Day Hike - Mountains of Southern Arizona

Meet at the Sabino Canyon Recreation Area Trailhead at 8 am.

Day use pass or America the Beautiful Pass required to park

This is the third of 3 day hikes in the Tucson area from Feb 7-9th.  We will be exploring three regions in the area:  Saguaro National Park East, Saguaro National Park West and Sabino Canyon where we will see the best of the canyons, views, falls, geology and nature in the Tucson Basin.

Richard DuBois (co-leader) will be offering extended mileage options for this hike

Pace will be moderate, with plenty of time for taking in the scenery. 

Here is our hiking route

https://www.gaiagps.com/public/CSmqL7DbfsXMaY5xjpHwu8sF 

Seven Falls is one of the most popular hikes in Tucson boasting seven waterfalls, flowers, butterflies and incredible views. The trail ascends through forests of saguaros, sycamore, and cottonwood trees as teddy bear cactus, buckhorn cholla, and barrel cactus line the path.  There are some switchbacks as you near the water, before the falls finally reveal themselves around a bend in the canyon with a stunning view of water cascading down the granite cliffs into clear pools.  There are several water crossings that may need to be waded across and some steep, rocky terrain.  Bring water shoes and hiking poles as well as sun protection.

Water levels that are too high for safe crossing may necessitate an alternate hike.

The Sonoran Desert houses venomous insects to be aware of when hiking (snakes, bees, scorpions and spiders).

February is the cool season with high's around 70F, dry and sunny.  Some plants and wildflowers may begin blooming.  

Participants are responsible for their own transportation and lodging, although carpooling options to the trailhead can be arranged.  Leader has secured a 3-bedroom home through Airbnb that can be shared with several participants (send me an email if you are interested).  The Tucson airport would be the most convenient to fly into.  There will be options for dining together and sharing free time activities.

Other fun things to see in Tucson during free time:

Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

Tuscon Botanical Garden

Tohono Chul Gardens

San Xavier del Bac Mission

Old Tucson Studios

Kitt Peak National Observatory

Colossal Cave

Chiricahua National Monument 

Picacho State Park, very easy hiking with lots of flowers

Madera Canyon, an amazing birding location

Karchner Caverns State Park

Pima Air and Space Museum

Titan Missile Museum