Rincon Mountains
Located on Tucson's east side is the Rincon Mountain Wilderness Area of Coronado National Forest. The most popular way to experience the Rincons is at Saguaro National Park East, which offers numerous trails, and Colossal Cave Mountain Park, a massive underground labyrinth and one of the largest dry caves in the world.
Trails
Colossal Cave Mountain Park
This beautiful, 2,400-acre desert park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and showcases Colossal Cave and the historic La Posta Quemada Ranch. Two easy hiking trails wind throughout the park, including the Gale W. Bundrick Trail, which goes into a riparian area.
Cactus Forest Trail
This easy, sandy, and level trail (10-miles round trip) crosses several times the Cactus Forest Drive loop within the Saguaro National Park. The scenery is the classic Sonoran Desert, with many saguaros and other cacti.
Douglas Spring Trail
This easy hike (6-miles, round trip) is an excellent introductory hike that features a beautiful, seasonal waterfall at the end.
Rincon Peak: Miller Peak Trail
A strenuous, lengthy hike (16-mile round trip) in a remote location ending at one of the best summits in Tucson.
Tanque Verde Ridge Trail
This is a strenuous, 18-mile round-trip hike through pristine Sonoran Desert landscape with tremendous views.
Permits & Maps
Stop by a hiking-camping supply store to purchase a map or hiking guide or to contact local hiking groups and organizations for suggestions. The Summit Hut and Southern Arizona Hiking Club are good places to start. Keep in mind, hiking permits are required for some areas.
