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
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- Wilderness of Rocks Loop HikeLe Buzz, Tucson, AZ
The third hike in my training series, we will hike a 9.7 miles loop combining the Mt Lemmon Trail, Wilderness of Rocks, and Aspen Trail on May 11th.
Here is the trail route and profile
Wilderness of Rocks CCW Loop
This track is showing a counterclockwise (CCW) loop, but I am considering doing a clockwise loop. Depends on the weather. We can decide later.Let us meet at 6am at Le Buzz (9121 E Tanque Verde Rd #125, Tucson, AZ 85749) on May 11th for carpooling and caravan to Ski Valley. We will park at the top of Ski Valley Mt Lemmon Trailhead. It is a fee parking lot. Please bring your parking pass (either the National Park pass or the Coronado Forest Pass would work). Parking is very tight at that lot. Carpooling is highly recommended.
Aspen Trail and most parts of Mt Lemmon Trail have not much shade. Please make sure to be prepared. Bring a sun hat, a lot of water, snacks and lunch.
After the hike, we can stop by Summer Haven for a drink or cookie if the group is interested.
Let me know if you can join us.
- Introduction to Trail Monitoring HikeApache Springs Trailhead, Sonoita, AZ
Are you interested in learning about the AZT, ATA, and trail assessment? This morning hike on the AZT is just the ticket!
Join an experienced volunteer steward on this stroll along a segment of the brand new AZT passage 4; Casa Blanca Canyons. Find out how to easily monitor conditions when you're on the trail and how you can support the ATA in managing the 800-mile AZT.
HIKE DISTANCE: 5 miles, at a leisurely pace
BREAK: For lunch on the trail
WHAT TO BRING/HAVE:- Lunch
- Snacks
- Sun protection
- Wear hiking clothes and shoes
- Plenty of water (At least 2 liters)
Leashed dogs are welcome!
GOOGLE MAP LOCATION LINK & TIME: We will meet at the Apache Springs Trailhead in Sonoita, Arizona at 8 am and will be back there no later than 1 pm.
REQUIRED REGISTRATION FOR THIS EVENT:
After signing up here, please go to the below link to register.
Click HERE to registerPARKING: There is plenty of parking at the trailhead. Trailhead is accessible via Gardner Canyon Rd. which is primitive but passable by passenger vehicle.
QUESTIONS: contact Kathleen; kebart@gmail.com
Not open - Seven Falls (Advanced)Sabino Canyon Recreation Area, Tucson, AZ
Join us for one of Sabino Canyon's signature hikes! We'll meet at the ramada in front of the Sabino Canyon Visitor Center.
The Seven Falls Trail is an out-and-back, 8.5 miles and 1100' of elevation gain. I rate it as "advanced" because it features several stream crossings.
We'll have lunch by the large pool at Seven Falls. Swimming / wading is possible. The water will be cold.
Bring a swimsuit if you want, a towel is recommended whether or not you swim. Consider hiking boots AND sandals / water shoes.
- Chel's video of the Pool / Falls area at TUCSON'S BEST WATERFALL - Seven Falls in Sabino Canyon (youtube.com)
- Trail route
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: at least 2 - 3 liters
2 - Lunch / snacks
3 - Hiking appropriate clothes AND shoes, for the weather
4 - Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, hiking poles recommendedLIABILITY / RULES:
1 - By RSVPing "Yes", you agree that you are hiking at your own risk.
2 - No firearms, dogs, tobacco or vaping products.