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Picacho Peak: Sunset Vista Trail


Highlights:

A steep hike up a historic summit
Near:Tucson, AZ
Scenery:
Distance:6.2 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:1680 ft
Hike Time:3.5 hours
Difficulty:Strenuous
Trail Condition:OK, but a few difficult spots
HikeType:Out and Back


Summary: This hike starts out gently but becomes very strenuous as it takes you up the southern face of the peak. You will find many short steep segments that are relieved by cables and handrails. The summit is the real draw of this peak. Commanding views of an approximately 78 mile radius make it worth the effort.
Trailhead: From Tucson, follow I-10 north for about 50 miles to the Picacho Peak State Park exit. The trailhead is located at the very end of the road. (Lat:32.65099 Lon:-111.42446)
Trail Guides for Picacho Peak: Sunset Vista Trail:
Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter,
User Groups: Hikers,
Ranger Contact: Picacho Peak State Park 520.466.3183
Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Jeff Branscum, who has posted  12 other hikes on this site
Trail Reviews  Submit your own review
Reviewed by bernie on 12/24/2006
I did Picacho earlier this year. The view from the summit is spectacular. One reminder...if you do this hike in the summer, take extra water. A few years back some folks died from dehydration on this hike.

Reviewed by Yvon on 12/14/2006
My Chicago friends likened it to rock climbing. The perfect hike as it is challenging but rewarding once you get to the top. It doesn't take forever but once you get up there you feel like you've really accomplished something.

Reviewed by PyrtHkr on 6/23/2006
The top section is not for the faint of heart but is very doable & I've seen hikers w/their dogs up there. You just wonder how long those cables & fence sections are gonna last! Your reward is probably one of the best views in southern AZ. Look into the Civil War history of the area while down there.

Reviewed by Chaz on 11/9/2005
Be ready for a steep climb in areas and take plenty of water. Gloves for the cables are an excellent idea, especially if it's hot outside. The good news is that the views are outstanding and you get that "top of the world" feeling as you look around at the 360 degree view. You can even do a partial loop on the Hunter Trail if you don't mind some road walking at the end.


Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site.
Keys: Arizona Hiking, Arizona Trails, Arizona Hikes, Pima County Hiking, Pima County Trails, Pima County Hikes

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