Tucson is an outdoor wonderland.
Let's just set the record straight before we begin. Tucson is a wonderland where flora and fauna are concerned. It is so unique, and yes, violent and poky. And nothing compares. AND! You know what else? Those feral babies like mine THRIVE in this environment where they are forced to move slowly, stop often, and pay very close attention to detail in the wilderness. I'm telling you now, spending time in the desert is so good for your soul.
And for the second order of business, you all need to understand that this list does not even scratch the surface of my list of recommendations. It's just a good place to begin with some of the places I have frequented most regularly the past year or two. So without further ado, let's jump in.
Sanctuary Cove
Before starting the intense climb or short meander out and back up Safford Peak, pause and admire the chapel and labyrinth at Sanctuary Cove, just a short walk from the lower parking lot! From the chapel, there are a number of marked trails you can explore with even the littlest of kids and photo ops start no further than the parking lot. It's a truly beautiful place.
The Way of The Cross
Take a short walk through the wash to look at the Picture Rocks Petroglyphs and then just turn behind you for the signs to The Way of The Cross loop for a (maybe?) .25mi walk lined with crosses and memorials that was really beautiful.
Desert Discovery Trail
The Desert Discovery Nature Trail, a dog-friendly, flat .3mi loop found in Saguaro National Park near the Red Hills Visitor Center where you can also stop to watch a short film, talk to Rangers, and see the interactive displays
What passes do you recommend getting if we plan to hike a lot?
Great question! I live across the street from an entrance to Saguaro National Park and plan to travel through a few states this year, so we decided to get the America The Beautiful National Parks pass this year. With two national parks spread across three locations just in Tucson limits alone, plus a ton more monuments within 1-2 hours, it was an easy decision for us.
But Catalina State Park is INCREDIBLE and Picacho Peak (both also on the outskirts of Tucson, I'm telling you this city is a gateway to an outdoor enthusiasts playground) has one of my favorite difficult climbs and it is definitely worth looking into the State Park passes if you like to make day trips because within 2-3 hours of Tucson in any direction are more amazing state park options!
Did you know I build frames for my landscape photography and also sell the digital images? You can purchase this favorite by simply clicking and finding it in my landscape gallery.
Catalina State Park
Whether you go in spring when the snow run off from the mountain creates a flowing creek, throughout the other season, Catalina State Park is beautiful in every direction, draped in mountain backdrops and a labyrinth of trails that make it easy to explore as near or far as you like.
What gear do you recommend for hiking with kids?
Snacks, snacks, and more snacks. But for reals. Everyone hikes happier with absurd amounts of food. And my kids carry their own snacks, or at least some of their own snacks, so I guess add a backpack or fanny pack or whatever purse your kid is happy to carry.
My toddler recently discovered what we call "the saddle", which has been a game changer for a baby who is independent and don't need no parent to carry her. Except for when her legs get so tired and she need uppies. Then she sits on the saddle on my hip and there's no buckling in and out every time she changes her mind, just plunking her up and down.
And of course, some binoculars (make believe or real), a hiking stick, and/or a plant or bird identification chart make every hike an adventure and game.
Sabino Canyon
Last, but certainly not least, part of Coconino National Forest, Sabino Canyon was my favorite place to hike in high school and it's so fun introducing my kids to it now!
- peek that picture of my now-husband with me and all my siblings back in our 2011 family Thanksgiving Day hike! -
Perks of Sabino Canyon are the variety of trail types - from paved to scrambling, the tram rides, and potential for mountain snow runoff again!
So, where will you hike first?
Contact me if you would like to take pictures at any of these beautiful locations!
