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:
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Freeman Homestead Nature Trail (1 mile) – This trail is a great introduction to desert plants and the West’s homesteading history.
Colossal Cave Mountain Park -
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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.
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Loma Verde and Squeeze Pen Loop (3.7 miles) – This well-traveled scenic desert trail showcases the Sonoran Desert’s classic beauty.
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Hope Camp Trail (6.2 miles) – Peaceful and remote, this spot is popular for hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking.
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Tanque Verde Ridge Trail (More than 17 miles) – The most adventuresome outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate this trail’s stunning views and serious elevation gains.
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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.
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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.
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.
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