The best walks and hikes in Pima County
4.7
(507)
6,482
hikers
435
hikes
Hiking in Pima County offers diverse experiences across its unique Sonoran Desert environment, characterized by towering Saguaro cacti and several mountain ranges. The region includes the Santa Catalina, Tucson, Rincon, and Santa Rita Mountains, providing varied terrain from desert foothills to cooler high-elevation forests. Important riparian areas like Cienega Creek Natural Preserve and numerous canyons such as Sabino Canyon also contribute to the landscape, creating a wide array of popular hiking trails in Pima County. This combination provides opportunities for different skill levels, from accessible paths to challenging mountain ascents.
Best hiking trails in Pima County
- The most popular hiking route is Bear Canyon to Seven Falls Trail, an 8.5 miles (13.7 km) trail that takes 4 hours 24 minutes to complete. This route offers scenic views and leads to the Seven Falls water features.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Wilderness of Rocks and Mount Lemmon Trail Loop, a moderate 7.9 miles (12.8 km) path. This loop offers varied elevation and scenery within the mountain ranges.
- Local hikers also love the Telephone Line Short Loop, a 4.6 miles (7.5 km) trail leading through desert terrain, often completed in about 2 hours 22 minutes.
- Hiking in Pima County is defined by Sonoran Desert landscapes, diverse mountain ranges, and significant riparian areas. The extensive network offers options for various ability levels, from accessible paths to challenging mountain ascents.
- The routes in Pima County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 500 reviews. More than 6000 hikers have used komoot to explore Pima County's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
4.7
(3)
60
hikers
7.46km
02:23
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(3)
43
hikers
4.49km
01:12
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(3)
39
hikers
6.40km
01:50
220m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
37
hikers
8.15km
02:36
350m
330m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(4)
30
hikers
4.16km
01:07
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
24
hikers
7.41km
02:25
250m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(6)
22
hikers
8.91km
02:47
230m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
14
hikers
12.8km
04:47
590m
670m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(1)
20
hikers
11.0km
05:14
760m
770m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
18
hikers
8.21km
02:28
280m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Pima County
Tips from the Community
Shuttles leave from here. For more info check out: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r03/coronado/recreation
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Reaching Seven Falls involves crossing a stream multiple times, which should be done carefully, especially during periods of high water. The reward in seven falls cascades with inviting pools, perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day. The pools are seasonal, so they won't be full year-round.
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The mountain views here are sublime with extensive panoramic views of Sabino Canyon. The cacti are impressively tall here!
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This view of the cascades where Sabino Creek flows from the mountains is as outstanding as the nearby Seven Falls.
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Parking is across the street. No water access at this trailhead.
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A place where there are big trees m, offering shadow in summer and great colors in winter
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This "lake" is a popular destination in Sabino Canyon Recreation Area, despite the fact that the reservoir has essentially filled itself in, and the lake is now a creek that spills over the top of the dam. Keep an eye out for a remarkable diversity of plants and animals, especially birds. The trails around the lake itself are reasonably easy, but there is a very tough climb up Saddleback Mountain to the east.
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Endless fun and beautiful views. Suitable for less and more experienced riders. Love all the types of cactuses there.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Pima County?
Pima County offers a vast network of over 290 hiking routes, catering to a wide range of skill levels. You'll find everything from easy strolls through the desert to challenging mountain ascents.
Are there easy or family-friendly hiking options in Pima County?
Yes, Pima County has numerous easy and family-friendly trails. Over 120 routes are rated as easy. For instance, the Gould Mine Trail loop in Saguaro National Park is an easy 2.5-mile path, perfect for immersing families in the unique saguaro cactus forests. Another accessible option is Tumamoc Hill, a paved 3.3-mile trail offering panoramic views.
Can I find hikes with waterfalls or natural pools in Pima County?
Absolutely. Pima County's canyons often feature seasonal water features. The Seven Falls via Bear Canyon Trail in Coronado National Forest is a popular moderate hike leading to beautiful waterfalls. Another excellent choice is the Romero Canyon Trail to Romero Pools, offering refreshing natural pools at the end of a moderate 6.2-mile trek.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions to see while hiking in Pima County?
Pima County is rich in natural landmarks. You can hike to Wasson Peak for stunning desert vistas, or explore the unique riparian areas like Loma Verde Wash. The region also features iconic saguaro cactus forests, especially within Saguaro National Park. For a challenging climb with rewarding views, consider trails leading to Pusch Peak.
Are there any loop hikes available in Pima County?
Yes, Pima County offers several scenic loop trails. The Wasson Peak loop in Saguaro National Park is a moderate 7.7-mile route. Another option is the Aspen Trail, Marshall Gulch Trail, & Arizona Trail loop, an easy 3.7-mile loop in Coronado National Forest.
What is the best time of year to hike in Pima County?
The best time to hike in Pima County is typically from late fall through spring (October to April) when temperatures are milder. Summers can be extremely hot, especially in the desert lowlands, making early morning or high-elevation hikes in the mountain ranges more advisable during those months.
What do other hikers enjoy most about trails in Pima County?
The trails in Pima County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 400 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the stunning Sonoran Desert landscapes, the diverse mountain ecosystems, and the opportunities to spot unique wildlife like the towering Saguaro cacti.
Are there any challenging or advanced hiking routes in Pima County?
Yes, for experienced hikers seeking a challenge, Pima County offers 23 difficult routes. The Blackett's Ridge Trail to Saddleback in Coronado National Forest is a moderate to difficult 6-mile out-and-back trail known for its significant elevation gain and rewarding views.
Where can I experience the iconic Saguaro cacti while hiking?
Saguaro National Park, which flanks Tucson, is dedicated to preserving these magnificent cacti. Trails like the Cactus Forest & Mica View Trail loop offer excellent opportunities to hike among the dense saguaro forests and experience the unique Sonoran Desert ecosystem up close.
Are there any trails that lead to a summit or offer expansive views?
Many trails in Pima County lead to summits or provide panoramic views. Beyond Wasson Peak, which offers expansive vistas of the Tucson Mountains and surrounding desert, Tumamoc Hill provides accessible, sweeping views of the city and desert landscape, especially popular at sunrise or sunset.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on the trails?
Pima County's diverse ecosystems support a variety of wildlife. In the Sonoran Desert, you might spot javelina, coyotes, roadrunners, and various reptiles. Riparian areas like Cienega Creek Natural Preserve are excellent for birdwatching, attracting over 200 species. Mountainous regions may offer glimpses of deer or even mountain lions, though they are more elusive.
Are there any trails in Catalina State Park?
Yes, Catalina State Park, located at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains, offers several trails. The Alamo Canyon loop is an easy 3.2-mile route within the park, providing a pleasant hike amidst varied terrain.
Most popular routes in Pima County
Most popular attractions in Pima County
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