Sharing my high picks for the very best mountaineering trails in Tucson.
Hello hello! Glad Christmas week and hope that you simply all are having a beautiful morning. We had an incredible weekend. It was Elf evening with buddies, we adorned gingerbread homes, and I taught a barre class. We’re headed on somewhat staycation later this week, and I’m undoubtedly wanting ahead to it.
For right this moment’s put up, I wished to share a few of my favourite mountaineering trails in Tucson! We’re in the midst of mountaineering season (I believe the very best climate is from late October till early Might), and my high trails have been full of locals and vacationers, having fun with the beautiful Tucson surroundings. I’ve been a fan of mountaineering for a few years, however actually fell extra in love with it over the previous few years, as a result of it was one of many solely issues we might do. We used the chance to discover a few of our favourite trails, we visited Sedona just a few occasions as a household, and the youngsters fell in love with mountaineering, too.
It’s grow to be considered one of our favourite household adventures.
I wished to put up among the greatest Tucson mountaineering trails, plus a few of my ideas for mountaineering with children.
Greatest mountaineering trails in Tucson
Sabino Canyon
Sabino Canyon is the vacation spot, however inside Sabino Canyon, there are tons of trails. If you’re a beginner or it’s your first time in Tucson, you’ll be able to keep on the primary tram highway, which is about 7.3 miles out and again. It’s paved and heavily-populated. Throughout the canyon, you should use All Trails to find so many various trails relying on size and your mountaineering degree. If you would like one thing extra rustic however nonetheless populated, you are able to do the Bear Canyon path.
For longer/sportier hikes, strive Phoneline, Blackett’s, and Seven Falls (pack a lunch and many water for this one).
You probably have children with you, I extremely suggest Bear Canyon to Sabino Dam. It’s brief and there a ton of water for the youngsters (and adults) to wade and play.
Finger Rock
I’ve solely ever achieved the primary Finger Rock path, but it surely’s grow to be considered one of my favorites. The surroundings is beautiful, the views are superb, and it’s not tremendous difficult or rocky. It’s fairly kid-friendly, however remember the fact that there are extra creatures right here. I’m from Tucson and had by no means seen a gila monster within the wild till this previous yr; I noticed two on this path inside just a few weeks of one another!
Tumamoc Hill
Tumamoc Hill is a big hill by campus and is 3.1 miles whole (an out-and-back). The primary half is a steep incline and if you attain the highest, you have got sweeping views of your entire metropolis. That is considered one of my favourite recs for guests as a result of the views are majestic, it’s not tremendous lengthy, after which it’s a brief drive to the Mercado San Augustin for Presta espresso and Mexican donuts (from Estrella).
Agua Caliente path
This one is an 8-mile out-and-back that’s comparatively difficult with lovely views. A serious perk: canine are allowed on this path (on a leash!). It is a rarity in Tucson, so it makes this path fairly particular.
Ventana Canyon Path
This one is correct by the Loews Ventana Canyon resort. It has plenty of ups and downs, however nice views, and fairly accessible for all ranges. If it has rained just lately, you’ll have to cross via water. My Tucson insider tip: do that on a Sunday, and guide the Brews and Blues brunch at Loews afterwards. You’re welcome.
Suggestions for mountaineering with children:
– Get them children’ Camelbaks, and encourage them to put on them, even in the event you’re solely planning on a brief hike. When the youngsters put on these, it’s like they’ve a superpower and it’s been over a yr and the novelty hasn’t worn off. They LOVE these items and really feel like legit hikers after they put on them. (It’s additionally very useful to not have to hold each of their water bottles).
– Mountain climbing sneakers could also be well worth the funding. I discover that many children’ sneakers are slippery on the underside and don’t do effectively with climbing or steeper areas. I’ve discovered all the children’ mountaineering sneakers on Amazon (these ones are glorious) and Nordstrom Rack.
– Exit with zero expectations. For the reason that women have been infants, I’ve informed myself {that a} stroll or hike might final 5 minute or might final 2 hours. No matter occurs, it’s okay. They ALWAYS shock me. These children have climbed tremendous steep areas (like Camelback Mountain and Birthing Collapse Sedona), gone via caves (in Boulder), and have hiked for a lot of hours with loads of water and snacks. The primary a part of the hike is all the time a combined bag (“That is boring,” “When is it over?”) after which they by no means wish to go away.
– Go together with buddies! In case your children are apprehensive about mountaineering otherwise you’re attempting to construct pleasure for them, invite a few of their buddies to affix in. This one is all the time a winner, and one thing we attempt to do over breaks from faculty.
So, inform me, buddies: what are your favourite mountaineering trails close to you? Unfold the love within the feedback!
What’s your favourite mountaineering vacation spot? I DREAM about going again to Mountain Trek. It was completely magical.
Have an incredible day!
xo
Gina
