Picacho Peak State Park is a worth-it spot for a destination run. Located a 40-minute drive from Tuscon, this a is a lovely spot to experience the magic of the Sonoroan Desert. There’s beautiful desert scenery, the impressive 3,374-foot Picacho Peak, and, in season, gorgeous wildflowers. There’s also a nice variety of running, from easy to challenging. PRO TIP: Wildflower Information. The park has a visitor center & facilities.
For running, there are several miles of trails. ranging from easy to challenging.
Easiest Run: Park Road Trail. A gravel trail runs alongside the Park Road (3.8 miles out & back, 300-foot gain).
Moderate Trail Run: Sunset Vista Trail. Starts at the end of the Park Road and travels on the south side of Picacho Peak. It’s moderate for 2 miles and then challenging for 0.6 miles as it joins the Hunter Trail to the peak.
Challenging Trail Run: Hunter Trail. A difficult 1.6-mile trail that begins on the north side from Barrett Loop and goes to the top of the peak. 1352 foot elevation gain, rugged surface.
Picacho Peak State Park is a worth-it spot for a destination run. Located a 40-minute drive from Tuscon, this a is a lovely spot to experience the magic of the Sonoroan Desert. There’s beautiful desert scenery, the impressive 3,374-foot Picacho Peak, and, in season, gorgeous wildflowers. There’s also a nice variety of running, from easy to challenging. PRO TIP: Wildflower Information. The park has a visitor center & facilities.
For running, there are several miles of trails. ranging from easy to challenging.
Easiest Run: Park Road Trail. A gravel trail runs alongside the Park Road (3.8 miles out & back, 300-foot gain).
Moderate Trail Run: Sunset Vista Trail. Starts at the end of the Park Road and travels on the south side of Picacho Peak. It’s moderate for 2 miles and then challenging for 0.6 miles as it joins the Hunter Trail to the peak.
Challenging Trail Run: Hunter Trail. A difficult 1.6-mile trail that begins on the north side from Barrett Loop and goes to the top of the peak. 1352 foot elevation gain, rugged surface.
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