King Canyon Petroglyph Hike
The King Canyon Petroglyph Hike is an easy, heavily trafficked trail in Saguaro National Park West near Tucson. On this route, you’ll hike through a collection of prickly pear, ocotillo, and saguaros en route to petroglyphs. This is a very rewarding hike that’s generally suitable for active kids and strong beginners. If you’re having trouble locating the petroglyphs, look for a park ranger to point them out to you.
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Route Description for King Canyon Petroglyph Hike
The hike along King Canyon Trail is an interesting trip with a unique historical find to discover on the way. This route takes you to a site with petroglyphs, and you can also take a breather at the Mam-a-Gah Picnic Area to make an afternoon out of it. This hike is easy enough for families and beginners. Strong hikers can continue up to Wasson Peak.
Dogs are not permitted on this route whether leashed or not. There is a modest day-use fee required for the park and for this trail. Remember to pack water and consider sun protection.
The parking area is off N Kinney Road. It does fill up in busier months, so try to arrive early if you can. There are no restrooms and no water at the trailhead. From the parking lot, take the obvious wide path. There is a split just a few steps in where you’ll stay right onto King Canyon Trail. Continue through the gate about 200 feet in. The route is rocky, so you’ll be glad if you wore good boots. 0.6 miles in, take in the view of the canyon from a ledge on the trail. To get to the petroglyphs, go down into the wash and take a left to hike into the foothills.
When you’re ready, use the same route to get back to the trailhead.
Getting to the King Canyon Petroglyph Hike Trailhead
The trailhead for the King Canyon Petroglyph hike is off Kinney Road.
Route Information
King Canyon Petroglyph Hike Elevation Graph
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Nearby Trails
- Hugh Norris, Sendero Esperanza, and Dobbie Wash Loop
- Cactus Canyon and Gila Monster Loop
- Wild Dog Trail
- Gould Mine Hike
- Sendero Esperanza Trail
- Thunderbird Trail
- Gates Pass to Golden Gate Loop
- Signal Hill Trail
- Wasson Peak via Sweetwater Trail
- Wasson Peak via King Canyon Trail
- Brown Mountain Trail
- Valley View Overlook Trail