Palo Verde Trail #512

The south end of the trail begins near the northern edge of the Rattlesnake Cove Recreation Site. The trail roughly parallels the shoreline of Bartlett Reservoir, providing access to the shore, crossing washes and small ridges, and running along hill slopes. From Rattlesnake Cove Trailhead to SB Cove is 3.8 mi. A 1.2 mi. loop-trail intersects the main trail at two locations: about 0.5 mi. south of SB Cove and again at 0.8 mi. south of SB Cove.

Attractions:

• Palo Verde Trail offers access to many coves and stretches of shoreline, providing opportunities for swimming and angling. The trail winds through rocky outcrops and crosses several ridges and hill slopes offering scenic views of Bartlett Reservoir.
• This trail passes through the Arizona Upland Phase of the Sonoran Desert, featuring saguaro cactus, mesquite, palo verde and ironwood trees.
• Bartlett Reservoir has been popular with anglers almost since the dam was constructed in 1939. Fish species include crappie, large- and smallmouth bass, channel and flathead catfish, carp, bluegill and green sunfish.
• Along with many partners, the USDA Forest Service is improving fish habitat by installing a variety of structures in strategic locations.