Five-Star Trails

by Rob Rachowiecki

Published 20 January 2014
Explore the Best Trails in Tucson, Arizona

Encircled by mountains, blessed with awe-inspiring desert scenery, and flanked to its east and west by Saguaro National Park, Tucson is an absolute hiker's nirvana. Hundreds of trails provide endless opportunities to explore. With the expert guidance of local author Rob Rachowiecki, you'll experience 38 five-star hiking trails, for all levels and interests, divided into six distinct areas in and around the city.

Bag a peak, or take a dip in a swimming hole. Immerse yourself in the region's American Indian history, or wander among towering rock formations. With ratings for scenery, difficulty, trail condition, solitude, and accessibility for children, you can find your perfect outings with just a glance. GPS-based trail maps, elevation profiles, and detailed directions to trailheads help to ensure that you always know where you are and where to go. Insights into the history, flora, and fauna of the routes entertain and educate while you are out on the trails.

Save time and make the most of your hiking adventures. Experience the best of Tucson's breathtaking scenery, varied terrain, and amazing wildlife. Lace up, grab your pack, and hit the trail!

Five-Star Trails: Tucson

by Rob Rachowiecki

Published 18 February 2014
Tucson lies in a saguaro-studded desert basin surrounded by four mountain ranges and book-ended by two national parks. In an hour you can drive from an arid canyon in the Arizona-Sonora desert to a pine-forested mountain at 9000 feet. Hiking trails are plentiful and as varied as the terrain. Five-Star Trails: Tucson by Rob Rachowiecki guides hikers to diverse trails suitable for anyone from wheelchair-using nature lovers to those looking for an all-day workout. Sized to fit in a pocket, this guide is convenient to keep in the car or toss into a backpack. Driving directions steer hikers to the nearest trailhead parking areas, including GPS trailhead coordinates to get them to the start of the trail. Each trail has been thoroughly researched, recently hiked and includes detailed descriptions, trail profiles and maps. At a glance categorical ratings, such as scenery, trail condition, difficulty, solitude and kid-friendliness, let you quickly select a trail that fits your tastes and ability. Other key information such as fees, restrictions for dogs as well as advice on when to visit offers you the best information so you can plan your trip with ease.