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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Hard
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
855 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
14.2 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
5-7h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Agua Caliente Hill Trail

Measurement:

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Table of contents

Agua Caliente Hill Trail is a great hike in the Tucson area. This route is nestled between the Pusch Ridge Wilderness and Saguaro National Park East, so the scenery pulls together the best of both areas. As one of the relatively few dog-friendly trails in the Tucson area, this hike is a favourite with local dog owners. Expect 8.8mi of difficult trail, with the difficulty increasing as you near the end of the route.

Route Description for Agua Caliente Hill Trail

Agua Caliente Hill Trail is an almost 14.5 km hike located south of the Pusch Ridge Wilderness and north of Saguaro National Park East. This route offers excellent Sonoran Desert scenery and as one of the few dog-friendly trails in the Tucson area, it’s a go-to for local hikers with dogs in tow. The trail gets more difficult as you near the end, so beginners can still enjoy a trip out and just turn back when they’ve had enough for the day.

This route can get very caliente, so we recommend starting your hike early in the day and bringing lots of water (including for your dog). Avoid this route in the hot summertime. Additionally, sturdy boots will be helpful towards the end where the trail gets especially rocky.

From the trailhead, hike towards the base of the hill to the east and begin ascending the ridge. Switchbacks help you along in different spots along the hike, but sometimes you will need to gain elevation on straighter, steeper stretches. Dip over the shallow canyon that separates this ridge from the one north of it and complete the final few switchbacks to approach the top of Agua Caliente Hill. From here, you’ll retrace your steps.

Getting to the Agua Caliente Hill Trail Trailhead

The trailhead for Agua Caliente Hill Trail is off N Camino Cantil.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    October-May

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Agua Caliente Hill Trail Elevation Graph

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