Sharing my prime picks for the very best mountaineering trails in Tucson.
Hi hello! Happy Christmas week and hope that you simply all are having a beautiful morning. We had an amazing weekend. It was Elf evening with pals, we embellished gingerbread homes, and I taught a barre class. We’re headed on somewhat staycation later this week, and I’m positively wanting ahead to it.
For immediately’s submit, I needed to share a few of my favourite mountaineering trails in Tucson! We are in the midst of mountaineering season (I believe the very best climate is from late October till early May), and my prime 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 a couple of instances as a household, and the children fell in love with mountaineering, too.
It’s turn into considered one of our favourite household adventures.
I needed to submit a few of the finest Tucson mountaineering trails, plus a few of my ideas for mountaineering with youngsters.
Best 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 may keep on the principle tram highway, which is about 7.3 miles out and again. It’s paved and heavily-populated. Within the canyon, you should utilize All Trails to find so many various trails relying on size and your mountaineering stage. If you need one thing extra rustic however nonetheless populated, you are able to do the Bear Canyon path.
For longer/sportier hikes, attempt Phoneline, Blackett’s, and Seven Falls (pack a lunch and many water for this one).
If you might have youngsters with you, I extremely advocate Bear Canyon to Sabino Dam. It’s brief and there a ton of water for the children (and adults) to wade and play.
Finger Rock
I’ve solely ever completed the principle Finger Rock path, however it’s turn into 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 understand 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 a couple of weeks of one another!
Tumamoc Hill
Tumamoc Hill is a big hill by campus and is 3.1 miles complete (an out-and-back). The first half is a steep incline and if you attain the highest, you might have sweeping views of your complete metropolis. This 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 significant perk: canines are allowed on this path (on a leash!). This is a rarity in Tucson, so it makes this path fairly particular.
Ventana Canyon Trail
This one is true by the Loews Ventana Canyon resort. It has a lot of ups and downs, however nice views, and fairly accessible for all ranges. If it has rained not too long ago, you’ll have to cross by means of water. My Tucson insider tip: do that on a Sunday, and guide the Brews and Blues brunch at Loews afterwards. You’re welcome.
Tips for mountaineering with youngsters:
– Get them youngsters’ Camelbaks, and encourage them to put on them, even in case you’re solely planning on a brief hike. When the children 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 helpful to not have to hold each of their water bottles).
– Hiking sneakers could also be well worth the funding. I discover that many youngsters’ sneakers are slippery on the underside and don’t do effectively with climbing or steeper areas. I’ve discovered the entire youngsters’ mountaineering sneakers on Amazon (these ones are wonderful) and Nordstrom Rack.
– Go out with zero expectations. Since the ladies had been infants, I’ve advised myself {that a} stroll or hike could final 5 minute or could final 2 hours. Whatever occurs, it’s okay. They ALWAYS shock me. These youngsters have climbed tremendous steep areas (like Camelback Mountain and Birthing Cave in Sedona), gone by means of caves (in Boulder), and have hiked for a lot of hours with loads of water and snacks. The first a part of the hike is at all times a blended bag (“This is boring,” “When is it over?”) after which they by no means wish to depart.
– Go with pals! If your youngsters are apprehensive about mountaineering otherwise you’re attempting to construct pleasure for them, invite a few of their pals to affix in. This one is at all times a winner, and one thing we attempt to do over breaks from faculty.
So, inform me, pals: what are your favourite mountaineering trails close to you? Spread 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 amazing day!
xo
Gina