Arizona has no shortage of natural areas you can escape to when the daily grind gets overwhelming, but many are too far from the city for practical purposes. Sabino Canyon, however, is right in Tucson's backyard, offering endless outdoor adventure in the form of hiking trails, a waterfall, and a shuttle ride. It's hard to believe a place that seems so remote is within city limits!
At the base of the vast Santa Catalina Mountains sits Sabino Canyon Recreation Area, a popular hiking destination in northeastern Tucson.
Numerous trails vary in length and difficulty, offering boundless adventure for most skill levels. Embark on a challenging, uphill trek and marvel at sweeping vistas of the city, or simply take a leisurely stroll with the kiddos—choose your own adventure!
The Santa Catalina mountains began forming 12,000 years ago, long before humans walked the earth.
These ancient rock walls have fascinating stories to tell—are you listening?
Pictured here is Esperero Trail, a 12.5-mile, out-and-back hike that ascends almost 4,000 feet.
Given the trail's difficulty, you won't see very many hikers—but don't let the steep uphill climb intimidate you. As with most trails in the recreation area, offshoots branch out at many points along the way. Customize the hike to your liking, making it easier or harder.
Several trails cross Sabino Creek, which, between snowmelt and monsoon season, flows almost year-round.
Water collects in pools on either side of the path, and families often bring along a picnic to munch on while listening to the steady trickle of the stream.
Although winters are generally mild across southern Arizona, subtle changes ensure there's no mistaking what season it is.
Lofty mountain peaks covered in snow rise up in the distance, creating a stark contrast to the Saguaro-studded desert landscape that dominates the area.
One of the most heavily trafficked hikes in all of Tucson, Bear Canyon Trail leads to the iconic natural wonder known as Seven Falls.
The nine-mile excursion is fairly difficult, with an elevation gain of over 1,100 feet, but the breathtaking views that await are worth every drop of sweat. As its name suggests, the waterfall features a whopping seven tiers, cascading seamlessly into one another before flowing into a gorgeous basin at the bottom.
You can even take a ride on the Sabino Canyon Crawler, an emission-free electric shuttle, to enhance your experience.
Each passenger receives a pair of earbuds through which the tour audio is transmitted, detailing how the canyon was formed, the types of flora and fauna that live in it, and what seasonal changes can be observed. You'll also learn key historical and cultural facts while you take in the gorgeous views. Choose between the Sabino Canyon and Bear Canyon/Seven Falls Tour, the prices for which vary across age groups. Click here for details, as well as information about hours of operation.
Entrance to the recreation area is $8 per vehicle, with exceptions for holders of certain passes. Visit the U.S. Forest Service website or Facebook page to learn more.
Have you ever been to this amazing natural area? If so, what's your favorite trail there? Let us know in the comments below, and check out our previous article to learn more about Seven Falls.
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