Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just looking for a relaxing day outdoors, hiking in Tucson offers something for everyone.
With its vast desert landscapes, towering saguaros, and hidden waterfalls, Tucson is a treasure trove of hiking opportunities.
From easy, family-friendly strolls to challenging summit climbs, this guide to the best hiking trails in Tucson will help you find the perfect adventure. No matter your experience level, there’s a trail waiting for you!
3 Easy, Family-Friendly Hiking Trails in Tucson
If you’re new to hiking or want a relaxing day outdoors, Tucson has several easy trails that provide stunning views without requiring intense effort. These family-friendly hikes are perfect for beginners, children, and those looking to enjoy nature at a leisurely pace.
Honey Bee Canyon Trail
Distance: 2.3 miles (out and back)
Elevation: Minimal
Location: Oro Valley
Honey Bee Canyon is a lovely, easy hike through desert landscapes featuring petroglyphs and the Pusch Ridge Mountains. Perfect for a quick family outing with minimal elevation changes and scenic beauty.
Go early to avoid the heat as there’s little shade, and bring plenty of water.
Mica View Loop (Saguaro National Park East)
Distance: 3.7 miles (loop)
Elevation: Minimal
Location: Saguaro National Park East
Stroll through the iconic cactus forest in Saguaro National Park on this flat, scenic loop. With stunning mountain views and plenty of wildlife to spot, this easy trail is great for a relaxed desert experience.
Perfect for families, this loop offers multiple routes so you can shorten or extend your hike as needed.
Valley View Overlook Trail
Distance: 0.8 miles (out and back)
Elevation: 49 feet
Location: Saguaro National Park West
This short, simple trail provides panoramic desert views and takes you through a gorgeous landscape filled with towering saguaros. It’s the perfect trail for a quick, easy desert hike with amazing sunset views.
Visit around sunset for stunning lighting and cooler temperatures.
These easy trails are perfect for enjoying Tucson’s natural beauty without pushing your limits. You’ll leave with a sense of accomplishment, having experienced some of the best beginner hikes the city has to offer.
3 Moderate Hiking Trails in Tucson
If you’re ready to take it up a notch, Tucson’s moderate hiking trails offer a bit more of a challenge while still being accessible to most hikers. These trails are ideal for those who want a solid workout without taking on the most difficult terrain.
Romero Canyon Trail to Romero Pools
Distance: 5.5 miles (out and back)
Elevation: 1,000+ feet
Location: Catalina State Park
This popular trail takes you through the Catalina Mountains to the scenic Romero Pools, a perfect spot to cool off after a moderate climb. Enjoy desert views and rugged terrain with a rewarding dip at the end.
Wear water shoes if you plan to enjoy the pools, and check water levels before hiking, as they fluctuate throughout the year.
Seven Falls Trail (Bear Canyon)
Distance: 8.2 miles (out and back)
Elevation: Moderate
Location: Sabino Canyon Recreation Area
The Seven Falls Trail offers a blend of desert hiking and multiple creek crossings that lead to a stunning series of waterfalls. It’s a longer hike, but the scenery makes it worth every step.
Go during the spring or after a rainy season for the best waterfall views, and bring waterproof shoes for the creek crossings.
Yetman Trail
Distance: 12 miles (out and back)
Elevation: 500-700 feet
Location: Tucson Mountain Park
Explore the stunning desert scenery on this moderate trail that features the historic Bowen House ruins and a mix of cacti, saguaros, and other unique desert plants.
You can do a shorter version by hiking only to the Bowen House for a quicker out-and-back option.
These moderate trails offer just the right balance of challenge and enjoyment, giving you a full hiking experience with amazing desert views, natural water features, and historical sites.
2 Difficult Hiking Trails in Tucson
For those seeking a real challenge, Tucson’s difficult hiking trails provide steep climbs, rugged terrain, and spectacular views. These trails are for experienced hikers looking to push their endurance and take in some of the best views the desert has to offer.
Blackett’s Ridge Trail
Distance: 5.7 miles (out and back)
Elevation: 1,778 feet
Location: Sabino Canyon Recreation Area
With steep ascents and rocky terrain, this trail offers stunning views of the Sabino and Bear Canyons. It’s a tough hike, but the payoff is worth it when you reach the summit and take in the breathtaking vistas.
Start early in the day to avoid the midday heat, and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Hugh Norris Trail to Wasson Peak
Distance: 9.8 miles (out and back)
Elevation: 2,000 feet
Location: Saguaro National Park West
Climbing to the highest peak in the Tucson Mountains, this challenging trail rewards you with sweeping 360-degree views of the entire Tucson Basin. It’s one of the best strenuous hikes in Tucson for those up for the challenge.
Bring trekking poles to assist with the steep inclines, and pack plenty of snacks for energy.
These difficult trails are perfect for experienced hikers looking to push themselves while taking in some of the most rewarding views Tucson has to offer.
2 Expert Hiking Trails in Tucson
If you’re an expert hiker looking for the ultimate test, Tucson’s expert-level trails are ready to push you to your limits. These trails feature intense climbs, long distances, and jaw-dropping scenery.
Mount Wrightson via Old Baldy Trail
Distance: 10 miles (out and back)
Elevation: 4,000 feet
Location: Santa Rita Mountains
Climbing through multiple ecosystems, this challenging hike to Mount Wrightson offers expansive views at the summit. It’s a long, steep ascent that’s ideal for hikers seeking a tough workout and impressive scenery.
Bring extra layers and microspikes if hiking in winter, as snow and ice are common at higher elevations.
Ventana Canyon Trail to The Window
Distance: 12.3 miles (out and back)
Elevation: 1,290 feet
Location: Ventana Canyon
This tough trail takes you to “The Window,” a natural rock formation offering breathtaking views of the valley. The trail is rocky and difficult, but it’s worth it for experienced hikers seeking adventure.
Start early to beat the heat and bring a headlamp if you expect to finish after dark.
Expert hikers will love the challenge these trails provide, with some of the most stunning scenery in Tucson as a well-earned reward.
4 Tips to Be Prepared for Hiking in Tucson
Before you head out for a hike in Tucson, there are a few things to keep in mind.
1. The Best Time to Hike
The desert heat can be intense, especially in summer, so it’s best to hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
2. What to Pack
Bring at least 2-3 liters of water per person. It’s also wise to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sun protection. Good hiking shoes are a must, especially for rocky terrain.
3. Safety
Always let someone know your hiking plans, and carry a fully charged phone.
4. Wildlife
Be cautious of snakes, especially in warmer months. Stay on marked trails and respect the wildlife.
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly outing or a tough summit climb, Tucson offers a variety of hiking experiences for every skill level. Get out there and discover the best hiking trails in Tucson today!
Looking for hiking companions and professional connections? You just might find both at The Post. We’re Tucson’s best local coworking space. Book a tour today.