Since we just 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, AZ 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!
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 as you can!
Also, 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
This is a 3 mile round trip hike located 10 minutes outside of downtown! It’s a paved road up the Tumamoc hill that overlooks the city of Tucson. It is a steep mile and a half up but the views are 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 and stay to enjoy the views at the top!
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 hike gets tougher as you get higher but the views make the hike worth it! You can get more insight on the hike here!
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 time 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 the perfect hike for anyone of all ages! You can learn more about parking, hours of operation, location, and activities 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 along the trail. The best part of this hike is that it leads to an 80 ft 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
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. Most of the water crossings are located within the first half mile of the hike.
You can either hike the full 8 miles or cut the hike in half by taking the tram. 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 view 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! So make sure to look all around you to see the multiple beauties that this hike has to offer!
Sabino Lake Loop
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.
I hope that this guide 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 out and experience the beauty of the desert nature!
Thanks!