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    Hikes/United States/Arizona/Tucson

    Painted Hills Loop

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Easy
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    1.5-2h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    6.0 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    105 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    Directions to Trailhead
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    If you’re looking for a relaxed beginner hike that you don’t need to venture far for, the Painted Hills Loop could be the perfect one. This hike is very easy to get to from Tucson and it’s long enough to take in the scenery while being easy enough for all ages and skill levels. There are several connecting trails in this area that make it simple to extend your hike if you want more. The Painted Hills Loop gets hot in the afternoon, so try it as a morning or evening adventure and bring lots of water.

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    Route Description for Painted Hills Loop

    The Painted Hills Loop is an awesome trail for its ease of access in Tucson and its easy nature. This hike is long enough to let you enjoy being outside, but it’s easy enough for beginners, kids, and most others to enjoy. There are connecting trails in this park that allow you to keep hiking longer if you’d like, or you can turn back early if you’re seeking a super quick adventure.

    There are no restrooms at the trailhead, so come prepared. Bring water, wear sun protection, and try to plan your hike for any time outside the heat of the day.

    The hike begins at the Painted Hills Trailhead. Take Mosaic Trail to a Y-junction, where you’ll stay right. Hike between two short peaks and then around the northern side of Bactrian Summit. Follow the route as it curves southwest between Recoil Peak and Bactrian Summit. At the 5-way junction, take the second trail on the right to head up the side of Recoil Peak before looping back to the east to descend near the south side of Bactrian Summit. This route will lead you back to the trailhead.

    Getting to the Painted Hills Loop Trailhead

    The trailhead for the Painted Hills Loop is off W Anklam Road.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      October-May

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      Yes

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Low

    • Route Type

      Loop

    Painted Hills Loop Elevation Graph

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    Painted Hills Loop Reviews

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