Rincon Mountains

On the eastern edge of Tucson, the Rincon Mountains rise steeply from the desert floor to pine-covered peaks above 8,600 feet. This rugged and wild range hosts three distinct nature preserves – Saguaro National Park East, Coronado National Forest and Colossal Cave Mountain Park – each offering unique landscapes and opportunities for adventure. From sprawling saguaro forests and cascading waterfalls to serene high-altitude escapes and hidden limestone caves, the Rincon Mountains are a haven for nature lovers.

Activities

Whether you're a hiker, cyclist, birdwatcher, photographer, adventurer, or horseback rider, there’s something in the Rincon Mountains for every level of interest and ability. Families can enjoy ranger-led programs at Saguaro National Park East, adventurers can find solitude on backcountry trails, and creatives will find endless inspiration in the Rincons’ dramatic vistas – especially during the golden hour. Best of all, there’s no single path to adventure in the Rincons – just endless opportunities to connect with nature.

Trails

Exploring the Rincons depends on your preferred terrain. For easy access and iconic desert scenery, head to the lower-elevation trails of Saguaro National Park East, where centuries-old saguaros stretch skyward in every direction. For a more secluded experience, venture into the high-country trails of Coronado National Forest, home to innumerable deep canyons and rocky ridges. To the south, the county park known as Colossal Cave Mountain Park offers another perspective – underground.

Here are just a few of our favorite Rincon Mountains trails:

Easy

Cactus Forest Loop Drive (10 miles) – This scenic road with trail pullouts is perfect for driving, road cycling or walking. Several of the park’s trailheads originate from this route.
Colossal Cave Mountain Park (various distances) – Explore twisting limestone caverns on a guided tour, then relax at the café or stay the night at the campground and explore the wonders of the night sky.
Desert Ecology Trail (0.3 mile) – This paved path is perfect for families who want to explore the unique Sonoran Desert ecosystem during a quick jaunt.
Freeman Homestead Nature Trail (1 mile) – This trail is a great introduction to desert plants and the West’s homesteading history.

landscape image of a green desert with mountains, cacti, and bushes with a blue sky full of clouds at Colossal Cave Mountain Park

Colossal Cave Mountain Park

Moderate

Redington Pass Trails (varies) – This road is a popular access point to a plethora of trails that are well traveled by hikers, cyclists and off-road vehicles, and even connects to the popular Arizona Trail, which traverses the entire state.
Loma Verde and Squeeze Pen Loop (3.7 miles) – This well-traveled scenic desert trail showcases the Sonoran Desert’s classic beauty.
Hope Camp Trail (6.2 miles) – Peaceful and remote, this spot is popular for hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking.

Hard

Tanque Verde Ridge Trail (More than 17 miles) – The most adventuresome outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate this trail’s stunning views and serious elevation gains.
Tanque Verde Falls (1.9 miles) – Though relatively short, this challenging hike requires a combination of traditional hiking and mountain climbing. Visitors will scramble through a dry creek to a stunning desert waterfall, making their exertion well worth the effort.
Douglas Spring to Bridal Wreath Falls (7.3 miles) – This hike is both rewarding, yet challenging, summitting at a waterfall and showcasing the spring’s desert wildflowers.

Woman and a dog standing, admiring a flowing waterfall up close

Tanque Verde Falls

Interested in learning more about the Rincon Mountains? Explore Visit Tucson’s dedicated pages for Saguaro National Park East, Coronado National Forest and Colossal Cave Mountain Park for even more inspiration.