It’s easy to see why Seven Falls trail is one of the most popular trails in Tucson. It has a little bit of everything: beautiful mountains, saguaros, water … and it culminates at a breathtaking waterfall! The trail is located on the east side of Tucson, so about an hour drive from JTH Tucson. It makes a great day trip with a stop for lunch in the city before returning to the inn.
Seven Falls Trail is located in Sabino Canyon Recreation Area, nestled in the scenic Santa Catalina mountain range. You’ll park at the visitor’s center, and then have the option of either taking a shuttle or walking to the trail head. It’s an 8.2 mile out and back trail, but if you take the shuttle it’ll cut the length to 4.6 miles.
This trail is a lot of fun, as it offers a variety of terrain to keep things interesting. You’ll zig zag back and forth across the stream 7 times, then climb up in elevation before finally coming down to the falls. Once you reach the falls, you can sunbathe on the rocks below and swim in the pools there.
Trail Info for Seven Falls
Length
The route is 8.2 miles out and back, or 4.6 miles if you take the shuttle to the trail head. Seven Falls Trail is rated Moderate and has a 917 ft. total elevation gain.
How to Access
Seven Falls Trail is located in East Tucson at the Sabino Canyon Recreation Area, it costs a $8 to enter the recreation area (unless you have a yearly pass). If you’d like to take the shuttle to the trail head, we’d recommend purchasing your ticket in advance.
What to Bring
Be sure to check water levels before you go to make sure the falls are flowing, as they can dry out during dryer seasons. Too much rain can also be an issue—during monsoon season, the trail can be inaccessible and flash floods can make the area dangerous.
As always when exploring in the desert, it’s important to carry enough water for yourself and everyone in your party. Generally, you want 17 oz. of water for every hour you’re on a trail. You’ll find large ½ gallon green Stanley thermoses in the JTH Tucson pantry to borrow for your trek. Add some ice and fill them with water before heading out into the desert. We also recommend you lather up in sunscreen and pack your favorite sunhat. You’ll cross back and forth over water on this hike and at higher water times it can get very slippery, so bring water shoes. If you plan to swim at the base of the falls don’t forget your suit and towel!
Make a Day of it
While you’re in East Tucson be stop by to explore the historic buildings at Degrazia Gallery in the Sun Museum or grab a bite to eat a Charro Vida!
Check out some of our other trail guides for hikes near our Tucson, AZ inn: Hugh Norris Trail, & Valley View Trail.
Always remember to leave no trace: take only photographs, leave only footprints, pack out what you pack in, and stay on designated trails to help preserve the fragile ecosystem.
