Near Sweetwater Trail
View west from the saddle below Wasson Peak
Near Sweetwater Trail
Mount Lemmon from the Sweetwater Trail
Near Sweetwater Trail
Cholla blossoms.
Near Sweetwater Trail
Cacti blossoms over Tucson.
Near Sweetwater Trail
Saguaro Cactus surround the trailhead.

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Driving Directions
Hike Trail

Sweetwater Trail

4.5 (13 Ratings)
A very popular trail in the Tucson Mountain range.
3.3
mi
Distance
1,179
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
ViewsWildflowers
Access Issues
As with all lower elevation trails in this area. June through September may be too hot for a comfortable rxh. Many choose to rxh this trail at night during this time. However, there are no seasonal closures in Saguaro National Park.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
3.34mi
Distance
1,179ft
Elevation Gain
126ft
Elevation Loss
20%
Max Grade
3,858ft
High Point
2,804ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
The beginning of this trail is marked by a large, paved parking lot. After less than 1/2 mile into the hike, you'll come to an intersection. Turn left to continue on Sweetwater Trail. The next section of the trail will take you through a large wash and into a canyon that the trail stays in for the remainder of the hike. After the wash and a quick set of switchbacks, the trail stays at a consistent grade all the way to the Sweetwater Saddle. As you make your way up the trail, don't forget to look back for a unique view of the Santa Catalina Mountains! The high canyon walls block out most of the city to provide a perfect natural frame. The end of the trail is marked by a large, open area and an intersection with King Canyon Trail.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
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Nearby Hike Routes

Wasson Peak Summit

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Wasson Peak Summit

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+2,179 ft
Thunderbird Trail

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Thunderbird Trail

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+538 ft
Wildflower Ridge Loop

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Wildflower Ridge Loop

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Wasson Peak Circle Route

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Wasson Peak Circle Route

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strenuous
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+1,955 ft
Safford Peak

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Safford Peak

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+1,630 ft
Brown Mountain

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Brown Mountain

Views
strenuous
5 mi
+1,216 ft
Contributors
Austin Thomas