What Are The Hidden Gems of Tucson’s Hiking Trails?

Tucson, Arizona, is a city surrounded by beautiful desert landscapes and mountains, perfect for hiking enthusiasts. With hundreds of hiking trails available, choosing which one to explore can be overwhelming. While some of the more popular trails are always a great option, the avid hiker has plenty of hidden gems waiting to discover.

Hiking in Tucson is a unique experience, as the desert landscape is like no other. With plenty of mountains to choose from, it’s important to pick a trail suitable for your experience level. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just starting, Tucson has something to offer everyone. Let’s dive into the hidden gems of Tucson’s hiking trails!

The Phoneline Trail

Discover this 15.9-kilometer round-trip path close to Tucson, Arizona. It is typically considered to be of moderate difficulty and usually takes around 4 hours and 16 minutes to finish. This location is highly sought-after for bird watching, hiking, and jogging, so you may come across other individuals while you explore. 

One of the unique features of the Phoneline Trail is the old telephone line that runs alongside it. The line connects the top of the mountain to the bottom, and remnants of the old poles can still be seen along the trail. The Phoneline Trail is also home to various wildlife, including deer, javelinas, and hawks.

Agua Caliente Hill Trail

The Agua Caliente Hill Trail is a lesser-known trail perfect for hikers looking for a challenging hike. Located in the Tucson Mountain Park, this 9-mile trail takes you to the top of Agua Caliente Hill and offers stunning views of the Tucson valley. The trail starts with a gradual incline but quickly becomes steep and rocky. 

There are a few sections of the trail where you’ll need to use your hands to climb up the rocks. But once you reach the top, the views are simply breathtaking. One of the unique features of the Agua Caliente Hill Trail is the presence of abandoned mines along the trail. The mines were once used to extract copper and gold, and remnants of the old equipment can still be seen. Make sure to exercise caution around the mines, as they can be dangerous.

Tanque Verde Ridge Trail

The Tanque Verde Ridge Trail is a hidden gem that offers some of the best views of the Tucson valley. Located in the Saguaro National Park East, this 12.2-mile trail takes you to the top of the Tanque Verde Ridge and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and desert landscape.

The trail is challenging, with steep inclines and rocky terrain, but the payoff is well worth it. Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by towering saguaro cacti and other desert flora and fauna. The trail is also home to various wildlife, including deer, javelinas, and rattlesnakes.

The best time to hike the Tanque Verde Ridge Trail is during the cooler months, as the trail can get quite hot during the summer. Make sure to bring plenty of water and wear appropriate hiking shoes.

The Romero Pools Trail

The Romero Pools Trail is a hidden gem for hikers seeking a more moderate hike. Located in the Catalina Mountains, this 5.5-mile round-trip trail takes hikers through scenic canyons and lush vegetation, leading to a series of refreshing pools fed by Romero Creek. 

The trail starts at the Romero Canyon Trailhead and follows a well-maintained path, gradually gaining elevation as it winds through the canyon. Along the way, hikers will encounter several stream crossings and rocky terrain, adding an element of adventure to the hike.

One of the highlights of this trail is the series of pools that hikers can take a dip in to cool off from the hot Tucson sun. The Romero Pools are formed by a series of cascading waterfalls and are a popular spot for picnics and swimming.

Esperero Canyon Trail

The Esperero Canyon Trail offers hikers an unforgettable experience in the Catalina Mountains. This trail is a great spot for those looking for a challenge, as it is a difficult hike that spans about 10 miles. As hikers make their way up the trail, they will be greeted with stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges and the Sonoran Desert. 

The trail also allows hikers to see various wildlife, including rattlesnakes, lizards, and birds. One of the highlights of the Esperero Canyon Trail is the Bridalveil Falls, a stunning waterfall at the end of the trail. The waterfall is approximately 15 feet tall and is a great spot for a quick rest and a photo opportunity. 

Blackett’s Ridge Trail

For those looking for a challenging but rewarding hike, the Blackett’s Ridge Trail is a great choice. Located in the Santa Catalina Mountains, this trail is about 6 miles long and offers hikers stunning views of Tucson and the surrounding desert landscape. This trail is rated difficult, so hikers should be prepared for steep inclines and rocky terrain.

One of the highlights of the Blackett’s Ridge Trail is the stunning panoramic views of Tucson and the surrounding mountains that hikers can see from the top of the ridge. The trail can get steep sometimes, so hikers should be prepared with good hiking boots and plenty of water. The best time to hike this trail is during the cooler months, as it can get quite hot during the summer.

Tanque Verde Falls Trail

The Tanque Verde Falls Trail is located in the Reddington Pass area of the Coronado National Forest, just outside of Tucson, Arizona. The trailhead is located off of the Catalina Highway, which runs through the Santa Catalina Mountains. 

From Tucson, you can take Tanque Verde Road east to the Catalina Highway, and then follow the highway for approximately 8 miles until you reach the trailhead. The trail is popular with hikers, rock climbers, and photographers, as it leads to a series of waterfalls and pools that are especially impressive during the wetter months of the year. 

However, it is important to note that the trail can be steep and rocky in some sections, and visitors should exercise caution and wear appropriate footwear when hiking.

Conclusion

Tucson is a beautiful city with a rich history and a diverse landscape. Whether you are an experienced hiker looking for a challenge or a family looking for a fun day trip, Tucson’s hiking trails offer various options. Just be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and good hiking boots, and always be mindful of the desert wildlife. Happy hiking!