King Canyon Petroglyph Hike
View Photos
King Canyon Petroglyph Hike
Difficulty Rating:
The King Canyon Petroglyph Hike is an easy, heavily trafficked trail in Saguaro National Park West near Tucson. On this route, you’ll hike through a collection of prickly pear, ocotillo, and saguaros en route to petroglyphs. This is a very rewarding hike that’s generally suitable for active kids and strong beginners. If you’re having trouble locating the petroglyphs, look for a park ranger to point them out to you.
Getting there
The trailhead for the King Canyon Petroglyph hike is off Kinney Road.
About
| Backcountry Campground | No |
| When to do | October-May |
| Pets allowed | No |
| Family friendly | Yes |
| Route Signage | Good |
| Crowd Levels | High |
| Route Type | Out and back |
King Canyon Petroglyph Hike
Elevation Graph
Weather
King Canyon Petroglyph Hike Description
The hike along King Canyon Trail is an interesting trip with a unique historical find to discover on the way. This route takes you to a site with petroglyphs, and you can also take a breather at the Mam-a-Gah Picnic Area to make an afternoon out of it. This hike is easy enough for families and beginners. Strong hikers can continue up to Wasson Peak.
Dogs are not permitted on this route whether leashed or not. There is a modest day-use fee required for the park and for this trail. Remember to pack water and consider sun protection.
The parking area is off N Kinney Road. It does fill up in busier months, so try to arrive early if you can. There are no restrooms and no water at the trailhead. From the parking lot, take the obvious wide path. There is a split just a few steps in where you’ll stay right onto King Canyon Trail. Continue through the gate about 200 feet in. The route is rocky, so you’ll be glad if you wore good boots. 0.6 miles in, take in the view of the canyon from a ledge on the trail. To get to the petroglyphs, go down into the wash and take a left to hike into the foothills.
When you’re ready, use the same route to get back to the trailhead.
Similar hikes to the King Canyon Petroglyph Hike hike
Shantz, Cholla, and Cactus Forest Loop
The Shantz, Cholla, and Cactus Forest Loop is an easy trail in Tucson’s Saguaro National Park East. The star of…
Cactus Forest, Squeeze Pen, and Pink Hill Loop
The Cactus Forest, Squeeze Pen, and Pink Hill Loop is an easy trail in Tucson’s Saguaro National Park East. This…
Hugh Norris, Sendero Esperanza, and Dobbie Wash Loop
The Hugh Norris, Sendero Esperanza, and Dobbie Wash Loop is a bit of a mouthful, but it’s a great hike…
Comments