Kino Environmental Restoration Project

The Kino Environmental Restoration Project trail is an easy 2.2 to 2.3-mile paved multi-use path. It is largely flat with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for walkers, joggers, and cyclists of all skill levels. You can expect a smooth surface with no significant obstacles.

Despite its urban location, the trail offers a tranquil oasis with diverse ecological areas. You'll see constructed stream courses, five vegetation-lined ponds, and restored native plant communities. The rich environment attracts a variety of birdlife, including ducks, herons, warblers, and hummingbirds, as well as native toads and aquatic invertebrates.

Yes, the trail is a loop that circles the northern part of the Kino Sports Complex. This makes it convenient for a continuous walk or run without needing to retrace your steps.

The trail loops around the Kino Sports Complex, which offers ample parking facilities. Look for parking areas associated with the complex to access the trail easily.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, please ensure your dog is kept on a leash at all times and that you clean up after them to maintain the natural environment for everyone.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round. However, for the most comfortable experience, consider visiting during the cooler months from fall through spring (October to April) to avoid the intense summer heat of Tucson. Early mornings or late afternoons are also ideal for wildlife viewing.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Kino Environmental Restoration Project trail. It is a public recreational area, freely accessible to all visitors.

Yes, the trail is integrated into The Loop, a larger network of pedestrian and bicycle paths that connects various river parks and greenways throughout the greater Tucson area. It also passes through sections of the Tucson Diversion Channel.

The entire project is an award-winning initiative for flood control, stormwater harvesting, and habitat creation. Along the route, you'll experience a blend of practical flood control infrastructure with aesthetic natural environments, including constructed stream courses and diverse native plant communities. You'll also find the El Paso and Southwestern Greenway nearby.

Absolutely! Its paved, flat, and easy terrain makes it an excellent choice for families with children, strollers, or those looking for a gentle outdoor experience. The diverse wildlife and natural scenery also provide educational opportunities for younger visitors.

The project serves multiple purposes: it provides crucial flood control, harvests stormwater, creates sustainable wildlife habitats, and offers recreational opportunities for the community. It transformed a stormwater detention basin into a thriving ecological area.