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!
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Tucson Mts: Brown Mountain LoopBrown Mountain Trail Picnic Area and Trailhead, Tucson, AZ
• 4.5 miles total (loop)
• Total elevation gain: 900'
• Rating: Intermediate
**RESTRICTIONS: No guests, dogs, firearms or tobacco/vaping
• Cell phones SILENT during hike
Be sure to bring adequate water and snacks.
Trail head location
Route on AllTrailsThis hike starts with a climb up the southeast side of the south peak of Brown Mt. via a series of switchbacks. The trail then winds its way along the ridge, where we can stop and take in the views. It then crosses the saddle to the north peak before winding down along the east side on a series of switchbacks to the wash, which is the same as the starting elevation. Here we will cross the wash to the Juan Santa Cruz Picnic Area for a rest stop and snack.
There is drinking water and rest rooms at the picnic area.After snacks, the hike finishes up with a gently rolling to flat meander above and along the wash to the starting point.
This hike will provide great views of the Tucson Mountains to the north, including the Red Rock area of the Western District of Saguaro National Park. We will also get great views of Golden Gate Peak and Cat Mountain to the east, as well as expansive views to the south towards Kit Peak and the Baboquivari Mountains.
Add to that the ever-present beauty of typical Sonoran Desert vegetation: Palo Verde, Beaver-tail cactus, Cholla, and some really big Saguaros, and it all adds up to a great way to see a lot in a short hike.RSVP etiquette:
• Sign up only if you really intend to come
• If you need to cancel, do so BEFORE the RSVP deadline so someone can get your spot
• If you change your mind, take yourself off the Going or Wait list
• Please don't be a no-show
Be sure to bring adequate water, food, trekking poles, etc.
As always - Hike at Your Own Risk
Questions?
Cell: 304.290.8066
WV-Mike
Hike Organizer for:
Tucson Hiking Meetup Group
Old Pueblo Hiking Group - Sabino Canyon full Phoneline Trail (intermediate plus)Sabino Canyon Recreation Area, Tucson, AZ
Phoneline is one of the best trails in the Sabino Canyon area. Roughly parallel to the tram road, it's a few hundred feet higher with spectacular views. In a few places there are steep drop-offs but no actual danger on the well-maintained trail.
Starting at the visitor center parking lot up, we begin by walking the dirt path towards Bear Canyon. We will pick up the Phoneline trail, which climbs gradually to its end above tram stop 9. Finally, we'll return via the tram road.
Here's the route in AllTrails: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/arizona/sabino-to-phoneline-loop
We will meet at the ramada in front of the Visitor Center.
RATING: Intermediate Plus
1 - About 9 miles total
2 - 1200' elevation gain
3 - Pace will be steady, but not aggressive. We will make time for pictures, conversation, etc. You should be able to do at least 2 mph up Phoneline, and around 3 mph down the tram road. (If you have done the 6pm Sabino Stroll, you're good!)
4 - There are a few places to break out and do a shorter loop. Also, you can take the tram back from stop 9. However, it is 5 miles to this point and there is a fee (I think $12) for the tram.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 recommendedLIABILITY / RULES:
1 - By RSVPing "Yes", you agree that you are hiking at your own risk.
2 - No firearms, dogs, tobacco or vaping products.
