward Canoa Rd. Follow navigation to Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory (Elephant Head Rd to Mt Hopkins Rd).
Latitude: 31.671988
Longitude: -110.941688
Operational Hours:
Admission or Fees: None
Best time to visit: Spring and Fall best to catch migrating birds.
Habitats: Desert, Grassland
Know Before You Go
Very good restrooms and picnic area. There is a short nature trail at the picnic area.
Safety First! Arizona has many beautiful places to explore and we’d like to help you make it a safe and enjoyable experience. Check out our recommendations for hiking precautions.
Species Highlights
Rare: Black-capped Gnatcatcher, Five-striped Sparrow
Speciality: Abert’s Towhee, Arizona Woodpecker, Canyon Wren
Charismatic: Phainopepla
Contact Information
Coronado National Forest - Nogales Ranger District
USDA - Forest Service
300 W Congress Street
Tucson, AZ 85701
Phone: 520-388-8300
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coronado/recarea/?recid=25782
Additional Resources
Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/hotspot/L22074763
Additional Resources:
Picnic area has very good restrooms and short nature trail.
