Best Backpacking Destinations in Tucson, United States

1. Saguaro National Park East

A vast desert landscape with giant cacti and diverse wildlife, offering excellent hiking trails for backpackers.

A dense grove of cholla cacti with easy access and short hiking trails, perfect for beginner backpackers.

Unique Flora: Get up close to these fascinating, spiny cacti.
Accessibility: Easy access for a quick, educational experience.
Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning photos of the cholla cactus garden.

A popular hiking destination with panoramic city and mountain views at its summit.

Urban Hike: Enjoy a mix of urban and natural scenery.
Elevation Gain: Challenge yourself with the steep ascent to the top.
Historical Research: Learn about ancient Hohokam civilization remnants along the trail.

An expansive wilderness area offering numerous backcountry trails and opportunities for solitude.

Backcountry Trails: Explore remote, less-traveled trails in the wilderness.
Wildlife Viewing: Spot various desert creatures such as javelinas, mountain lions, and bobcats.
Summit Bagging: Reach the summit of Rincon Peak for breathtaking views.

A winding mountain road offering scenic views, hiking trails, and a high-elevation retreat.

Scenic Drive: Experience dramatic changes in scenery as you ascend the mountains.
Hiking Opportunities: Take advantage of numerous hiking trails along the byway.
Cooler Climate: Enjoy a cooler, refreshing change from the desert heat.

A scenic overlook with panoramic views of Tucson and the Sonoran Desert below.

Scenic Overlook: Capture stunning photos of Tucson's urban and natural landscapes.
Geology Appreciation: Study the various rock formations created by millions of years of erosion.
Hiking Trails: Explore nearby trails for a closer look at the desert terrain.

A family-friendly park with hiking trails, picnic areas, and mountain views.

Family-Friendly Activities: Offers fun for all ages, from easy nature walks to more challenging hikes.
Wildlife Viewing: Spot native Arizona wildlife such as deer, javelina, and various bird species.
Mountain Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Catalina Mountains.

An ancient Hohokam settlement showcasing well-preserved adobe structures and petroglyphs.

Historical Significance: Learn about the rich history of the Hohokam civilization.
Petroglyphs: Discover ancient rock art created by the Hohokam people.
Archaeological Study: Gain insights into the lives of these early desert dwellers.

A popular hiking destination in Saguaro National Park West with stunning desert vistas.

Panoramic Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Sonoran Desert from the summit.
Challenging Hike: Test your endurance on this moderately difficult hike.
Desert Wildlife: Spot native Arizona wildlife along the trail, such as javelinas and coyotes.

A historic ranch turned nature preserve with hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and petroglyphs.

Historical Preserve: Explore a piece of Tucson's pioneer history.
Wildlife Viewing: Spot native Arizona wildlife such as deer, javelina, and various bird species.
Petroglyphs: Discover ancient rock art created by the Hohokam people.

A challenging rock climbing and scrambling area with spectacular desert views.

Rock Climbing Opportunities: Test your climbing skills on various routes.
Stunning Views: Take in breathtaking views of the Sonoran Desert from the summit.
Adventure Seekers: For those who seek a more thrilling outdoor experience.

A remote wilderness area offering numerous backcountry trails and solitude.

Backcountry Trails: Explore remote, less-traveled trails in the wilderness.
Wildlife Viewing: Spot various desert creatures such as mountain lions, javelinas, and bobcats.
Summit Bagging: Reach the summit of Pusch Ridge for breathtaking views.

A moderately difficult hike leading to stunning views of Mount Lemmon and the surrounding area.

Challenging Hike: Test your endurance on this moderately difficult hike.
Scenic Views: Take in breathtaking views of Mount Lemmon and the surrounding area.
Wildlife Viewing: Spot native Arizona wildlife such as deer, javelina, and various bird species.

A challenging hike leading to a historic stagecoach station in the Santa Catalina Mountains.

Historical Significance: Learn about Tucson's frontier history at Walter's Station.
Challenging Hike: Test your endurance on this challenging hike.
Mountain Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Santa Catalina Mountains.

A technical rock scramble with panoramic views of Tucson and the surrounding desert.

Rock Scrambling: Test your technical rock climbing skills on this challenging trail.
Stunning Views: Take in breathtaking views of Tucson and the surrounding desert from the summit.
Adventure Seekers: For those who seek a more thrilling outdoor experience.