At the foot of the Santa Catalina Mountains in northeast Tucson, Sabino Canyon Recreation Area has desert trails, rocky gorges and a streamside habitat where saguaros grow among the hills. Choose a short walk, a longer hike or a narrated tram ride through the canyon, which stops at trailheads and picnic areas. The Sabino Dam walk is an easier option; Bear Canyon’s Seven Falls route is a longer outing with creek crossings. Watch for wildlife, and plan hikes around the heat, especially in warmer months.
Trails from easy walks to longer hikes
The recreation area has routes for different levels of effort, from paved paths to rocky trails. The walk to Sabino Dam is a shorter choice from the visitor center, with an easy incline. The dam is about a 15 to 20 minute walk from the parking lot. Water levels change with the season, and the stream can disappear during Tucson’s driest months, April through June.
For a more demanding day, the Bear Canyon to Seven Falls route is an out-and-back hike of about nine miles from the visitor center. The route includes seven creek crossings, with stones providing ways across. Check conditions before setting out and carry water for the hike.
Using the tram to reach the canyon
A narrated tram travels into Sabino and Upper Sabino Canyon, with stops where you can get off for trails, picnic areas and other access points. The ride takes about 45 minutes and has nine stops. It can be a practical way to see the canyon without walking the full route, and it also helps visitors with limited mobility reach parts of the area. Book ahead if you plan to ride, since tickets can sell out.
You can combine the tram with a hike by getting off at a stop near a trailhead. Some hikers take it back after walking into the canyon. Check the tram route and ticket arrangements before your visit.
Wildlife and desert habitat
Sabino Canyon sits in Coronado National Forest, at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains. Rocky gorges, streamside areas and hillsides dotted with saguaros make up much of the scenery. The canyon’s riparian habitat supports wildlife, including tortoises, deer and javelina. Other animals in the area include skunks, owls, rattlesnakes and mountain lions, so give wildlife space and watch where you step.
The stream and falls depend on conditions, so do not plan a visit around finding water at every stop. The Sabino Dam area is a convenient place for a short walk and a picnic when water is present.
Perguntas frequentes
Is there an entry fee for Sabino Canyon?
A day-use fee applies. You can bring a National Park Pass or pay the day-use fee.
How long is the narrated tram ride?
The narrated ride takes about 45 minutes and has nine stops in the canyon.
Are dogs allowed in Sabino Canyon?
No. Dogs are not allowed in the recreation area, including on the Seven Falls Trail.
Can you hike to Seven Falls from the visitor center?
Yes. The Bear Canyon to Seven Falls route is an out-and-back hike of about nine miles from the visitor center, with seven creek crossings.
