Hiking Hotspot: Tucson’s Hidden Canyon Bowen Trail

The eclectic Southwestern city of Tucson is surrounded by 4 beautiful mountain ranges: the Rincons, the Santa Catalinas, the Santa Ritas, and the Tucson mountains. Since relocating here from Flagstaff, I have been enjoying the change in scenery. I’ve traded beautiful pine forests for cacti but really I find beauty in both. This is one of the only places you can see Saguaro cacti, native only to the Sonoran Desert.

This region really is an underrated hiking destination and I have really enjoyed the variety of trails here. Of course, there are some hikes which I come back to time and time again for the easily accessible and beautiful views including an underrated gem called the Hidden Canyon Bowen trail. This is the one to pick if you are interested in seeing lots of cacti.

While Saguaro National Park is amazing, admission is also pricey and it can get congested during the winter months with snowbirds & tourist. Fortunately, there are 100’s of miles of trails surrounding the city, including many hidden gems which cost absolutely nothing, yet still offer the same tremendous vistas of the Sonoran Desert. If you want to see a lot of cacti without going all out, I recommend hiking Hidden Canyon (my personal go-to for a weekend hike). I love the scenery, the solitude (it’s never crowded), and most of all, the opportunity to see so many cacti.

The natural gem of “The Old Pueblo”

One great alternative to hiking at the big congested parks is to opt for a local trail. This trail is so peaceful compared to Sabino Canyon and Saguaro. And hidden it is, as this beauty is located at the isolated JW Marriott Resort at Starr Pass. As this property is located a bit off-the-beaten path, the trail remains pretty isolated. Even if you are not staying at the resort, the drive is well worth it for the peaceful setting, gorgeous mountain scenery, and wildlife watching opportunities (bobcats and deer frequent the area). I’ve seen many deer and 2 bobcats after hiking endless times.

The trail is just 2 miles round-trip with little elevation gain, so I would say one of several options great for beginners as well as tolerable during the hot months. It’s one of the few trails where you will find yourself alone for the majority of the trail. You can really take your time here, enjoying the solitude and mountain scenery while exploring the various varieties of cacti that line the trail.

It’s one of the best places to see wildlife due to the secluded nature of the area, and I’ve seen several bobcats in the distance. Keep your distance from any wildlife especially snakes, javelina, and bobcats. Javelina are dangerous so don’t provoke them. Here’s some tips on what to do if you see javelina courtesy of AZ Game and Fish department. No pics of the bobcat unfortunately as I saw both from my car while driving in but I did capture this gorgeous deer just in time. They really blend in so you need to keep your eyes peeled.

Cacti Everywhere!

Is there anything more beautiful than a cactus? Ever since moving to suburban Oro Valley, I have really fallen in love with these plants. I have cacti plants all over my apartment and I hike several times a week just to take in the immense beauty. I love this trail because there are just so many cacti in every direction. It’s really a desert wonderland. If you have never hiked the desert before, you are in for a treat!

Why you should add this trail to your bucket List

I would say this short trail is one of the best bang-for-your-buck options considering the stunning mountain views and diversity variety of cacti you get to enjoy free of charge, and without a super intense trek required. This is also one of the better year-round trails – one of the few where you can still hike in the early morning hours of the summer season (just be sure to get out here early!).

In terms of scenery, solitude, wildlife watching, & ease of the trail, you really will not find much better. As a local of several years, I definitely approve and would recommend this hike to all first time visitors.

For anyone staying in town for a while, here are some more stunning places to add to your bucket list.

Hike Details

Location: Starts at the JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort – 3800 W Starr Pass Blvd.

Parking: Free street parking is available

Distance: 2 mile loop

Difficulty: Easy-moderate depending on your fitness level and time of year (summer will obviously be harder due to the heat and increased risk of dehydration)

Amenities: No water or restrooms at the trailhead. Bring a lot of water to prevent dehydration.

Pet policy: No dogs allowed.

Tips for a great hike

If possible, avoid hiking during the triple digit summer season – really, it’s not safe. I see stories all the time of hikers being rescued. If you must, set out early in the day (no later than 6-7am or so).

Bring with plenty of water. I always use a camelbak when hiking in the desert. Salty snacks like trail mix, pretzels, or chips are also a must to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.

Keep your distance from wildlife. Bobcats frequently roam around the area, and although they rarely attack, it is better to be safe and simply observe from a distance.

Use a hiking stick and wear hiking shoes for better traction.

Do not forget the sunglasses. The sun is intense all the time and it’s also extremely bright. With the glare, it will be very hard to see otherwise.

Be aware of rattlesnakes and other poisonous creatures that live in the desert. Rattlesnakes are very active in the spring months. Just leave them alone – hikers who fool around are most likely to get bitten as recent reports have indicated.

Never get too close to a cactus. Not only does the sting hurt incredibly bad, but it’s also a pain the butt to pick the dozens of little pricks out of your skin. I’ve been stung and it is not fun pulling them out. Take your pics from afar.

Stop at Seis for some tasty breakfast tacos after your hike. This is my favorite breakfast spot in the city. It’s close by in a little plaza known as the Mercado San Agustin.