Saguaro Vista, Spine, and Desperado Loop
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Saguaro Vista, Spine, and Desperado Loop
Difficulty Rating:
The Saguaro Vista, Spine, and Desperado Loop is a 3.1mi hike that shows off the special scenery of Tucson’s Sweetwater Preserve on a non-challenging trail. Enjoy the massive saguaros that flank the hills and the mountain views in the distance. There are some sections of the route that have loose rocks, but otherwise, it’s a fairly straightforward adventure. Dogs are permitted on this trail as long as they’re on leash.
Getting there
The trailhead for the Saguaro Vista, Spine, and Desperado Loop is past the end of N Tortolita Road.
About
| Backcountry Campground | No |
| When to do | October-May |
| Pets allowed | Yes - On Leash |
| Family friendly | Yes |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Moderate |
| Route Type | Loop |
Saguaro Vista, Spine, and Desperado Loop
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Saguaro Vista, Spine, and Desperado Loop Description
The Saguaro Vista, Spine, and Desperado Loop is a wonderful easy Tucson’s Sweetwater Preserve, a recreational park with notable desert views. With massive saguaros, the chance to spot wildlife, and lighter crowds than some of the park’s other trails, this is a great adventure. It’s good for kids, beginners, and hikers of all skill levels. Expect moderate traffic.
Part of this trail (the Spine) has loose, rocky footing, so be mindful of your step and consider wearing sturdy boots or bringing poles. Bring lots of water and try to time your hike outside of the heat of the day.
From the trailhead, take Saguaro Vista Trail on your right. Stay left at the first junction and enjoy the namesake of the trail, the saguaros that dot this part of the desert. Stay left at the fork and admire the low peaks around you. The route dips just outside the preserve and then doubles back. Stay right onto the Spine, hiking parallel to Sweetwater Wash. Go left onto Wildflower Ridge Trail and stay left twice as you make your way back to the trailhead.
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