Tucson offers countless opportunities to catch a trail and walk or run, have a picnic, or just take in some gorgeous scenery. Mount Lemmon is found here, which offers the highest peak you will find in the Santa Catalina Mountains. Also, in western Tucson, you have the opportunity to see Sentinel Peak; it is made of volcanic rocks representing various types of volcanic activity. There are lots of beautiful lands to take in here.
Sabina Canyon
If you have the urge to become one with nature, this is where you go. It is nestled in the foothills of the Catalina Mountains and offers a ton of hiking trails that range from easy to strenuous. Extreme athletes may choose to climb to one of the summits for breathtaking views. The 6.2-mile Blackett’s Ridge Trail is highly recommended and will take you all the way to the ridge between Bear Canyon and Sabina Canyon. Bring a lot of water, and pack a jacket. If the sun goes down before you make it back, the canyon can get very chilly.
Catalina State Park
It will only take one visit to Catalina State Park and you will be hooked. This is a favorite park for walking, biking, and hiking. It offers 5,500 acres of the canyon, foothills, and streams that invite camping, picnicking, and bird-watching. In fact, more than 150 bird species call this park their home. There is also an equestrian center with plenty of trailer parking, so you can bring your horse for a ride. There are 120 campsites and 95 have water and electric hookups. Trails range from 1 to 10.5 miles. If you are in good shape, the Sutherland Trail and Romero Canyon Trail are both intense and take you through riparian canyon and desert terrain to cool natural pools.
Saguaro National Park
On the east side of the city, you find this park that offers North America’s largest cacti. It is in the heart of the Sonoran desert so wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. There are a few new water stations throughout the park too where you can refill your bottle. If you want to trek the backcountry and plan on staying overnight, you will need to obtain a permit.
Tucson Mountain Park
At approximately 20,000 square miles, this is one of the largest natural resources that is owned by a local government. There are 60 miles of share trails that welcome hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. Some are very challenging but award you with breathtaking views. There are three campsites and picnic areas and an abundance of wildlife viewing opportunities.
Reid Park
There are a few different paths here, one of which is paved and well-lit, making it an ideal spot to walk your dog at dusk when it is cooler. There is also plenty of shade along the trail, which you will appreciate the first time you are here during the middle of the day. This path does get busy at times, so please stay to your right unless you are passing. Also, make sure your iPod is not turned up so loud that you can’t hear others alerting you that they are passing on your left. Don’t miss the zoo!
Rillito River Park
The locals consider this a hidden gem in the city. The paved path runs about 12.5 miles, and there are water fountains, garbage cans and restrooms along the route. There are also poop bag stations to make sure you clean up after your four-legged friend. The path can get crowded, but you will notice that you see a lot of the same people every time you come. It is very rare that you ever see a tourist here.
Funtasticks Family Fun Park
People of all ages can go here every day and really never get bored. Funtasticks offers go-karts, laser tag, mini golf, bumper boats, and batting cages. There is even a Kiddie Land, with an air bounce jump castle, go-karts, and a few rides, including a kiddie rollercoaster.
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding in Tucson is a must. Pantano Stables and Spanish Trail Outfitters are both highly recommended. If you have never taken a ride before, instructors will go over all the basics, and there is a wide variety of tours at both stables; some are several hours long taking you through the desert and the foothills of the Tucson Mountains. If you can, catch an evening ride when the sun is going down over the desert; it will be an experience you will never forget.
With all of these fantastic places to spend your time in, why not consider calling this city your new home? When moving in Tucson, be sure to choose from the best movers to help with your relocation.
