Coronado National Forest Expansion at Charouleau Gap

Just two miles off Arizona’s State Highway 77, between the fast‑growing metro areas of Tucson and Phoenix, lies the rugged gateway known as Charouleau Gap. Here, a stunning 695‑acre landscape unfolds with rolling foothills, sweeping desert vistas, and a natural passageway leading toward the iconic Santa Catalina Mountains within the Coronado National Forest. Long held in private ownership and at risk of development, this land was permanently protected in 2026, opening a long‑awaited door to public lands that were previously out of reach.

Charouleau Gap sits at the heart of a critical wildlife corridor, one that supports species movement and resilience in the face of encroaching development and increasingly frequent wildfires. With this conservation effort, land managers and first responders will now have safer, more reliable access to these surrounding forestlands—an essential advantage during wildfire season.

But the impact extends far beyond stewardship. This newly accessible property will offer millions of nearby residents and visitors the chance to meaningfully connect with the outdoors. Expansive opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, hunting, and exploration will now be available in areas that were once closed off, allowing more people to experience the beauty and biodiversity of the Coronado National Forest.

This acquisition also marks a major milestone: it represents one of the largest remaining pieces of private land within the Coronado National Forest to transition into public ownership. It builds upon TPL’s recent momentum at Cross F Ranch, which expanded public access to more than 30,000 acres of forestland. Together, these efforts increase recreation access, protect habitat, and ensure that Arizona’s remarkable natural landscapes remain open, resilient, and thriving for generations to come.