It’s the time of year when most of us are just itching to get out and explore Arizona’s natural beauty. Here’s one gorgeous hiking trail that offers beautiful wildflowers, majestic mountains and stunning views. It might just be the most underrated hike in the entire state!

The Santa Catalina mountains north of Tucson are beautiful throughout the year, but in the summer they offer a shady respite from the heat.
Laurence L./Tripadvisor
For this hike, you'll combine the Aspen Trail and the Marshall Gulch Trail to make a 3.7-mile loop.
traveltheworld012/Tripadvisor
Take the Catalina Highway about 26 miles. You'll find the trailhead at the Marshall Gulch Picnic Area.
The trail is rated moderate. It has an elevation climb of 879 feet, so you'll want to make sure you have plenty of water with you (and a couple snacks to keep your energy up).
peppergrasss/flickr
In spring and summer months, wildflowers line many parts of this little trail.
traveltheworld012/Tripadvisor
Jose Hinojos/alltrails
The views are just amazing - make sure to bring your camera to capture this scenery.
Gus Doherty/Alltrails

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Any time you're in the wilderness, it's smart to remember that you're a visitor and that the residents might be a little cranky if you run into them. Keep your dog on leash, and make a little noise as you hike - talk, sing, whistle a little tune. Most bears will move away when they hear you - long before you even know they're there.
Gus Doherty/Alltrails
Much of this trail is shaded, offering a pleasant respite from the summer heat.
C Finnell/Alltrails
C Finnell/Alltrails
Julia Jones/Alltrails
However, some of the trail has full sun exposure. Wear a hat and bring your sunscreen to stay comfortable.
Alexandra Chacara/Alltrails
Plan for this hike to take you several hours to complete. Get an early start for the coolest temperatures, and enjoy this gorgeous slice of Arizona wilderness.
Gus Doherty/Alltrails

Have you hiked the Aspen Trail & Marshall Gulch Loop Trail? Tell us about your adventure, and share your pics in the comments!

Looking for some more hikes under five miles? Take a look at these 12 hikes that everyone in Arizona should take.

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