Picacho Peak State Park is a landmark that is sure to catch your eye as you approach JTH Tucson from the East. The peak has a distinct shape that always reminds us of a sombrero.
This park is famous for springtime wildflowers, which cover the hillsides in vivid colors after rainy winters. This year’s super bloom has been epic at Picacho. The blooms are expected to last until the end of the month, but even if you don’t make it out for wildflower season, this is a fun hiking spot for anytime of year.
There are five different hiking trails in Picacho Peak State Park, ranging from quick & easy to technically difficult. If you only have time for one, we recommend Sunset Vista Trail. Sunset Vista is about three miles long in each direction. The first two miles are rated moderate. There’s a bit of loose rocks making the trail slippery in some areas, and it does have some hills to climb up and down. The last mile of trail becomes quite difficult as you ascend the peak using steel cables. Luckily, there’s plenty of fantastic views along the way even if you don’t reach the summit. We even spotted some wild horses grazing amongst the wildflowers way out in the valley below us. Walk as long as you feel comfortable and then turn back.
Trail Info for Sunset Vista Trail
Length
The route is 5.4 miles out and back. This trail is rated challenging, but the first couple of miles are moderate.
How to Access
Sunset Vista Trail is located in between Tucson and Phoenix at Picacho Peak State Park. It costs $7 to enter the park (unless you have a yearly pass), and they do accept credit cards. They only have one register, so if you are visiting during wildflower season, expect a wait as it often bottlenecks before the ranger station.
What to Bring
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.
This trail doesn’t have much shade, so be sure to lather up in sunscreen and pack your favorite sunhat.
You’ll need sturdy closed toed hiking shoes to help keep your grip on loose rocks. If you plan to do the cable climb, gloves are recommended.
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.
If you are visiting during poppy season, take special care not to trample or pick the poppies or other wildflowers. Wildflowers used to blanket the west, and now are really only found in protected pockets. They need the actual flower in order to seed- so it is important to protect them in order to enjoy them in the future!
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Check out some of our other trail guides for hikes in the west side of Tucson, AZ: Hugh Norris Trail, & Valley View Trail.
