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A very popular trail in the Tucson Mountain range.


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Map Key

3.5

Miles

5.6

KM

Point to Point

3,866' 1,178 m

High

2,810' 856 m

Low

1,158' 353 m

Up

101' 31 m

Down

7%

Avg Grade (4°)

24%

Max Grade (14°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Views · Wildflowers

As with all lower elevation trails in this area. June through September may be too hot for a comfortable hike. Many choose to hike this trail at night during this time. However, there are no seasonal closures in Saguaro National Park.

Description

The beginning of this trail is marked by a large, paved parking lot. After less than 1/2 mile into the hike, you'll come to an intersection.

Turn left to continue on Sweetwater Trail. The next section of the trail will take you through a large wash and into a canyon that the trail stays in for the remainder of the hike. After the wash and a quick set of switchbacks, the trail stays at a consistent grade all the way to the Sweetwater Saddle.

As you make your way up the trail, don't forget to look back for a unique view of the Santa Catalina Mountains! The high canyon walls block out most of the city to provide a perfect natural frame.

The end of the trail is marked by a large, open area and an intersection with King Canyon Trail.

Flora & Fauna

Watch your step! Rattlesnakes like to get some sun in the middle of the trail.

Contacts

Shared By:

Austin Thomas

Trail Ratings

  4.5 from 13 votes

#1099

Overall
  4.5 from 13 votes
5 Star
54%
4 Star
38%
3 Star
8%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#55

in Arizona

#1,099

Overall
29 Views Last Month
4,206 Since May 5, 2015
Intermediate Intermediate

8%
8%
50%
17%
17%
0%

Photos

Cholla blossoms.
May 5, 2015 near Tucson…, AZ
Mount Lemmon from the Sweetwater Trail
Mar 28, 2018 near Tucson…, AZ
Saguaro Cactus surround the trailhead.
Aug 2, 2017 near Flowing…, AZ
Cacti blossoms over Tucson.
May 5, 2015 near Tucson…, AZ
Saddle before heading up to Wasson Peak.
Aug 2, 2017 near Tucson…, AZ
Overshadowed by the plentiful saguaros, the ocotillos of the National Park are big and colorful.
Apr 3, 2016 near Flowing…, AZ

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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

All Clear 33 days ago
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