The 20 Best Hiking Trails in Tucson, Arizona
One of the best reasons to go hiking can be to enjoy all of the diversity nature has to offer. In fact, where I live, there are plenty of unique trails to explore and enjoy. So are there hiking trails Tucson AZ? Yes, and the vast array of diverse plants and animals in Tucson can be inspiring to nearly any hiker. Consider experiencing one or all of these hiking trails Tucson.
You might need a camera to take pictures of one of the best hiking trails Tucson called Seven Falls Trail
In the Sabino Canyon Recreational Area lies the beautiful Seven Falls Trail. You’ll start in the desert and then go up Bear Canyon where you’ll find a bunch of idyllic pools. Since the trail runs beside a stream, you’ll have to cross it a few times. The plants you’ll see include barrel cactus, saguaro, cottonwood trees, and buckhorn cholla.
Beware of the treacherous yet highly popular Blackett’s Ridge Trail
As the name might suggest (black sounds dark and scary to me), Blackett’s Ridge Trail is a challenge for many hikers. Despite the difficulty, this trail is quite popular. The only downside dog lovers might see is that no dogs are allowed here. But on the bright side, you won’t have to worry about Fido and his poor hiking abilities this time. It takes about over three and a half hours to finish. And since the trail’s well-liked, along the way, you’re likely to meet other people too.
If you’d rather have a moderate challenge, consider Tumamoc Hill
Most people view Tumamoc Hill as being moderately challenging. Besides this, if you want a short hike, you’ll only be on the route for over an hour and a half. Since Tumamoc Hill is popular, you’ll likely be able to see people as you explore. This is because many people take the opportunity to go for a walk, run, or hike. But once again, dogs aren’t allowed here so you’ll have to leave man’s best friend at home.
Valley View Overlook Trail is a short but gorgeous hike
One of the most beautiful hiking trails Tucson is Valley View Overlook Trail. Although the hike is only .8 miles from start to finish, it can be completely worth it for the scenery you’ll see. As you head down the trail, you’ll dip down into a wash and then travel uphill where there’s a lookout. There are breathtaking views of the mountains in the distance and the valley below. This can be an ideal place to go for a walk when the pear cacti and other plants are blooming.
Bring your favorite swimsuit for your hike through Romero Pools Trail
At the beginning, this trail is level, but then you’ll find yourself climbing amongst rocky terrain where the elevation is 1,000 feet. The fun part is that when it’s hot, you can take pleasure in going for a nice swim. Be sure to come around at the right time of year when there’s enough water to swim in.
Need an easy and scenic hike? Try Freeman Homestead Nature Trail!
The Freeman Homestead Nature trail is on a one-mile loop. The scenery is full of lush vegetation such as mesquite, ocotillos, large saguaros, prickly pear, and more. And you can view the distant mountains and valley. The rolling landscape can be dramatic. Afterward, you can make a turn for the Javelina picnic area which is nearby.
The falls are 80 feet at Tanque Verde Falls Trail
This trail is another moderately challenging route and it’s a little over two miles round trip. Tanque Verde Falls features water falling down 80 feet in front of a rock wall. Since the elevation is only around 100 feet, the walk is somewhat easy. But one indication that the falls will be running is if the wash towards the trail’s beginning has water in it.
Wildlife is abundant if you hike through Cactus Forest Trail
In the Cactus Forest Scenic Loop Drive runs the Cactus Forest Trail. In particular, you can see birds here. If you listen closely, you should be able to hear woodpeckers peeping and quail making noises. Desert vegetation such as saguaro and other plants are plentiful in this area.
Try conquering Mount Wrightson via Old Baldy Trail
The Mount Wrightson Trail climbs upward five miles and 4,000 vertical feet. This can be a tough trail to conquer, but if you actually reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views. Spring brings out delightful wildflowers while in the winter months you’ll likely witness some ice and snow because of the elevation. Remember to bring poles and micro spikes to make the going easier and money to pay the parking fee at the base.
Desert plants are bountiful on the Linda Vista Trail
If you’re planning a hike to see various desert plants, the Linda Vista Trail could be an outstanding option, especially when it comes to hiking trails Tucson. It’s a 2.2-mile loop trail that many find to be moderately challenging and it takes a little over an hour to finish. Further, it’s easy to reach this trail if you’re staying at the El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort since it’s down the road.
Sutherland Trail is a full 10.8 miles long
Although 10.8 miles can test one’s ability, it can be worth it to see the colorful blooming flowers in spring, birds, and large saguaros. But you don’t have to hike the entire trail to appreciate it. Some areas of the trail go upwards very steeply where you’ll have the opportunity to experience inspiring views amidst pine trees and mountains.
Hike through the Sonoran Desert on the Yetman Trail
This is another long trail since it’s a 12-mile hike. Depending on where you start, the elevation is only 500 to 700 feet. In addition, the landscape is filled with ocotillos, barrel cactus, saguaros, and other splendid vegetation. If you enjoy a bit of history, you can see the Bowen Homestead (aka “stone house”), which are ruins from the 1930s.
Bridal Wreath Falls is easy and for all ages
The leisurely walk down Bridal Wreath Falls gives you the chance to forgo complicated shoes for almost any you prefer. There’s plenty of greenery and you can enjoy a waterfall when you reach the end. You might need to wait to come after it rains if you want to see the falls flowing. From creosote and mesquite in a grassy field to barrel cacti and saguaros among the mountains, the scenery can make you genuinely grateful for nature. Despite the fact that the hike is moderately steep in some places, it’s still manageable.
Wasson Peak Trail could be a nice option for winter
Thick saguaro forests and grand desert vistas await you at Wasson Peak Trail. Since the elevation is low, hiking here during the summer isn’t a great idea. But you can experience how picturesque the Sonoran Desert is during the rest of the year, especially in the winter. To maximize your time, you can start out early after sunrise and appreciate the spectacular desert scenery and cacti that will surround you along the way.
Ventana Canyon Trail is rocky and challenging
The Ventana Canyon Trail is steep with plenty of climbing and it’s a challenge. This means you should come prepared with hiking poles and hiking shoes. There are lots of rocks to go through, but it’s generally known to be a nice hike. The broadening panorama and sheer canyon walls are a must-see when in Arizona. As you climb the canyon, the trail becomes more difficult. But you’ll be able to see what’s known as The Window and the base’s 100-foot drop before you reach it.
See the amazing petroglyphs on Signal Hill Trail
Large granodiorite boulders and gently sloping plains cover the area around Signal Hill. The hill rises 50 feet and you’ll have excellent views to enjoy. The main reason to take Signal Hill Trail could be to see the rocks with petroglyphs carved on them. There are dozens of them and they’re from the Hohokam period. Many believe the petroglyphs were created by hunters since they might have been hiding near the low hill here to watch for prey. No matter what, history aficionados might want to take a special trip just to see this area.
Seasonal pools and a waterfall make Douglas Spring Trail a great hike
Although Douglas Spring Trail is less popular than the Tanque Verde Ridge Trail, it still has a lot to offer for hikers. At Tanque Verde Ridge, you can see better views, but Douglas Spring has a waterfall and small streams that turn into seasonal pools. Similar to Tanque Verde Ridge, Douglas Spring Trail offers varied scenery and numerous plants such as wildflowers, cacti, sotol, ocotillo, and yucca. Above 5,000 feet is oak woodland. The most popular part is often the lowest few miles.
Find some solitude and reflect on King Canyon Trail
Sonoran desert wildlife, sandy washes, giant saguaros, and rocky trails characterize King Canyon Trail. This route can be an exceptional place to find solitude, which isn’t always easy on the more popular trails. You might want to bring a book to read and a healthy but delicious lunch. Mexican gold poppies, owl clover, and desert flora and fauna are alluring to behold. King Canyon trail is a jewel located in the Tuscon mountain ranges.
Get some exercise on the Agua Caliente Hill Trail
This is a 9-mile hike out and back and you can bring dogs or ride bikes. The Agua Caliente Hill Trail will take you to a high point between the Rincon and Santa Catalina mountains. While the first few miles are a good workout, the last part is challenging. This trail is nice in the winter since it has ice and snow. Remember to bring basic survival supplies and enough water, no matter the season. The views are amazing but it may be necessary to stop and take several breaks along the way. The giant cacti are particularly impressive.
A finger is a sign you’re on the right path to Finger Rock Trail
Finger Rock is the index finger making the #1 sign on the Pusch Ridge skyline. The formation marks Finger Rock Canyon and it’s 100 feet high. At first, the trail is easy, but then it becomes tougher as you go along. But the overlooks improve as the hiking becomes rougher. In the beginning, you’ll see saguaros, but as you climb you’ll reach a habitat of agave, live oak, yucca, and juniper. No dogs are allowed since the trail takes you to Pusch Ridge Desert Bighorn Sheep Management Area so be sure to plan for this.
Hiking Trails Tucson AZ Q & A:
Is the hiking good in Tucson?
Tucson is home to Saguaro National Park and five mountain ranges and this can be inspiring for any hiker to enjoy.
Is Tucson or Phoenix better for hiking?
According to Lawnstarter.com, Tucson is number two for hiking and this beats Phoenix, which comes in at number three. If you’d like to know, Portland, OR is in first place.
Are there many hiking trails Tucson AZ?
AllTrails reports that Tucson has 248 scenic hiking trails, but the city with the most hiking routes is actually Phoenix.
To sum up, I think experiencing the hiking trails Tucson could be a nice way to escape the city or just spend a day viewing the breathtaking scenery. But rather than take my word for it, you might want to experience these wonderful hiking trails yourself. Remember to bring a friend or spend the day exploring the area on your own if you’d like.
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