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SWEETWATER PRESERVE: TUCSON
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| Saguaro Vista Trail |
Protecting a critical wildlife corridor
between the Tucson Mountains and the Santa Cruz River, Sweetwater
Preserve also complements a trail-rich area of west Tucson that
includes Saguaro National Park and Tucson Mountain Park. Within the
880-acre property, 16 interconnected trails combine for over 12
miles of non-motorized-use routes. For a smallish site, the trails
are surprisingly varied. Based on conversations I had with local
hikers and riders in the parking lot, the Saguaro Vista Trail is the
best place to start exploring. Turns out, that was great advise as
this cactus-cluttered pathway gets you into the good stuff quickly.
Within a few minutes of mild uphill hiking, views of the Santa
Catalina Mountains rising over downtown Tucson and a wildly contorted
crested saguaro provide ample photo opportunities.
The trail then
swings northwest where the graceful arms of chain fruit cholla and
Palo verde trees frame the mounds of Wasson and Amole Peaks. Although
Saguaro Vista lives up to its popularity hype, the fun doesn't end
there. Each trail junction within the preserve is marked with
excellent map signs that make finding your way around a cinch. The
signs show a mind-boggling menu of trails that might leave you
wondering which way to go. No worries though, there are no bad
choices. For instance, Black Rock Loop shirts the preserve's far
north sector for expansive views and a walk among jumbled basalt
outcroppings. Lost Arrow Trail contours foothills above the gorge of
Sweetwater Wash while The Spine traces a decommissioned road atop a
sunny ridgeline. Take your pick, each trail has it's own flavor and
scenic qualities making for a perfect way to spend an hour or a day
in the desert.
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| Santa Catalina Mountains viewed from Black Rock Loop |
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| View of Tucson Mountains from Saguaro Vista Trail |
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| The Spine |
LENGTH: 12.93 miles total
RATING: easy-moderate
ELEVATION: 2466' - 2680'
HOURS: dawn to dusk daily
Dogs must be on leash and owners must
pick up and pack out waste.
GETTING THERE:
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| Wildflower Ridge |
Sweetwater Trailhead: 4001 N. Tortolita
Road Tucson.
From Interstate 10 in Tucson, take the
El Camino Del Cerro/Ruthrauff Road exit 252. At the bottom of the
off ramp, head right (west), go 2.6 miles to N. Tortolita Rd, turn
left and continue
1 mile to the trailhead.
INFO & MAP: Pima County Parks &
Recreation
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