Since we moved to Tucson, I have been trying my best to discover all that the city of Tucson, AZ has to offer! We are very outdoorsy people and love to hike. So, we have been making a list of the best hikes in Tucson.
Tucson has been one of the best surprises for us. Between the incredible weather (aside from the summer months) to the trails and hikes that they have around the city, Tucson is an incredible stop for someone who loves the outdoors. Although located in the desert, this city has some amazing hikes surrounded by streams and waterfalls. Below I have listed some of the best hikes that Tucson has to offer!
If you are new to Tucson or are visiting the city, there are so many things that the city has to offer alongside the hikes! You can check out my guide on the best coffee shops, shopping areas and even the best happy hours!
Disclaimers
Please note that all of these hikes require physical activity and one should always be prepared. Hikers should always hike at their own risks and be prepared for wildlife, heat and weather. Please remember to bring and drink enough water. The dry heat causes people to become dehydrated without even realizing it so please always have water on hand!
Arizona is also known for its beautiful weather. However, it is also known for its unpredictable and often violent weather especially during monsoon season. Please check the forecast the morning of your hike to prepare as best you can.
Aslo, not all hikes require hiking gear but please make note of the hikes that are more difficult and longer. Make sure you are prepared and dressed correctly to accommodate the terrain along each trail.
Hikes in Tucson, AZ
Tumamoc Hill
One of the best hikes in Tucson to try when you first get here! This is a 3 mile round trip hike located 10 minutes outside of downtown Tucson! It’s a paved road up the Tumamoc hill that overlooks the city of Tucson. It is a steep mile and a half up and the views are very much worth it! It is perfect for a date night, afternoon with the family or a hike to take for an hour of exercise! This hike overall will take about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on how quickly you walk up the hill.
This is a great hike to take early in the morning to watch the sunrise or in the evening to watch the sunset. I have personally done this hike multiple times and it is incredible no matter when you do it. If you live in central Tucson or are visiting, I think that this would be a great hike to try!
Ventana Trail
This hike is 4/8 miles and is a pretty steep but beautiful hike! The hike gives you views of the canyon and walls and panorama views of Tucson throughout the trail. It follows a stream that is dry most of the year. However, during the monsoon seasons, you will find water filling the stream for a beautiful summer hike! The hikes gets tougher as you get higher but the views make the hike worth it. You can get more insight on the hike here!
Tanque Verde Falls
This 3 mile roundtrip hike is a moderately difficult hike located on the east side of Tucson, AZ. This is not a paved hike and there are many large rocks located long the trail. The best part of this hike is that it leads to an 80 foot waterfall at the top! There are other streams and bodies of water along the way but may not have water in them depending on the time of year. This hike overall will take you 2-4 hours depending on how quickly you hike and how long you stay at the waterfall at the end!
Seven Falls Trail
Another one of the best hikes in Tucson! This trail spans over the course of 8.2 miles and offers views to 7 different waterfalls along a moderately easy hike. It is important to note that the water levels will vary depending on the time of year. If you visit during monsoon season, it is very important to check the weather and water levels for the day that you will be visiting.
There are a few water crossings on the trail. Most are located within the first half mile of the hike. I will warn you, the trail can be difficult to follow at times. It’s not hard to find the trail but around the water crossings, it can be hard to know exactly where the trail is on the other side. Once you get past the water crossings, the trail is very easy to follow.
You can either hike the full 8 miles or cut the hike in half by taking the dram. The tram doesn’t take you to the top but does shorten the hike to about 4.5 miles round trip. The tram costs $4 so make sure to bring cash!
Pusch Peak
Pusch Peak is located on the northern side of Tucson and overlooks Oro Valley. This is a very steep and quick hike and the views are immaculate. This trail is a hidden gem and may not be as populated as the other trails. This trail is not for the faint of heart so if you are not an experienced hiker, I would recommend trying out one of the more populated and more moderate hikes. Once you make it to the top, you will get a 360 panoramic views of the city of Tucson and the metropolitan area of Oro Valley!
Blackett’s Ridge Trail
This difficult 6 mile hike is located in the popular Sabino Canyon. Along the trail you will see views of the Santa Catalina Mountains, Sabino and Bear Canyons, and downtown Tucson. This hike also gives you insight to the nature of Tucson. You get to see the beautiful saguaro cactus, blue and green lizards, and birds! You can learn more about the hike here!
Personally, I think this is one of the best hikes in Tucson! I recommend getting up early in the morning to have the best weather conditions and less foot traffic. This hike is so beautiful, especially as the sun rises and the weather is cooler. It is a wonderful way to start the day!
Sabino Lake Look
This two mile hike is a very easy hike around the Sabino Canyon in Tucson. This hike is perfect if you want to take it easy and experience the beauty of the nature around you without the strenuous hike. This hike is more family friendly than some of the other hikes listed. This area is also known for its amazing wildlife! While hiking, you will be able to see some of the beautiful cacti, unique bird species and desert wildlife.
Chuck Huckleberry Loop
“The Loop” offers a paved, car free trail over the course of 150 miles around the city of Tucson. This trail is perfect for runners, bikers, hikers and anyone wanting to spend times outdoors. There are numerous restaurants, shopping and entertainment centers, splash pads, hotels and more located along the trail. It is kid and pet friendly making it one of the best hikes in Tucson for all ages! You can learn more about parking, hours of operations, location, and activities here.
Closing the best hikes in Tucson
I hope that this guide of the best hikes in Tucson was helpful! There are so many hikes around the city of Tucson, AZ and these are just a few of them. Hopefully while you are here, you have a chance to try a few of the hikes and experience the beauty of the desert nature!
Thanks!