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.
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.
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.
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.
