Southern Arizona hikes

Cave Creek Trail

Distance: 9.8 miles on a loop trail

Elevation gain: 1,722 feet

Difficulty rating: 3

Although this hike is accessible year-round, it gets hot, so plan accordingly and bring ample amounts of water. The hike offers easy-to-follow markers, views of wildflowers, and is great for seeing horses along the way, all while walking along a creek. This trail is a great option for intermediate hikers seeking a challenge.

Dixie Mountain Loop Trail

Distance: 4.6 miles on a loop trail

Elevation gain: 741 feet

Difficulty rating:  3

Small ups and downs lead hikers through this loop trail that is a fun hike for all levels. Different wildlife can be seen on the hike, and the most difficult part of the will be getting to the summit, but the top will not disappoint. Lace-up your best hiking shoes and enjoy.

Dreamy Draw Loop Trail

Distance: 3.7 miles on a loop trail

Elevation gain: 616ftDifficulty rating: 2

This fun hike is great for all levels of hikers. The trail is not well marked and can be difficult to follow, so it might be helpful to carry the AllTrails app for guidance or follow the crowds since this Is a heavily traveled hike. Dogs are welcome on the trail but must be on a leash.

East Wing Mountain Trail

Distance: 1.5 miles on a loop trail

Elevation gain: 419 feet

Difficulty rating: 2

This short hike offers hikers a chance to scramble up on some rocks as they hike up to the top of a fantastic 360 view of the surrounding area. It’s a great option for your leashed pet too. It’s best to hike this trail between October–April.

Granite Mountain Loop Trail

Distance: 4.5 miles on a loop

Elevation gain: 283 feet

Difficulty rating: 2

A well-marked trail leads hikers into a lush green area if done at the right time of year. This hike is accessible year-round, but if you choose to attempt it in summer, it’s best to start early to beat the heat. The trail is easy going through the desert landscape and features wildflowers and giant boulders around the trail. Dogs are allowed on the trail but must be kept on leash.

Hidden Valley Trail

Distance: .5 miles on an out-and-back trail (1 mile total)

Elevation gain: 2 feet

Difficulty rating: 1

A trail that is short and great for exploring, the main attraction is the fat man’s pass that hikers go through to reach the end. At the end of the trail, hikers can connect to other trails like a pick-and-choose adventure that won’t disappoint.

Holbert Trail

Distance: 2.5 miles on an out-and-back trail (5 miles in total)

Elevation gain: 1059 feet

Difficulty rating: 3

This trail starts flat and easygoing. After a few sandy washes, you will come across a paved road. Follow the signs to the right where the trail becomes more technical and rockier. Keep going to the top for a view that’s worth the climb. As always, pack lots of water and sun protection.

Javelina Canyon and Ridgeline Loop Trail

Distance: 3.4 miles on a loop trail

Elevation gain: 561 feet

Difficulty rating: 2

This is another good hike for the cooler months of the year. The trail starts a bit slow but once you turn the ridge line, it gets more fun. This is a great option for hikers with families and pets but start early if you attempt it during the summer months.

Lookout Mountain Summit Trail

Distance: .9 miles on an out and back trail (1.8 miles in total)

Elevation gain: 473 feet

Difficulty rating:  2

Best November–April, this trail offers a great view of the entire valley at the top. It is worth it to try and wake up early to watch the sunrise in the valley. The hike is great for all levels of hikers, families, and pets.

McDowell Mountain Trails

Distance: 2.2-14.8 miles, trails vary

Elevation gain: 118 feet – 2,066 feet (trails vary)

Difficulty rating: 1–4 (trails vary)

McDowell Mountain offers a variety of options for every hiker. Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll to enjoy the sights, or to climb a long trail for the scenic panorama, this is the park for you.  Lace-up your boots and pack the sun protection. Be aware of mountain bikers, as this has become a popular place to ride too.

Piestewa Peak Summit Trail

Distance: 1.1 miles on an out-and-back trail (2.2 miles total)

Elevation gain: 1,050 feet

Difficulty rating:  3

The short distance and the rapid elevation gain are what give this hike a 3 on the difficulty scale. The trail is a leg burner up but is well worth the view at the top. It can be done at all times of the year and is very busy with other hikers but it’s not a technical hike and well worth the leg burn to get to the top. Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash.

Pima Wash to West Loop

Distance: 2.7 miles on a loop trail

Elevation gain: 213 feet

Difficulty rating: 2

Best hiked during the winter and early spring months of the year, this trail offers a lot of shade and rest spots which makes it ideal for for hikers of all levels. Trail running is also popular here and the wildflowers are abundant like so many other hikes in the area. Dogs are welcomed on the trail but must be on leash.

Pipeline Canyon Trail

Distance: 2.1 miles on an out-and-back trail (4.2 miles in total)

Elevation gain: 519 feet

Difficulty rating:  2

An easy, well-marked trail, this is a great way to get your blood pumping. This trail follows a marked path down into the canyon and it is also connected to the Yavapai trail which is a .7 mile out and back. Get out early before the heat of the day, and you may be lucky enough to see some wild burros along the trail.

Ridgeback Overlook

Distance: 1.7 miles on an out-and-back trail (3.4 miles in total)

Elevation gain: 273 feet

Difficulty rating: 2

This trail is between the Sidewinder and the Ocotillo trails. The trail’s elevation gain is slightly easier and more forgiving from the south where Sidewinder Trail is located. At the top of the trail, the views will not disappoint and there is nice variation for someone who has already done the sidewinder trail. Don’t forget your sun protection on this exposed hike.

Rincon Peak Trail

Distance: 14.4 miles on an out-and-back trail (28.8 miles in total)

Elevation gain: 4,596 feet

Difficulty rating: 5

This trail is no joke! Accessible year-round, it is great for adventurous hikers who are ready to take on a challenge. The trail is hard, so don’t underestimate it, bring extra water and food. Camping out is an option for hikers but the roundtrip can be done in one day. You will not be let down once you conquer the summit. Great views along the way will keep motivating you to finish the hike. No dogs are allowed on this hike.

Shaw Butte Trail

Distance: 3.7 miles on a loop trail

Elevation gain: 748 feet

Difficulty rating: 3

It is best to tackle this hike in the morning during the summer to avoid excessive heat. The loop starts on a dirt road and then quickly gets more gradual after about a mile or so. The top of this hike has transmission towers on top of it, but hikers can still see out in the distance and appreciate the views. Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash.

Sidewinder Loop Trail

Distance: 6.5 miles on a loop trail

Elevation gain: 810 feet

Difficulty rating:  2

This is another great hike accessible year-round that is a good introduction to beginner hikers who are looking to up the ante. During this hike, you will see gorgeous wildflowers as you hike to the summit. It is best to hike it in the morning or while the flowers are blooming to get the full experience it has to offer.

Murray Springs Interpretive Trail

Distance: 0.8 mile

Elevation gain: 36 feet

Difficulty rating: 1

Best hiked March–October, this hike features beautiful wildflowers and great educational opportunities to learn about the Clovis man and the Mammoth kill site. Bones of several extinct animals were found at this site including Mammoths, North American horses, Camels, Bison, Lions, and Dire wolves. The age of the site is roughly 11,000 years old.

San Pedro House

Distance: 2-mile loop

Elevation gain: 26 feet

Difficulty rating: 1

This hike is accessible year-round and is located in the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area (NCA). Amazing riverside scenes with plants (large cottonwood trees) and animals await you here. If you are into bird-watching, this trail is a great choice.

San Pedro River Trail

Distance: 29.6 miles

Elevation Gain: 541 feet

Difficulty rating: 4

This moderately trafficked loop trail features a river. Accessible year-round and open to horseback riding and mountain biking, it’s a great place for bird-watching. Dogs must be leashed.

Bear Canyon to Seven Falls Trail

Distance: 8.5 miles total out and back

Elevation gain: 1,062 feet

Difficulty rating: 3

This is a Tucson gem! As an awesome hike for most skill levels, it gets crowded. The trail crosses a stream a few times, so be careful at those spots. The pools/waterfall at the end are like paradise. Bring lots of water, but there is a refill station available along the way.

Finger Rock Trail (to summit Mount Kimball)

Distance: 8.8 miles total out and back

Elevation gain: 4,189 feet

Difficulty rating: 4

This trail is ready to challenge intermediate and advanced hikers. It starts gradually but gets steeper as it goes along, making the summit that much more rewarding. It’s a tough climb, so bring lots of water. The trail is also quite exposed, so start early to catch the shade as long as possible. Depending on the time of year it can be buggy, so bring bug spray and sun protection.

Maiden Pools Trail

Distance: 5.6 miles total out and back

Elevation gain: 1,371 feet

Difficulty rating: 3

This is a popular hike but recommended for winter and early spring. It gets buggy and hot with no shade, and the pools dry up. There are awesome views on the way back, but as always, we recommend starting early.

Pima Canyon Trail

Distance: 3.9 miles total out and back

Elevation gain: 667 feet

Difficulty rating: 2

This is a nice trail but is heavily trafficked. Long pants are recommended because of the bugs. There are stretches of trail over solid rock, so wear your best hiking shoes. Enjoy the unique geology and wildlife but be careful of the rattlesnakes. Enjoy the creek and shady spots.

Pusch Peak via Linda Vista Trail

Distance: 3.9 miles total out and back

Elevation gain: 2,657 feet

Difficulty rating: 4

Short, but tough, this hike is a steep climb with a lot of sun exposure. You should start early and come prepared with a lot of water, and sun protection. It’s rocky in some parts, and the trail is hard to follow at the top, but the views are some of the best in all of southern Arizona.

Sabino Canyon Trail (to Hutch’s Pool)

Distance: 7.8 miles total out and back or 13.4 loop connecting to Bear Canyon

Elevation gain: 1,194 feet

Difficulty rating: 4

This trail begins at the end of the Sabino Canyon Recreation Area bus loop. The length is manageable for most, but the hike is steep and rocky. The incredible views, beautiful flora and fauna, and highly sought-after desert water make it all worth it. We recommend trekking poles, good shoes, lots of water, and sun protection. There is a fee for the recreation area and shuttle.

Sycamore Reservoir Trail

Distance: 7.4 total miles out and back

Elevation gain: 1,184 feet

Difficulty rating: 3

This hike is full of rolling hills, nice views, and relatively few visitors, so enjoy the peace! The best part is there’s flowing water at certain times of the year. Check out the reservoir which is a short distance off the main trail.

Tanque Verde Falls Trail

Distance: 1.8 miles total out and back

Elevation gain: 436 feet

Difficulty rating: 1.5

This beginner-friendly trail is quite popular and at certain times of year, the water is flowing. The only challenge is at the very end with some slight rock hopping/scrambling to get to the falls. Adventurous spirits can even go past the first falls to the bigger falls above for more fun.

Bridal Wreath Falls Trail

Distance: 5.6 miles total out and back

Elevation gain: 1,072 feet

Difficulty rating: 3.5

This is a great intermediate hike with the perfect blend of challenge, fun, and awesome views. The falls typically aren’t flowing after April, so go during the winter/spring months. This is also when the cacti are blooming and the temps aren’t scorching (yet). Keep an eye out for lots of wildlife, including snakes.

Cactus Wren Trail

Distance: 3.0 miles on a loop

Elevation gain: 187 feet

Difficulty rating: 2

This is a nice hike with little variation. Enjoy the cacti when they are in bloom, and enjoy some easy miles. There is a small hill at the top, but it still has a cool view. Be sure to bring more water than you expect you need.

King Canyon/Gould Mine Loop Trail

Distance: 2.3 miles on a loop

Elevation gain: 380 feet

Difficulty rating: 2

Quiet, peaceful, and relaxing, this trail is a great place to disconnect from technology and the rest of the world and reconnect with yourself and nature. There are a lot of forks in the trail to keep things interesting. The beginning is a bit rocky, so lace up your good hiking shoes and come prepared with lots of water and sun protection.

Signal Hill Trail

Distance: 0.3 miles out and back

Elevation gain: 26 feet

Difficulty rating: 1

This short stroll is great for beginners and has some neat petroglyphs. If you’re feeling up to the challenge, extend this with the Cactus Wren Trail (next on this list). Don’t forget water and sun protection. After all, it is Tucson.

Wasson Peak Summit Trail

Distance: 9.4 miles total out and back

Elevation gain: 2,113 feet

Difficulty rating: 4

Take this challenge and get to the top for a panoramic view of the entire Tucson area. Remember to head left at the ‘T’ intersection by the big log. Otherwise, the trail is easy to follow, there’s lots to see, and fun rocky sections to keep things interesting. The switchbacks are steep but in great shape. Wear good shoes, pack lots of water, and enjoy an early morning excursion.

Brown Mountain Trail

Distance: 4.7 miles on a loop

Elevation gain: 659 feet

Difficulty rating: 2

Keep your eyes open for wildlife on this fun hike. The views are great from the top too. The climb at the end is a little steep, but it’s a great challenge for all skill levels. Start early and pack lots of water and sunscreen.

Cascabel Loop Trail

Distance: 2.6 miles on a loop

Elevation gain: 81 feet

Difficulty rating: 1

This beginner-friendly trail is easy to access but lacks a ‘wilderness’ ambiance with all the traffic noise and people around. But it’s a great way to get outside without committing to a full day of driving and hiking. The trail is kid and dog-friendly too, so bring the whole family.

David Yetman Trail

Distance: 11.9 miles total out and back

Elevation gain: 1,328 feet

Difficulty rating: 4

This trail is used heavily by mountain bikers, but it’s a great hike too. Pack water and food for the whole day, because this is a long, but enjoyable hike. There are wildflowers and wildlife everywhere.

Hidden Canyon Bowen Loop Trail

Distance: 2.1 miles on a loop

Elevation gain: 367 feet

Difficulty rating: 2

This is a great option for all skill levels with nice views, a good breeze, some shady spots, and some cool history if you stop at the Bowen site. There is a gradual elevation change,  so we recommend good hiking shoes.

Laguna Mountain Ridge Trail

Distance: 15.4 miles

Elevation gain: 2,175 feet

Difficulty rating: 3

This is a nice trail to hike, mountain bike, walk your dog, or off-road. There are fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities, so bring the camera. The trail will make for a long day, so pack a lunch and lots of water. Don’t forget sun protection.

Marty’s Ridge to Liberty Bell

Distance: 8.6 miles loop

Elevation gain: 833 feet

Difficulty rating: 3

Accessible year-round, this hike features lots of ATV/off-road vehicle trails all around. Make sure to become familiar with the direction of the trail before going out there because it is easy to go the wrong way. Mountain biking is allowed. Dogs must be leashed.

Paradise Valley Loop

Distance: 13.6 miles

Elevation gain: 1,398 feet

Difficulty rating: 4

Accessible year-round, this trail is great for hiking and mountain biking with great views of wildflowers. A road for 4X4s runs parallel to the trail.

Telegraph Pass Trail

Distance: 5 miles

Elevation gain: 1,092 feet

Difficulty rating: 3

This is a summit hike. In the springtime, you can enjoy blooming wildflowers and desert plants. It is best to attempt this hike early in the morning because it gets hot later in the day. It is best experienced from October–March, and is a hike you don’t want to miss out on. It is perfect for intermediate hikers.