There’s nothing better than a desert in early spring, and nothing more reinvigorating than days on end of sunshine in the depths of winter. So it makes sense that the height of tourist season in hot and sunny Arizona is winter and spring! We’ve been going to Tucson in February for a few years (cough Gem and Mineral Show cough), but the highlight for me is getting outside hiking and climbing and exploring.
Here’s a guide to challenging, adventurous, and beautiful hikes near Tucson.
This is the hike that made me fall in love with Tucson hiking! It’s through the gorgeous Sabino Canyon area and leads to a multi-level waterfall which, after some rain, is very impressive. You get the full saguaro forest experience plus a major payoff at the end.
King Canyon Trail to Wasson Peak
A fun peak within Saguaro National Park, this trail takes you through a variety of desert landscapes to a beautiful overlook. It can be quite windy and there isn’t much shade.
For some true alpine vibes really close to the Mexican border, check out Mount Wrightson. It starts at a high enough elevation that you’re already above the saguaros, and ends so high you’re also above the trees. It’s rocky and forested and beautiful, and easy to forget that you’re in the desert because it’s so lush. Be careful, though—when we went, it was 75F in Tucson and there were four feet of snow atop Mount Wrightson!
Part of the Catalinas, this is an ass-kicker of a hike! It’s steep and rocky, but the view from the top is unmatched. Depending on the time of year, you might encounter streams or even snow.
Short and spicy, this trail includes chains to haul yourself up (and guide yourself down) a gnarly narrow portion. Give yourself more time to complete this one! But it’s super worth it—and super tempting, since you can see the whole trail from the highway between Phoenix and Tucson.