What we’re about
Our group features hikes of variable length & ability. Beginner hikes range from 2 to 4 miles, while advanced hikes may be up to 16 miles and may feature bushwacking & rock scrambling. Beginner and moderate hikes usually are a mixed group between athletic pace and slow or moderate pace. Having fun talking, taking pictures, and admiring the beautiful Sonoran desert is all part of the package deal.
Many factors determine the difficulty of a hike: mileage, terrain, elevation, and pace. The hike rating scale that we have adopted is:
A - Extreme: no limit for distance or elevation
B - Advanced: maximum 16 miles or 3000' gain
C - Intermediate: maximum 8 miles or 1500' gain
D - Beginner: maximum 4 miles or 500' gain
This group is open to new members. We hope you'll join us!
Frequently asked questions about hiking with this group answered:
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1jADC4K2_gRzviAznMmQWzNAbpIhPCKIpcpEetyN_AVY/edit?usp=sharing
Organizer Chel has a hiking YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPXU-ZP9hbi0dnVkjVadrVg.
Want to help support the cost of the membership of this group and/or the YouTube channel?https://www.buymeacoffee.com/TucsonAreaHiking
Assistant Organizer Larry has a hiking blog: https://daringdayhikes.home.blog/
Assistant Organizer, Bruce L. has a Reddit group you can join! https://www.reddit.com/r/Tucson_backpacking/s/P438eFoxjJ
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Sabino Canyon Blackett's Ridge (Advanced)Sabino Canyon Recreation Area, Tucson, AZ
Things are looking down when you're on Blackett's Ridge. This short but intense hike has almost 1800' of elevation gain, with the views to make it worthwhile. You'll be able to see both Sabino and Bear Canyons, plus all of Tucson.
On the return trip, we'll visit that weird stone building on the hill next to the tram road. (It used to be part of a water supply system.)
Here's the route (Blackett's only) from AllTrails: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/arizona/blacketts-ridge-trail
We will meet at the ramada in front of the Visitor Center.
RATING: Advanced
1 - About 7 miles total
2 - 1800' elevation gain
3 - Light scrambling required, some steep narrow terrain
4 - Pace will be steady, but not aggressive. We will make time for pictures, conversation, etc.
PARKING FEE:
Do you have a valid Coronado National Forest pass? America the Beautiful Pass works too (senior, military, or other).
YES - Make sure it's visible inside your vehicle. Your parking is already paid for...that's it!
NO - Sabino has day & week passes available online: https://www.recreation.gov/sitepass/74388
You can also pay in-person via self pay station near Sabino Canyon's ramada (covered area near the parking lot.)
WHAT TO HAVE:
1 - Water (1-2 liters, make sure you have additional water during the summer)
2 - Lunch / snacks
3 - Hiking appropriate clothes AND shoes, for the weather
4 - Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, hiking poles recommended
LIABILITY / RULES:
1 - By RSVPing "Yes", you agree that you are hiking at your own risk.
2 - No firearms, dogs, tobacco or vaping products.