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EXPLORE | | | | | | | 1000 S Sentinel Peak Rd
Tucson,
AZ
85745
520-791-4873 | | | | | Description: WEST TUCSON. Officially called Sentinel Peak, this landmark is visible from all over town. The huge whitewashed "A" on the side of the mountain has been repainted every year since 1915 when ardent U of A fans initially showed their support. Drive to the top for an awesome view of the city and surrounding desert landscape. Tucson's annual Fourth of July fireworks display is launched from here as well.
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| Atturbury Bird and Animal Sanctuary8280 E Escalante Rd
Tucson,
AZ
85730
520-748-2725 | | | | | Description: EAST TUCSON. A 55-acre sanctuary situated right in the city it's not only a haven for wildlife, it's a peaceful retreat for people, too. A mile-long loop trail passes all manner of desert plant life mesquite, desert hackberry, fishhook barrel cactus and catclaw acacia to name a few which harbor a wide variety of birds and other critters like cottontails and gila monsters. If you're planning to stroll through around midday, pack a lunch. The Desert Hummingbird and Butterfly Garden is an especially entertaining spot for a picnic.
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| 11570 N Oracle Rd
Tucson,
AZ
85740
520 628-5798 | | | | | Description: CATALINAS. About 20 miles north of downtown Tucson, this popular park offers gorgeous desert vistas and plenty of recreational activities that allow you to take in the scenic beauty of the area. Have a picnic at one of more than 100 picnic areas, hike one of numerous well-groomed trials, or participate in a geological dig. Camping, horseback riding and bird watching are also available.
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| Colossal Cave Mountain Park16721 E Old Spanish Trail
Vail,
AZ
85641
520-647-7275 | | | | | Description: SOUTHEAST ARIZONA. This dry cave in the Rincon Mountains east of Tucson offers tours that cover the extensive and colorful history of the cave. This tour is particularly popular during the hot summer months, when the cave maintains its cool temperature of 70 degrees, providing a respite from the desert heat. Try a trail ride on horseback, or visit the museum to learn more about the indigenous wildlife, such as bats and ringtailed cats. A butterfly garden and desert tortoise exhibit are other offerings. Reservations are suggested for the guided trail rides, which leave from La Posta Quemada Ranch.
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| Kartchner Caverns State ParkState Hwy 90
Benson,
AZ
85602
520-586-2283 | | | | | Description: SOUTHEAST ARIZONA. Although discovered by two amateur cavers in 1974, the existence of Kartchner Caverns was not commonly known until 1988 when the state purchased the caves and surrounding land for use as a public park. Guided tours last about 1 ½ hours, and lead guests past some of the most amazing and colorful cave formations in the world. The Rotunda/Throne Room tour is offered daily, year round; Big Room tours are offered daily, October 15 April 15, but due to the difficult terrain of this tour, children under 7 are not permitted. The park also features hiking trails, a Discovery Center and 62 campsites.
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Picacho,
AZ
85241
520-466-3183 | | | | | Description: MARANA. Picacho Peak often served as a landmark for early explorers, and the pass over its summit has been in use at least since Father Kino's days in the 17th century. The historically significant site was also the scene of a Civil War battle in 1862, an event which is reenacted by costumed performers every March. The land is dotted with the hardiest of desert plants, from mesquite and acacia trees to saguaro, prickly pear and cholla cacti. Hikers here are usually rewarded with sightings of at least of few animals, such as rabbits, mule deer, javelina, coyotes, ground squirrels, pack rats and lizards.
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| 5700 N Sabino Canyon Rd
Tucson,
AZ
85750
520-749-8700 | | | | | Description: EAST TUCSON. Situated on the northeast edge of town in the Catalina Mountains, Sabino Canyon is a popular year-round spot for walking and picnicking because it doesn't require a hike into the mountains. That's because a shuttle bus travels the 3.8 miles to the head of the canyon, making nine on/off stops along the way. Of course the Coronado National Forest is crisscrossed with many miles of trails that are great for hiking or horseback riding (and some are open to bicyclists as well), so if you have the urge to really get out in nature, this the perfect place to do it. Although not required, shuttle reservations are recommended during peak seasons call 520-749-2327.
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| 3693 S Old Spanish Trail
Tucson,
AZ
85730
520-733-5153 | | | | | Description: EAST TUCSON. Saguaro National Park is the only place in the world that protects the saguaro cactus, a symbol of Arizona that grows only in the Sonoran Desert. You can see the well-known plant as well as other types of desert life that have shown resilience in adapting to the harsh, sweltering environment. Enjoy the scenery from the air-conditioned comfort of your car or venture out for a breathtaking hike for an up-close look. The park is divided into East and West sections, each with a visitor center located about 15 miles from downtown Tucson. They both offer guided walking tours, informational exhibits, bookstore and restrooms. The Rincon Mountain center is east of town; the Tucson Mountain District Visitor's Center is west of town at 2700 N Kinney Rd, 520-733-5158.
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| 29th St and Ajo Wy
Tucson,
AZ
85701
520-877-6000 | | | | | Description: DOWNTOWN. Winding along the Santa Cruz, this park is a fun place to forget the woes of the day. The park features a very popular disc golf course (the oldest in town, incidentally), as well as the Garden of Gethsemane, a peaceful little corner created as a repository for the works of sculptor Felix Lucero. On Thursdays the Santa Cruz Farmers' Market sets up here, offering the best local fruits, vegetables and herbs. Be sure to stroll along El Paseo de los Arboles ("The Pathway of the Trees") a special memorial walk with beautiful tiled walls.
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| 2021 N Kinney Rd
Tucson,
AZ
85743
520-883-4200 | | | | | Description: WEST TUCSON. Within its boundaries, this 20,000 acre park has miles of hiking trails and numerous incredible desert vistas. If that sounds appealing, a hike up to Gates Pass will reward you with a charming stone gazebo from which to take in a stellar sunset view. Other outdoor activities within the park include horseback riding, picnic areas, camping and archery/rifle/pistol ranges. The park encompasses a wide variety of other attractions as well, such as the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum and Old Tucson Studios.
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