Hikes in Tucson
Activities in Tucson
Too often underrated by Arizona’s hiking enthusiasts, Tucson can’t be looked over when planning an adventure to the Grand Canyon State. The city known for its college culture and excellent food has a secret: it’s got hundreds of hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails to explore. With five mountain ranges in reach, it’s hard to know where to start. The good news is you won’t need to go far with so many quality trails within city limits, and you won’t struggle to find the right trail for you with a generous range of difficulty levels available.
Wherever your adventures in Tucson take you, a few things will remain constant: the heat of the desert, the unique beauty of its ecosystem, and the never-ending saguaros that guide your way. Whether you’re exploring Tucson’s trails on two feet or otherwise, read on to see some of the top trails in and around the city.
15 Incredible Hikes in Tucson
Ready to start exploring? We’re making it easy to get going with 15 of our favorite hikes in Tucson. Our list includes short, easy trails, challenging treks, and everything in between. Work your way through as many as you can on the weekends or make the most of your downtime while visiting the city–you’ll want to keep exploring once you get a glimpse of those desert vistas.
Our top hikes in Tucson are chosen to show off the quintessential desert scenery the city is known for. The good news is, this isn’t Sedona or the Grand Canyon. You’ll have some room to breathe, even on busy routes. While starting with these 15 hikes is a great way to get acquainted with Tucson’s hiking scene, remember that we’ve got plenty more route guides to keep you adventuring.
- Tumamoc Hill - Tumamoc Hill is one of the most popular hikes in Tucson thanks to its great city views and relatively short length. The route is paved, which is a plus for hikers who prefer or require even footing. Because Tumamoc Hill is on university property, it’s the only hike in the Tucson Mountain Range that is open for night hiking. If you want to watch the sunset or sunrise, this is the place to be!
- Tanque Verde Falls - Tanque Verde Falls Trail is a popular hike near Tucson that climbs up the Tanque Verde Wash to an awesome 80-foot waterfall. Along the way, you can take advantage of other small waterfalls and swimming holes to cool off. Most of this trail is quite easy and kid-friendly.
- Bear Canyon to Seven Falls Trail - Bear Canyon to Seven Falls Trail is a real gem. This trail is located at the base of Thimble Peak in the Pusch Ridge Wilderness on the northeast edge of Tucson. It’s excellent for its ease of access from the city and for its diverse, beautiful terrain. You’ll hike next to towering saguaros and prickly pears, witness the area’s astounding bird population fly by, and end your hike at the Broadmoor Seven Falls.
- Sweetwater Wetlands Loop - The Sweetwater Wetlands Loop leads you a short distance around one of the most important functional, environmental, and educational sites of the City of Tucson’s reclaimed water system. This loop covers a quick 1-mile section. Around 305 m of the wetland pathways are paved and ADA-approved for wheelchair users.
- Sabino Tram Road - The Sabino Tram Road is one of the most popular hikes in the Tucson area. It’s conveniently accessible from the northeastern edge of the city near the Pusch Ridge Wilderness. The scenery is excellent, the trail is fairly easy, and there’s an option to take the tram along the road instead of hiking if you want a learning experience. The tram ride is narrated and very educational.
- Sentinel Peak - The Sentinel Peak hike near Tucson is a quick win, offering panoramic views of Tucson and the surrounding mountains on an easy 2.7 km loop. This hike is ideal if you want a quick leg-stretcher, are taking the kids out, or if you want some time outside but can’t go far or be gone for too long. The elevation gain is mostly gentle and the route is paved and easy to follow.
- Blackett’s Ridge Trail from Bear Canyon - Blackett's Ridge Trail from Bear Canyon is one of the most beautiful hikes in the Tucson area. The scenery is excellent, the trail is adventurous and challenging, and it doesn’t usually get too busy on this route. This route travels along Blackett’s Ridge to the top of Saddleback, where tall saguaros and big prickly pears line your path.
- Hutch’s Pool - Hutch's Pool is a popular spot tucked away in the Santa Catalina Mountains near Tucson. The route there travels through the Sabino Canyon in the Sabino Canyon Recreation Area, known for its rugged desert beauty and plentiful wildlife. This is a rewarding trip that ends at a great swimming hole.
- Bridal Wreath Falls Trail - Bridal Wreath Falls Trail is often described as worth all the effort required by users, because it does require some effort. Some will find this route challenging, others will feel comfortable with its steady incline, but no matter where you fall on that spectrum, you’ll likely want to revisit this beautiful trail in the future.
- Bobcat Ridge and Starr Pass - Bobcat Ridge and Starr Pass are two impressive routes combined into one spectacular hike in this approach. In a trail-dense area close to Tucson, this hike gets you out of the city without requiring you to go very far. The views are excellent, mostly featuring the saguaro-dotted rocky hills nearby, the mountains in the distance, and the city reaching out beside you.
- Chiva Falls Trail - Chiva Falls Trail is a mixed-use route just outside of Tucson that travels through the desert to Chiva Falls, a waterfall tucked into the rock of a canyon. This route is commonly used by hikers, mountain bikers, and off-roaders. After a good rain, the falls are definitely worth the hot hike in.
- Valley View Overlook Trail - The Valley View Overlook Trail is a quick and easy route in Saguaro National Park West that is lined with gorgeous tall cactus and rolling desert hills. This route is great for families with young kids or beginner hikers who want to get out and enjoy the outdoors on a simple, forgiving trail.
- Douglas Spring, Bridal Wreath Falls, and Garwood Loop - The Douglas Spring, Bridal Wreath Falls, and Garwood Loop is one of our favorite loops in Saguaro National Park East. The main attraction on this loop is Bridal Wreath Falls. Some will find this route challenging, others will feel comfortable with its sections of steady incline, but no matter where you fall on that spectrum, you’ll likely want to revisit this beautiful trail again in the future.
- Catalina Canyon Loop - The Catalina Canyon Loop is a wonderful hike in Catalina State Park, which sits at the north end of the Pusch Ridge Wilderness north of Tucson. This hike is dog-friendly and it explores the area around the Sutherland Wash. There are lots of chances to cool your feet off on this family-friendly adventure.
- Mount Kimball via Finger Rock Trail - Mount Kimball is no small objective, but it is one of the most accessible major summits in the Catalinas, and it’s easy to get to from Tucson. This is a hike that’ll leave you feeling very accomplished when you reach the top, especially since a fair share of the hikers who start this route won’t finish. That’s part of the appeal of this hike, though–you can turn around part way and still be rewarded with great views.
Scroll down to see the full list of hiking trails in Tucson.
When is the Best Time to Hike in Tucson
You’ll see a common theme when it comes to timing your outdoor adventures in Tucson: it’s hot. With temperatures averaging well above 30°C (86°F) from May through October, you’ll generally want to stay inside in the comfort of your air conditioning until mid-October hits.
While hiking in hotter temperatures might not sound so bad to some, we always caution against summer hiking in Tucson due to the prevalence of heatstroke on the trails. It’s exceptionally dry in the desert, so dehydration is a real risk, and you don’t want to be 10km into a trail when you realize you’ve run out of water.
Peak hiking season runs from mid-October through the end of April, with winter being a perfectly fine time to tackle even the sweatiest trails as average temperatures hover at a much more comfortable 20°C (68°F). Some of the higher elevation trails in the Tucson area see snow and ice between December and February, but this generally won’t impede your adventures on all but the highest hiking trails.
As a rule of thumb, most hikes should be comfortable to complete between October and May, but you’ll always want to pack more water than you think you’ll need, sun protection, and layers.
Other Outdoor Activities in Tucson
While the trails are excellent, hiking is certainly not the only way to explore Tucson! This region boasts plenty of space for other outdoor activities.
Adventurers on two wheels can take advantage of the many mountain bike and dirt bike paths. Those with four-legged friends can explore horse and dog-friendly trails. Campers can set up their tents in sites near the city, with some of the closest being in Saguaro National Park. Birders and plant lovers will be spoiled with the fascinating variety of species that call the desert home.
How to Plan a Trip to Tucson
Planning a trip to Tucson is pleasantly less high-pressure than planning trips to some of Arizona’s other outdoor destinations. You won’t find long lines of cars vying for trailhead parking here, nor will you be strapped for places to stay.
Tucson has plenty of accommodation options, from hotels in each corner of the city to short and long-term vacation rentals. If you’re wanting to prioritize hiking, we suggest staying in the eastern and northeastern parts of the city to have easy access to Saguaro National Park East, Catalina State Park, and the Pusch Ridge Wilderness.
Renting a car will make getting around the city as easy as possible, especially since Tucson lacks a well-developed transit system. Trailhead parking is normally easy to find, save for the busiest weekends.
The main parks and recreation areas near Tucson charge modest day-use fees. Budget $5-10 per day per park. We suggest organizing your hiking days by park to make the most of your entrance fees.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Tucson
What is Tucson known for?
Tucson is a designated UNESCO City of Gastronomy. It’s also known for its nightlife thanks to the presence of the University of Arizona. It may be a college and foodie town at heart, but it’s also recognized as a year-round outdoor adventure destination because of its statement saguaros and nearby mountain ranges.
Is Tucson hotter than Phoenix?
Tucson is cooler than Phoenix, with an average temperature of 70.9°F compared to Phoenix’s 75.1°F.
Does it snow in Tucson?
Tucson averages 0 inches of snow per year. The only snow you’ll find in Tucson is on the highest mountain peaks in the middle of winter.
What do you call a person from Tucson?
The correct demonym for someone from Tucson is a Tucsonan, but you’ll hear Tucsonian as well.
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Route guides for Hiking in Tucson
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Tumamoc Hill Hike Route Guide
Tumamoc Hill is one of the most popular hikes in Tucson thanks to its great city views, relatively short length, and night hiking opportunities. The route is paved, which is a plus for hikers who prefer or require even footing. Because Tumamoc Hill is on university property, it’s the only hike in the Tucson Mountain Range that is open for night hiking. If you want to watch the sunset or sunrise, this is the place to be!
The route is 3.1mi long, but some hikers turn around at the midpoint instead of going the entire way. Expect a 5ft paved route with plenty of signage. Some parts of the trail are steep, which could make using a stroller or wheelchair very difficult without some assistance. Overall we rate this trail as moderately difficult. If you come in hot weather, please ensure you’ve got lots of hydration and some sun protection with you.
Tanque Verde Falls Trail Route Guide
Tanque Verde Falls Trail is a popular hike near Tucson that climbs up the Tanque Verde Wash to an 80-foot waterfall. Along the way, you can take advantage of other small waterfalls and swimming holes. Most of this trail is quite easy and kid-friendly. Near the end, there’s some climbing over boulders required to reach the waterfall directly. Those unable to climb or those with young kids can skip the end of the hike in favor of a picnic at one of the smaller pools on the way.
As with all hikes in the Arizona desert, some months of the year may be too hot to safely adventure outside. Bring plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and head home if you start to feel unwell or overheated. Starting early in the day can help you finish your hike before the heat of the day. Finally, avoid this hike if there’s a flash flood warning or heavy rain in the forecast.
Bear Canyon to Seven Falls Trail Route Guide
Bear Canyon to Seven Falls Trail is a real gem. This 8.3mi moderately difficult trail is located at the base of Thimble Peak in the Pusch Ridge Wilderness on the northeast edge of Tucson. It’s excellent for its ease of access from the city and for its diverse, beautiful terrain. You’ll hike next to towering saguaros and prickly pears, witness the area’s astounding bird population fly by, and end your hike at the Broadmoor Seven Falls. At the falls, there is a series of gorgeous pools that can be used to cool off.
This canyon can reach scorching temperatures in the middle of the day. Start your hike early, bring plenty of water, and avoid hiking this route in the summertime if at all possible. Since this is such a popular hike, midweek visits are recommended if possible.
Sweetwater Wetlands Loop Route Guide
The Sweetwater Wetlands Loop leads you a short distance around one of the most important functional, environmental, and educational sites of the City of Tucson’s reclaimed water system. The Sweetwater Wetlands were constructed in 1996 to handle backwash water from the reclaimed water plant. Now, the site is a wetland that exclusively uses reclaimed water. The entire wetland has 2.5mi of trails, but this loop covers a quick 1.0mi section. Around 1000ft of the wetland pathways are paved and ADA-approved for wheelchair users.
This quick little nature walk is suitable for all ages and all skill levels. It’s flat, either paved or on 3.4-inch gravel, and easy to navigate. Note that dogs, horses, and bikes are not allowed in this area.
Sabino Tram Road Route Guide
The Sabino Tram Road through the Sabino Canyon is a stellar hike. This 7.4mi moderately difficult trail is located on the north side of Saddleback and Thimble Peak in the Pusch Ridge Wilderness on the northeast edge of Tucson. This hike is excellent for its ease of access from the city and for its diverse, beautiful terrain. You’ll hike next to towering saguaros and prickly pears, witness the area’s astounding bird population fly by, and be able to appreciate the scenic canyon.
This canyon can reach scorching temperatures in the middle of the day. Start your hike early, bring plenty of water, and avoid hiking this route in the summertime if at all possible. Since this is such a popular hike, midweek visits are recommended if possible.
Sentinel Peak Hike Route Guide
The Sentinel Peak hike near Tucson is a quick win, offering panoramic views of Tucson and the surrounding mountains on an easy 1.7mi loop. This hike is ideal if you want a quick leg-stretcher, are taking the kids out, or if you want some time outside but can’t go far or be gone for too long. The elevation gain is mostly gentle and the route is paved and easy to follow.
Sentinel Peak is a prominent landmark. It’s also known as “A” Mountain for its University of Arizona logo on the mountain, which was built by students in 1916. Most days, the mountain sees hundreds of hikers and bikers making their way up the road that encircles the mountain’s peak.
Blackett’s Ridge Trail from Bear Canyon Route Guide
Blackett's Ridge Trail from Bear Canyon is an awesome adventure. This 6.5mi difficult trail climbs up Saddleback in the Pusch Ridge Wilderness on the northeast edge of Tucson. This hike is excellent for its ease of access from the city and for its diverse, beautiful terrain. The city views and desert views are both excellent, and the Sabino Canyon Recreation Area is always a treat.
This ridge can reach scorching temperatures in the middle of the day. Start your hike early, bring plenty of water, and avoid hiking this route in the summertime if at all possible. Note that there are occasional closures on this route for bighorn sheep lambing season.
Blackett’s Ridge Trail Route Guide
Blackett's Ridge Trail is an excellent adventure near Tucson. This 5.7mi difficult trail climbs up Saddleback in the Pusch Ridge Wilderness on the northeast edge of Tucson. This hike is excellent for its ease of access from the city and for its diverse, interesting terrain. This version of the hike begins from the Sabino Canyon Recreation Area. You can also do Blackett’s Ridge Trail from Bear Canyon if you want to skip the paid parking and add a little bit of distance.
This ridge can reach scorching temperatures in the middle of the day. Start your hike early, bring plenty of water, and avoid hiking this route in the summertime if at all possible. Note that there are occasional closures on this route for bighorn sheep lambing season.
Hutch’s Pool Hike Route Guide
Hutch's Pool is a popular spot tucked away in the Santa Catalina Mountains near Tucson. The route there travels through the Sabino Canyon in the Sabino Canyon Recreation Area, known for its rugged desert beauty and plentiful wildlife. This is a rewarding trip that ends at a great swimming hole. While it can be done in a day, we recommend splitting this one up over two days and spending a night on the trail. If you plan to do it in a day, get a very early start and don’t hike in the scorching summertime.
You’ll be able to filter water from the river, but water levels vary depending on the time of year you choose to visit. Bring plenty of hydration with you and wear sun protection.
Hutch’s Pool via West Fork Sabino Trail Route Guide
Hutch's Pool is a popular swimming and camping spot tucked away in the Santa Catalina Mountains near Tucson. The usual route there travels through the Sabino Canyon in the Sabino Canyon Recreation Area, known for its rugged desert beauty and plentiful wildlife. This guide details the hike to Hutch’s Pool starting and ending at the West fork Sabino Trail. We recommend using this route if you’re taking the tram through the Sabino Canyon or already out on West Fork Sabino Trail. If you’re not taking the tram and need guidance from the recreation area, check out our Hutch’s Pool Hike guide.
This is a rewarding trip that ends at a great swimming hole. You’ll be able to filter water from the river, but water levels vary depending on the time of year you choose to visit. Bring plenty of hydration with you and wear sun protection.
Seven Falls via Bear Canyon Road Route Guide
Seven Falls is a beautiful waterfall tucked into Bear Canyon in the Sabino Canyon Recreation Area. This 6.8mi moderately difficult trail is located at the base of Thimble Peak in the Pusch Ridge Wilderness on the northeast edge of Tucson. With waterfalls, countless bird species, and more cacti than you could count lining your path, this is a fantastic area to hike in.
This canyon can reach scorching temperatures in the middle of the day. Start your hike early, bring plenty of water, and avoid hiking this route in the summertime if at all possible. Since this is such a popular hike, midweek visits are recommended if possible. Note that this route begins from Bear Canyon Road, where there isn’t a parking fee. If you want to start this hike from the Sabino Canyon Recreation Area instead, check out our Bear Canyon to Seven Falls Trail guide.
Bridal Wreath Falls Trail Route Guide
Bridal Wreath Falls Trail is a moderately difficult 5.7mi hike in the north end of Saguaro National Park East. This route heads uphill through the rugged desert to a delicate cascading waterfall. If you can time this hike to hit the falls when they’re running (early spring and post-monsoon tend to be best for this). The route to the falls is consistently uphill on rocky mountain steps. While it won’t feel that challenging for fit hikers, beginners or younger hikers might find this trail to be on the difficult side of moderate. Bring plenty of water, consider bringing poles, and get your hike in before the heat of the day hits.
Bobcat Ridge and Starr Pass Hike Route Guide
Bobcat Ridge and Starr Pass is a great scenic hike near Tucson. This route is 4.1mi long and has some fun rocky sections and steep ledges with wide-open views. It might not be the best choice for those who are afraid of heights, but you’ve got enough room to maneuver that most should still feel comfortable on this route. You’ll look out at the tall saguaros, the mountains on the horizon, and Tucson beside you. This hike doesn’t get too busy, so it’s a good bet any time of the week.
Bring lots of water for this hike as there’s no shade. We also like to pack a picnic and take a seat near (not at the end of) the ledge to have lunch with a view.
Chiva Falls Trail Route Guide
Chiva Falls Trail is an 8.6mi hard hike near Tucson that is used by hikers and off-road drivers. The trail leads through the desert to a lovely waterfall. If you like to spot wildlife, this is a great trail! Users report seeing snakes, lizards, tarantulas, and more. Since the entire hike is out in the sun with no shade, it’s important that you bring more water than you think you’ll need and wear sun protection. We don’t recommend this during the heat of the day.
Since traffic is shared on this route, we recommend keeping open ears as you hike.
Additionally, dogs should be kept on leash to keep them safe in the presence of mountain bikes and ATV and vehicle traffic. Try to plan this hike in the spring or after heavy rain to see the falls in action. While this is a hiking guide, drivers should know that this route is only recommended for experienced off-roaders.
Valley View Overlook Trail Route Guide
The Valley View Overlook Trail is a quick and easy route in Saguaro National Park West lined with gorgeous tall cactus and rolling desert hills. This route is great for families with young kids or beginner hikers who want to get out and enjoy the outdoors on a simple, forgiving trail. Saguaro National Park West is known for its amazing saguaros and relaxed hiking trails, so this is a great way to introduce yourself to the park and enjoy its scenery.
While this is a short trail, you’ll still want to bring water for the hike. It can get very hot on this route, so sunscreen and a hat are also good ideas.
Black Rock Loop Trail Route Guide
As much as rugged adventures can be fun, sometimes an easy breezy trail with great marking and maintenance is the way to go. The Black Rock Loop Trail travels through the panhandle of Sweetwater Preserve, and is ideal for hikers who want to go on autopilot and just enjoy the view. This is an easy trail and it’s perfect for families or solo hikers who want a reliable, simple trail. Expect heavy traffic.
Recoil Peak via Mosaic Trail Route Guide
Sometimes an easy viewpoint is all you want, and the hike to Recoil Peak on Mosaic Trail gives you a nice vantage point on a quick, easy trail. This hike is very easy to get to in Tucson and it’s long enough to take in the scenery while being easy enough for all ages and skill levels. There are also connecting trails that make it easy to extend your hike if you want more. This route gets hot in the afternoon, so try it as a morning or evening adventure and bring lots of water.
Desperado Loop Route Guide
When it comes to relaxing, easy trails, the Desperado Loop is one we consider a bit of a hidden gem. This loop is very laid-back, but it’s more scenic than you may expect. Used by hikers of all ages and skill levels as well as beginner mountain bikers, it makes for a lovely day out in nature with no challenges to consider. The route-finding is very easy and you can lengthen or shorten your hike using the connecting trails. Expect heavy traffic on this trail.
Romero Ruins Hike Route Guide
The Romero Ruins are the remnants of a prehistoric walled city, and you can check them out on a very short trail in Tucson’s Catalina State Park. There are informative signs near the ruins that educate you about their history, and the trail to the ruins boasts impressively large saguaros. All in all, this is a fascinating hike that’s easy enough for all ages and skill levels.
Maiden Pools Hike Route Guide
The hike to the Maiden Pools is a bit of a lesser-known gem in Tucson. This challenging trail climbs a saguaro-studded canyon in the Pusch Ridge Wilderness for dramatic views. When the water is flowing, you’ll be following a trickling river to a set of pools, some too deep to see the bottom of and some shallow enough to cool off in. This route requires some light scrambling. Expect moderate to heavy traffic.
Gould Mine Hike Route Guide
The Gould Mine hike might not have gold to find (it does have an old mine), but it does have lots of the characteristic saguaros that Saguaro National Park is known for. This is a good pick if you want a shorter hike that’ll still get your heart rate up. With a decent bit of elevation gain included, it’s more of a moderate hike despite being less than two and a half miles long. Expect heavy traffic on this route.
Maeveen Behan Trail Route Guide
If you’re in the northern reaches of Tucson, Maeveen Behan Trail is a great pick for an easygoing nature walk. The trail is on the Crooked Tree Golf Course grounds, and it’s a pleasant area to take the dogs for a stroll or to get out with family. The loop is flat and there are some offshoots that would allow you to lengthen or shorten it if desired. This trail doesn’t tend to be too busy.
Yetman and 5th Avenue Trail Route Guide
The Yetman and 5th Avenue Trail hike makes use of two of the main routes in Tucson Mountain Park, offering a scenic adventure in nature on a moderately difficult trail. This route is well marked and offers the chance to see some local wildlife (including rattlesnakes, so be careful!). Wear sturdy boots for this rocky trail and watch for mountain bikers.
Mica View to Cactus Forest Loop Route Guide
The Mica View to Cactus Forest Loop is an easy hike in Saguaro National Park East in Tucson. This hike is ideal for beginners, families, and hikers seeking a relaxed stroll in nature. You’ll have the mountain and desert views that the park is known for on a route that’s gently undulating and easy to follow. Your route is packed with prickly pears and saguaros to admire as you go. Bring water with you!
Slingshot Trail and Mosaic Trail Loop Route Guide
Looking for beginner-friendly or kid-friendly hikes in the city? The Slingshot Trail and Mosaic Trail Loop is a great option. This hike is very easy to get to in Tucson and it’s long enough to take in the scenery while being easy enough for all ages and skill levels. You’ll hike between Bactrian Summit and Recoil Peak, admiring the plentiful cacti in this area. This route gets hot in the afternoon, so try it as a morning or evening adventure and bring lots of water.
Linda Vista Short Loop Route Guide
The Linda Vista Short Loop is a short route in Tucsons’ Pusch Ridge Wilderness. This hike is very quick and it’s easy to reach from Oro Valley and northeastern Tucson. It provides a great break in nature without requiring too much effort. Additionally, this route is easy enough for beginners and hikers of most ages. The terrain is varied and interesting with a few great photo ops along the way. The views of the city and of the Tortolitas, in particular, are quite enjoyable.
Mount Lemmon, Wilderness of Rocks, and Aspen Loop Route Guide
The Mount Lemmon, Wilderness of Rocks, and Aspen Loop is a rugged, adventurous hike near Summerhaven that we recommend for strong hikers who don’t mind a bit of a challenge. This route starts at Mount Lemmon for unbelievable views, but you’ll be dealing with some bugs and potential stream crossings along the way. It’s a full-day adventure! Expect light traffic.
Mount Kimball via Pima Canyon Trail Route Guide
Reach the top of Mount Kimball via Pima Canyon using this route guide. This route leads you through a canyon with impressive riparian habitats and rich biodiversity. Hiking through the canyon underneath the Pusch Ridge, the views get better and better as you climb. With a final push to the top, you’ll have a great viewpoint. Since this hike sees so much traffic through such a sensitive natural area, please remember to leave no trace. Stay on the marked trails, take your trash with you, leave dogs at home, and appreciate wildlife from afar.
Saguaro Vista Loop Route Guide
The Saguaro Vista Loop shows off the stunning sky-high saguaros in Tucson’s Sweetwater Preserve on a beginner and kid-friendly trail. Some of the cacti are staggeringly tall, and the mountains in the distance add to its charm. There are some sections of the route that have loose rocks, but otherwise, it’s a fairly straightforward adventure that we’d recommend for anyone.
Sabino to Phoneline Loop Route Guide
The Sabino to Phoneline Loop leads you through the Sabino Canyon on both sides. The Sabino Canyon is known for its natural beauty and biodiversity. This moderately difficult trail is awesome for its ease of access from the city and for its diverse, beautiful terrain. You’ll hike next to towering saguaros and prickly pears and can look for birds, javelina, and bighorn sheep. Expect heavy traffic.
Bunny Loop Route Guide
The Bunny Loop is a 4.7mi easy hiking and mountain biking trail south of Tucson. This route is flat and relaxed, with mostly scrubby bush, cholla, and mountains in the distance to see. While predominantly used by mountain bikers, hikers are welcome, just remember to share the trail and look out for one another. You’ll need a permit to use this trail.
Ernie’s Falls Hike Route Guide
The Ernie's Falls hike is a moderate hike in Saguaro National Park East that leads you to a pretty waterfall, which will most reliably be running in the wintertime or after a monsoon. This route is used by hikers and horseback riders, and it shows off the rugged beauty of the park en route to the falls, which have a small pool you can dip your feet in if you wish. Dogs are not permitted on this trail. Expect heavy traffic.
Wild Dog Trail Route Guide
It’s probably impossible to pick a bad trail in the Saguaro Wilderness, but the Wild Dog Trail is a great choice for a few reasons. This 1.9mi can be finished in less than an hour for most groups, but it doesn’t skimp on the views. See the tall saguaros, the foothills, perhaps the local javelinas, and be back to the car in time to go about your day. This route is easy enough for all skill levels and sees light traffic.
Mosaic and Slingshot Loop Route Guide
Painted Hills Trail Park is one of our favorite destinations in Tucson for fast, accessible, scenic hikes, and the Mosaic and Slingshot Loop is no exception. This hike is very easy to get to in Tucson and it’s long enough to take in the scenery while being easy enough for all ages and skill levels. There are also connecting trails that make it easy to extend your hike if you want more. This route gets hot in the afternoon, so try it as a morning or evening adventure and bring lots of water.
Buster Mountain via Birding Trail Route Guide
Strong hikers looking for their next big adventure in Tucson can give Buster Mountain via Birding Trail a shot. This difficult hike requires a hefty bit of route-finding and there are a couple of interesting scrambling problems along the way. It’ll tire you out, but the view from the top is a treat with both the Pusch Ridge Wilderness and Catalina State Park in clear view. Expect light traffic and come prepared for a strenuous hike.
Cactus Canyon and Gila Monster Loop Route Guide
The Cactus Canyon and Gila Monster Loop is a 6.0mi hike in Tucson’s Saguaro National Park that puts the diverse flora and fauna of the desert on display. This route is moderately difficult and makes for a nice half-day adventure. You’ll want to bring a downloaded GPS track or trail map as the route can be unclear in some spots, but overall we consider this a route worth trying. Dogs are not permitted.
Dripping Spring via Sutherland Trail Route Guide
Starting off in Tucson’s lovely Catalina State Park, the hike to Dripping Springs on Sutherland Trail is a charming easy hike that leads you to a small waterfall and spring in the foothills of the Pusch Ridge Wilderness. This hike is easy, but it can get a bit overgrown from lack of use, so long pants may be recommended. Try to time your hike for when there’s been rain, which will give you the best experience at the spring. Dogs are not permitted on this route.
Bear Canyon Trail Route Guide
Bear Canyon Trail is one of the main routes in Tucson’s Sabino Canyon Recreation Area. The entire trail is almost 16.0mi long, but most hikers on the route will turn around at Seven Falls. If you’re just bound for the falls, use our Bear Canyon Trail to Seven Falls Guide. This guide details the entire length of Bear Canyon Trail. It’s excellent for its ease of access from the city and for its diverse, beautiful terrain. It’s a longer trek, but it’s worth doing to experience the scenery throughout the entire canyon. Dogs are not permitted on this route.
Cactus Forest, Squeeze Pen, and Pink Hill Loop Route Guide
The Cactus Forest, Squeeze Pen, and Pink Hill Loop is an easy trail in Tucson’s Saguaro National Park East. This route mostly has pretty desert vegetation to appreciate, so the beauty is more in the small things than in big, impressive views on this one. Try to time it for when the creosote is blooming for the best experience. This route generally sees moderate to heavy traffic.
Shantz, Cholla, and Cactus Forest Loop Route Guide
The Shantz, Cholla, and Cactus Forest Loop is an easy trail in Tucson’s Saguaro National Park East. The star of this route is the varied desert vegetation along the trail, so the beauty is more in the small things than in big, impressive views on this adventure. Try to time your visit for when the creosote is blooming for the best experience. This route generally sees moderate traffic.
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