Sunset Vista and Hunter Trail Loop

This challenging loop is located within Picacho Peak State Park, near Benson, Arizona. It's a prominent feature of the park, with both the Sunset Vista and Hunter Trails leading to the same summit.

The loop offers varied and significant challenges. The Sunset Vista Trail starts moderately for the first two miles, but the final mile becomes very difficult, featuring cables and catwalks to assist climbers. The Hunter Trail, at 1.6 miles, is consistently very steep throughout its entire length. Hikers with a fear of heights may find the steep sections and aids intimidating.

The trailheads for both the Sunset Vista and Hunter Trails are located within Picacho Peak State Park. You'll find designated parking areas within the park for access to these trails. Specific parking details are usually available upon entry to the park or on the park's official website.

Yes, as this trail is located within an Arizona State Park, there is typically an entrance fee required to access Picacho Peak State Park. You do not need a separate hiking permit for the trail itself, but you must pay the park entrance fee. Check the official state park website for current fee schedules and operating hours.

While Picacho Peak State Park generally allows dogs on leash on some trails, the upper sections of the Sunset Vista and Hunter Trails, particularly those with cables and catwalks, are not suitable for dogs due to the extreme terrain and safety concerns. It's best to confirm specific park regulations regarding dogs on these particular trails before your visit.

The best time to hike this loop is during the cooler months, typically fall, winter, and spring. It is not recommended to undertake this hike during the hot summer months due to extreme temperatures in the Arizona desert.

The trail offers scenic desert landscapes as you ascend through Picacho Peak State Park. Reaching the peak provides expansive, panoramic vistas of the surrounding Arizona desert. The journey itself is quite dramatic, especially with the unique rock formations and the challenging ascent.

Given the challenging nature and desert environment, you should pack plenty of water (more than you think you'll need), sturdy hiking boots with good grip, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), snacks, and gloves for gripping the cables. A first-aid kit and a map are also highly recommended.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Sunset Vista Trail, Park Road Trail PR, Hunter Trail, Calloway Trail, Children's Cave Trail, and Nature Trail.

Yes, the sections with cables and catwalks on the Sunset Vista Trail require good upper body strength, a head for heights, and careful footing. It's crucial to wear appropriate footwear and consider bringing gloves for better grip. Take your time, maintain three points of contact, and be aware of other hikers.

Due to the very difficult sections involving cables and catwalks, and consistently steep grades, this loop is generally not recommended for beginners or young children. It's a challenging hike best suited for experienced hikers with good physical fitness and no fear of heights.