Winter Hikes in Arizona

When people think of the Arizona desert, extreme heat is the first thing that comes to mind. However, winter in Arizona is a perfect time to take in the sights, sounds and smells of Arizona's Sonoran Desert.

Winters in the Arizona desert affords very comfortable temperatures, but keep in mind it is an extremely arid climate, so hydration is just as important during the winter months as it is in the heat of the summer. Another consideration is large temperature swings, so a variety of clothing may be required.

Here are three of the best winter hikes in the Tucson, Arizona area.

Romero Canyon Trail at Catalina State Park

Take the main road to the trailhead parking lot. The trail starts out with a short steep climb enough to raise your heart rate, but quickly levels out for about a half a mile or so. As the second climb starts, the view gets better and better all the way to the descent into Romero Pools. This is a great place to turn around as well as a great place to relax and enjoy a snack.

From Romero Pools it is approximately 2.5 miles each way. It is one of the few places water exists year round. The sound of water in the desert is always a treat and Romero Canyon is no exception. Start out early on the weekends because this is a very popular hike.

Directions to Catalina State Park from Phoenix: Take I-10 East towards Tucson. Exit I-10 at Tangerine (exit 240). Turn left on Tangerine for 13.5 miles to Oracle Road. Turn right on Oracle Road .7 miles, turn left into the park entrance. Catalina State Park address: 11570 North Oracle Road Tucson, Arizona 85737, (520) 628-5798.

Seven Falls at Sabino Canyon

Sabino Canyon located on the east side of Tucson is one of the most scenic places to view all the Sonoran Desert has to offer. The Seven Falls trail is properly named and perfect for even novice hikers. Regardless of your skill level, it is a sight that is worth seeing.

Park at furthest end from the entrance and take the wide dirt path: this the Bear Canyon Trail. When you reach the road, turn right onto the pavement. A few hundred yards down the road there is a road junction and restrooms. Turn right, and cross the bridge. At the end of the bridge there is a t-shaped intersection, and directly across is the Phoneline Trail. Turn right on the road.

Climb up the road to a picnic area. Shortly after the picnic area, the pavement ends and the trail begins. As the trail winds through the canyon, there are 7 stream crossings. Check trail conditions because in rainy years some of the stream crossings can be challenging. After the seventh crossing, the falls are about 20 minutes away. Of all the hikes I've done in Arizona, Seven Falls is one of my favorites.

Directions from Phoenix or Marana: Take I-10 East towards Tucson. Take exit 248 (Ina Road) and go east on Ina about 15 miles until Ina dead-ends at Sabino Canyon Road. (Ina Road becomes Skyline and Skyline becomes Sunrise) Turn left to the park entrance on your right. Sabino Canyon Address: 5900 N. Sabino Canyon Road Tucson, AZ (520) 749-2861.

Finger Rock Trail

This is one of the most challenging hikes in the Tucson area, but the hard work is absolutely worth the effort. The trail starts out fairly flat for the first mile, and then the switchbacks begin. Watch your footing because the trail is narrow and in spots very rocky. As the trail climbs up the canyon, the city comes into view at your back.

About 2 miles from the trailhead, there is a cutout in the rocks known as the cave. This is a great spot to rest or to enjoy a snack. The trail continues to climb to the top of Mount Kimball about 6 miles. If you're looking for a challenge, Finger Rock Trail is it.

Directions to the Finger Rock trailhead from Phoenix: Take I-10 East towards Tucson. Take exit 248 (Ina Road) and turn left onto Ina Road. Ina becomes Skyline Drive. Turn left to stay on Skyline. At Alvernon Way turn left then right to stay on Alvernon Way to the trailhead.

Proper Gear is Key

As I mentioned at the beginning, big temperature swings can occur especially starting out in the early morning hours. Morning temperatures can be chilly, but as the sun rises it can warm up quickly. A light fleece or light windbreaker is recommended for break time in case of windy conditions.

Proper footwear is critical when hiking in the Arizona desert. A sturdy hiking shoe or boot is highly recommended. I would not advise hiking any of afore mentioned trails in running shoes; they won't give you the support and traction necessary.

Don't forget to bring plenty of water, your camera, and of course a good snack. A nice peanut butter and jelly sandwich always tastes better on the trail. It doesn't get much better than hiking the Arizona desert.

Romero Canyon Trail: http://www.trails.com/tcatalog_trail.aspx?trailid=HGS226-071

http://azstateparks.com/Parks/CATA/index.html

Sabino Canyon: http://www.sabinocanyon.com/trail_bc.htm

http://sabinocanyon.org/sabino.htm

Finger Rock: http://www.localhikes.com/Hikes/FIngerRock_8520.asp