Create an account sign-up-diamond

Start your adventure today.

Already a member? Login

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
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.
402 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
14.5 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.
3.5-5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Be the first to add a review!
Directions to Trailhead

Sabino to Phoneline Loop

Measurement:

Download an interactive map and guide on your phone today!

Table of contents

The Sabino to Phoneline Loop leads you through the Sabino Canyon on both sides. The Sabino Canyon is known for its natural beauty and biodiversity. This moderately difficult trail is awesome for its ease of access from the city and for its diverse, beautiful terrain. You’ll hike next to towering saguaros and prickly pears and can look for birds, javelina, and bighorn sheep. Expect heavy traffic.

Route Description for Sabino to Phoneline Loop

The Sabino to Phoneline Loop is a perfect way to explore the Sabino Canyon since you’ll hike both sides of the canyon in a loop. The views are excellent and there’s an impressive array of plant and animal species to look for. This hike is a bit longer, but the elevation gain should be suitable for strong beginners and better. Depending on the season, you may enjoy wildflowers on the trail. For this reason, we like this hike in the spring when the hills are in bloom.

This area can get very hot during the heat of the day, so start your hike early. Also, bring more water than you think you might need. This route doesn’t allow dogs, so leave your pups at home. You’ll need to pay a small fee to access Sabino Canyon, but once you’re parked, look for the trailhead southeast of the visitor center.

Take the Sabino Walkway into the wash and then into the canyon. Your outbound trip follows the canyon floor. There are restroom facilities partway up if you need them, and you might see the tram go by (the narrated tram ride is a fun way to learn more about the canyon). After the final tram stop and the end of the road, take the switchbacks up the canyon wall and then go right to return to the trailhead via Phoneline Trail, giving you a bit more elevation to check out the views from. This will lead you back to the visitor center.

Getting to the Sabino to Phoneline Loop Trailhead

The trailhead for the Sabino to Phoneline Loop is in the parking area for the Sabino Canyon Visitor Center.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    October-May

  • Pets allowed:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Loop

Sabino to Phoneline Loop Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

Reviews

0.0
No reviews
Write a review
×

Add a review

You must be logged in to post a comment.

WE ARE HERE TO HELP

Let someone else do the hard work, book a custom tour in over 85 countries.

Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!

10Adventures Trail App

Take your trails online! Keep track of your route along the way.

Download for free today.

Get travel inspiration and discounts

Join our weekly travel newsletter