We worked in Southern Arizona for a few months and were able to find some perfect spots for day hiking in Tucson. Tucson has a lot to offer when it comes to outdoor adventures but we have two hikes that quickly became our go-to for a quick workout with amazing views.

Both hiking trails are the perfect mix of challenging but not too crazy while also offering a Tucson vibe. So if you find yourself looking for the best day hikes in Tucson, check out our two favorites.

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Tumamoc Hill

Owned by the University of Arizona is the Desert Laboratory of Tumamoc Hill. We're not sure what exactly the "Desert Laboratory" is but the hill itself is the perfect day hike.

About

The hike is three miles round trip on a paved path. It is very important you stay on the path and to not disrupt the desert around you.

Overall the hike is decently intense starting at a gradual incline but increasing in steepness towards the top. There are switchbacks as it gets steeper which helps but you will still feel the incline.

For parking, you can find a spot on the streets by the trailhead. It is also a very busy path and parking can get pretty full so start it early in the day to avoid the crowds.

No matter where you are staying in Tucson, Tumamoc Hill is a short drive as it is pretty centrally located.

Why We Love It

The steep hills bring the intensity up quickly but can be easily self-regulated. There are plenty of benches if rest breaks are needed and a water station for refills along the way.

Plus with the hike opening at four in the morning, you can get an early morning workout. The last part that we like is the paved aspect since we love running and can turn the hike into a hill training run very easily.

"A" Mountain

Technically known as Sentinel Peak, "A" mountain has the nickname from the giant A located at the top. We're not exactly sure why the "A" was put there but we heard it was students from the University of Arizona.

About

There are gates leading up the mountain that opens after nine in the morning but if you are going by bike or foot you are allowed to get through earlier (at least we did). Once you get to the "A" part there is a small trail that takes you to the top slightly behind the A.

The path is mostly a road but at the top, there are lots of little trails to explore. Walking up from the lower parking lot and back is about a mile. With all the trail exploring to be done at the top, you can easily do about two miles total roundtrip.

To get there you want to take the Sentinel Peak Road up to the park. For parking, there is a lot located before the gate up Sentinel Peak Road.

If you choose to drive up to the top, there is some limited parking but you have to make sure you get there early.

Why We Love It

The view of Tucson is pretty unmatched for what you get at "A" mountain. It is also a quick, easy hike that still gives you a workout.

At the top, there is a stone bench perfect for relaxing or in our case, silly yoga poses. An added bonus is if you get there before 9 am, you will likely have the whole mountain to yourself!

Having Fun Hiking in the Desert

We love a quick, easy hike and since we've worked in the Tucson area several times, it was nice having some go-tos.

As with any hiking trail in Tucson, you need to remember you are in the desert. Bring plenty of water and sun protection. Neither of these hikes requires a pack but we brought along our go-to minimalist water pack which was a big help for hydration.

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