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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very Easy
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.
31 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
1.6 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.
0.5h
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

Catalina Nature Trail

Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Catalina Nature Trail is a laidback adventure in Tucson’s popular Catalina State Park. This trail heads up into the hills of the park, which are absolutely covered in saguaros. It’s a quick win that offers nice views for very little distance and elevation gain. Keep your eyes peeled and you can spot roadrunners, lizards, and many species of birds. This is a nice trail to pair with a picnic in the state park, especially since it’s a short hike and you’ll need to pay a small entrance fee to use the park.

Route Description for Catalina Nature Trail

For anyone spending the day in Catalina State Park, the Catalina Nature Trail makes for a great, easy outing into the sea of saguaros that cover the hills above the river. This loop is suitable for all skill levels and ages and can be done on its own as a quick, kid-friendly trip, or you can use it as a warm-up for longer adventures in the park. We love a picnic by the river after hikes in this area, too.

You won’t need any special gear for this hike, but do remember to always take water with you when hiking in the hot Arizona sun. Dogs are permitted on this trail as long as they’re kept on leash, and you’ll see plenty of dogs in Catalina State Park thanks to its status as one of the only dog-friendly major parks in the Tucson area.

From the Sutherland Trailhead, hike north on the Nature Trail. At the split, stay right. All the climbing you’ll need to do (which isn’t much), happens in the first bit of the hike, so once you’re in the loop, it’s an easy trip. Enjoy the cacti, the river below, and the plants and animals that line your trail. With no junctions to consider, it’s easy to navigate to the end of the loop and return to the trailhead.

Getting to the Catalina Nature Trail Trailhead

The trailhead for Catalina Nature Trail is at the end of Catalina State Park Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    October-May

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Good

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Loop

Catalina Nature Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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