Finger Rock and Pontatoc Loop

This loop is generally considered a moderately difficult to difficult hike. The Finger Rock portion is particularly strenuous, featuring steep, rocky, and technical sections with exposed bedrock. The total elevation gain is approximately 760 meters (2,556 feet).

The terrain offers a striking contrast. The Finger Rock side is known for being one of Tucson's steepest and most technical trails, with boulder-cluttered platforms and progressively rougher sections. In contrast, the upper portion of the Pontatoc Trail is a more flowy, buff dirt footpath with a milder grade.

You have a strategic choice: hiking clockwise means ascending the steep and technical Finger Rock Trail and descending the more gradual Pontatoc Trail. Going counter-clockwise offers a runnable ascent on Pontatoc followed by a technical descent on Finger Rock. Your preference for ascent vs. descent difficulty should guide your decision.

The trail offers incredible scenery throughout. You'll see the iconic 100-foot-high Finger Rock Trail Viewpoint, dramatic canyon walls, and spectacular vistas of Tucson below, especially from View of Tucson from Linda Vista Saddle. The trail also passes through diverse habitats, from Sonoran desert to areas with yucca, live oak, juniper, and agave.

The primary parking is at the Richard McKee Finger Rock Trailhead. Be aware that this trailhead is very popular and parking spots can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays, so plan to arrive early.

No, dogs are not allowed on this trail at any time of the year. The trail is located within the Pusch Ridge Wilderness, which is a bighorn sheep management area with specific restrictions to protect wildlife.

No specific permit or entrance fee is required to hike the Finger Rock and Pontatoc Loop. However, as it's located within the Pusch Ridge Wilderness, there are important regulations to follow, particularly regarding staying on designated trails during bighorn sheep lambing season.

The cooler months, typically fall through spring, are generally best for hiking in the Santa Catalina Mountains. However, be aware that from January 1st to April 30th, it is bighorn sheep lambing season in the Pusch Ridge Wilderness. During this period, you are prohibited from traveling more than 400 feet off designated Forest Service trails.

As you ascend, you might spot peregrine falcons and golden eagles soaring above the cliffs. The trail also leads into the Bighorn Sheep Management Area of the Pusch Ridge Wilderness, though direct sightings of bighorn sheep are rare and require luck.

Yes, the route primarily utilizes sections of the Pontatoc Trail #410 and the Finger Rock Trail #42. A smaller portion also follows the Garnet Trail #411.