Explore the Wonders of the Desert Discovery Nature Trail
Discover the breathtaking beauty and diverse ecosystems of the Sonoran Desert at the Desert Discovery Nature Trail in Tucson, Arizona.
Nestled in the heart of Tucson, Arizona, the Desert Discovery Nature Trail invites tourists to immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Ideal for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers, this trail offers a unique opportunity to explore diverse ecosystems, observe native wildlife, and enjoy stunning desert landscapes.
A brief summary to Desert Discovery Nature Trail
- Tucson, Arizona, 85743, US
- +1915-828-3251
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning desert landscapes and wildlife.
- Check the weather conditions before your visit, as summer temperatures can be extreme.
Getting There
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Public Bus
From downtown Tucson, head to the Ronstadt Transit Center located at 215 E Congress St. Take the Sun Tran bus route 6 towards 'South Tucson'. Ride the bus for about 30 minutes. Get off at the stop near the intersection of W Twin Peaks Rd and N Sandario Rd. From there, walk north on N Sandario Rd for about 0.5 miles until you reach the Desert Discovery Nature Trail, which will be on your left.
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Bicycle
If you have access to a bicycle, head towards the Rillito River Bike Path from downtown Tucson. Follow the bike path heading north until you reach the intersection with W Ina Rd. Turn right onto W Ina Rd and continue until you reach N Sandario Rd. Turn left and ride for about 2 miles until you reach the Desert Discovery Nature Trail on your right.
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Walking
For those who prefer walking, start at the Tucson Convention Center. Walk west on W Cushing St until you reach S 6th Ave. Turn left and walk south until you reach W 29th St. Turn right and walk to S 12th Ave, then turn left. Continue walking south until you reach W Valencia Rd. From there, turn west and walk until you reach N Sandario Rd. Finally, turn left and walk north for about 0.5 miles until you arrive at the Desert Discovery Nature Trail on your left.
Discover more about Desert Discovery Nature Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Signal Hill Picnic Area
3.1 km
Discover ancient rock art and scenic beauty at Signal Hill Picnic Area in Saguaro National Park West.
Signal Hill
3.3 km
Explore ancient Hohokam rock art and panoramic desert views at Signal Hill in Saguaro National Park West, a window into Arizona's past.
Mam-A-Gah Picnic Area
4.9 km
Hike to tranquility at Mam-A-Gah Picnic Area in Saguaro National Park: desert views, peaceful picnicking, and a touch of CCC history.
Brown Mountain Trail Picnic Area and Trailhead
7.2 km
Explore the Sonoran Desert on Brown Mountain Trail: panoramic views, diverse cacti, and a rewarding hike in Tucson Mountain Park.
Iron Door Mine
9.0 km
Explore the haunted Iron Door Mine near Tucson, where legends of lost gold and the Old West come alive.
Cocoraque Butte Archaeological District
12.8 km
Explore the Cocoraque Butte Archaeological District, a historical landmark in Arizona that reveals the stories of ancient cultures amidst stunning desert landscapes.
Feliz Paseos Trails Park Trailhead
14.3 km
Explore the Sonoran Desert with accessible trails and stunning views at Feliz Paseos Trails Park in Tucson, Arizona.
Sarasota Trailhead
15.0 km
Explore Tucson Mountain Park's trails from this convenient trailhead, perfect for hiking, biking, and experiencing the Sonoran Desert's beauty.
Hidden Canyon Trail
15.5 km
Escape into the Sonoran Desert on this accessible Tucson trail, offering scenic views and a peaceful hiking experience.
Richard E. Genser Starr Pass Trailhead
16.8 km
Explore scenic desert trails at the Richard E. Genser Starr Pass Trailhead, a gateway to Tucson Mountain Park's natural beauty.
Orange Slice
18.5 km
A whimsical and vibrant public art installation in Tucson, celebrating local history and creativity with a giant orange slice.
Christina Taylor Green Park
19.8 km
A serene Tucson park honoring Christina Taylor Green with botanical trails, a butterfly garden, and a memorial statue.
Old Pueblo Archaeology Center
20.4 km
Explore ancient cultures and archaeological treasures at Tucson's Old Pueblo Archaeology Center. Discover the Southwest's captivating past.
The SlaughterHouse
21.0 km
Experience Tucson's ultimate haunted attraction: a terrifying journey through themed mazes and live horror at The SlaughterHouse.
Sentinel Peak
21.4 km
Hike, explore, and witness breathtaking views from Tucson's iconic Sentinel Peak, a landmark steeped in history and natural beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
Red Hills Visitor Center
1.6 km
Explore the iconic Saguaro National Park at the Red Hills Visitor Center, your gateway to Arizona's stunning desert landscapes and unique ecosystems.
Tucson Mountain District
1.6 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and rich heritage of the Tucson Mountain District, a natural wonder in Arizona's Saguaro National Park.
Bajada Loop Drive
1.8 km
Discover the stunning landscapes of Bajada Loop Drive in Saguaro National Park West, where iconic saguaros and unique wildlife await.
Valley View Overlook Trail
2.2 km
Explore the breathtaking views and family-friendly hiking experience at Valley View Overlook Trail in Tucson, Arizona.
Signal Hl Trl
3.2 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich history along Signal Hill Trail in Arizona, a must-visit destination for every outdoor enthusiast.
King Canyon Trailhead
4.5 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of King Canyon Trailhead in Tucson, Arizona – a hiker's paradise in the heart of the Sonoran Desert.
Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
4.7 km
Explore the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, an extraordinary fusion of natural history museum, zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden in Tucson's stunning desert landscape.
Gates Pass Trail
8.5 km
Experience the stunning natural beauty of Gates Pass Trail in Arizona, a perfect hiking destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Old Tucson
9.2 km
Experience the essence of the Wild West at Old Tucson, a thrilling theme park filled with live shows, historic charm, and interactive adventures.
Gates Pass Scenic Lookout
11.4 km
Experience the breathtaking views and serene landscapes of Gates Pass Scenic Lookout, a must-visit scenic spot in Tucson, Arizona.
Tucson mountain park
11.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at Tucson Mountain Park, a natural haven in the heart of the Sonoran Desert.
International Wildlife Museum
14.0 km
Discover the International Wildlife Museum in Tucson, Arizona, where wildlife conservation comes to life through fascinating exhibits and educational experiences.
Bowen Stone House
14.6 km
Discover the enchanting Bowen Stone House on the Yetman Trail, where history meets breathtaking desert landscapes in Tucson, Arizona.
El Rio Preserve
16.0 km
Explore the natural beauty of El Rio Preserve in Tucson, Arizona, where scenic trails and abundant wildlife await outdoor enthusiasts.
Christopher Columbus Park
16.7 km
Explore the lush landscapes and recreational facilities of Christopher Columbus Park in Tucson, a perfect urban retreat for relaxation and family fun.
Essential places to dine
Ironwood Terraces Restaurant
4.8 km
Experience delightful American cuisine surrounded by breathtaking desert views at Ironwood Terraces Restaurant in Tucson.
In-N-Out Burger
15.3 km
Savor delicious burgers and fries at In-N-Out Burger in Tucson—a must-visit for every food lover exploring Arizona.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
15.7 km
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Signature Grill with Patio Dining
16.0 km
Discover exquisite American and continental cuisine at Signature Grill in Tucson, featuring stunning patio views for an unforgettable dining experience.
Salud
16.0 km
Discover Salud: A culinary haven in Tucson blending American and Latin American flavors amidst stunning desert vistas.
Persian Room Fine Dining
20.0 km
Discover authentic Persian flavors at Tucson's premier dining destination, where culinary artistry meets rich cultural heritage.
Agustin Kitchen
21.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of New American cuisine at Agustin Kitchen in Tucson - where local ingredients meet culinary creativity.
Café à La C'Art
22.6 km
Discover Café à La C'Art in Tucson: A unique blend of art, culture, and delicious American breakfast fare awaits you!
El Charro Café Downtown
22.7 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at El Charro Café Downtown in Tucson – where tradition meets flavor in every bite.
JoJo's Restaurant
22.7 km
Experience vibrant dining at JoJo's Restaurant in Tucson - where delicious cuisine meets live music in an inviting atmosphere.
Chef Alisah's Restaurant
22.8 km
Experience authentic European cuisine in the heart of Tucson at Chef Alisah's Restaurant - where every dish tells a story.
El Mezquite Grill & Taqueria
23.0 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at El Mezquite Grill & Taqueria in Tucson - where every dish tells a story.
Perche' No
23.0 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Perche' No in Tucson - where tradition meets creativity in every dish.
Coronet Restaurant
23.0 km
Discover Coronet Restaurant: A Culinary Delight in Tucson’s Historic Barrio Viejo Offering Unique American Dishes.
BATA
23.0 km
Experience innovative dishes crafted from local ingredients at BATA in Downtown Tucson - A true culinary adventure awaits!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ironwood Gift Shop
4.8 km
Explore the charm of Tucson at Ironwood Gift Shop, where unique gifts and local crafts await every visitor.
Gifts Shop
9.1 km
Explore Tucson's vibrant gift shop for unique souvenirs and artisan crafts that celebrate the essence of Arizona's culture and creativity.
Buffalo Trading Post
13.1 km
Explore Buffalo Trading Post in Tucson, AZ for unique clothing and local treasures, reflecting the rich culture and artistry of the Southwest.
Cat Mountain Station
13.2 km
Explore the eclectic treasures of Cat Mountain Station: a unique gift shop, antique store, and art gallery in Tucson, Arizona.
Mercado San Agustin
21.8 km
Discover the heart of Tucson at Mercado San Agustin, a vibrant market filled with food, art, and local culture in a welcoming atmosphere.
MAST
21.8 km
Explore MAST in Tucson for a unique selection of handcrafted jewelry, home goods, and leather items that showcase local artistry and culture.
Petroglyphs - A Tucson Emporium
21.8 km
Explore Petroglyphs, a Tucson emporium featuring handcrafted gifts, unique home goods, and local artistry in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
Why I Love Where I Live
22.0 km
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MESA Shop
22.0 km
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Norcross - Madagascar (US) LLC
22.3 km
Explore Tucson's hidden gem for rock and mineral enthusiasts at Norcross - Madagascar (US) LLC, a treasure trove of natural beauty.
Rain Crow
22.4 km
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AntiqueModern Tucson
22.4 km
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Grant-Stone Shopping Center
22.5 km
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Earthbound
22.5 km
Explore Earthbound in Tucson for unique gifts, clothing, and jewelry that capture the essence of local artistry and creativity.
Arizona Gifts
22.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Station Pub & Grill
14.0 km
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Li'l Abner's Steakhouse
14.3 km
Experience the best of Tucson dining at Li'l Abner's Steakhouse, where delicious steaks and live music create unforgettable memories.
Casa Marana Beer · Wine · Spirits • Pizza
15.3 km
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Monsoons Tap & Grill
17.3 km
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Dragoon Brewing Company
19.4 km
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The Edge - A Tucson Bar
20.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Edge in Tucson, featuring live music, karaoke, and an inviting atmosphere perfect for socializing.
Lazy V
21.7 km
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The Jackrabbit Lounge
22.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and live music at The Jackrabbit Lounge, Tucson's premier grill and bar destination for an unforgettable night out.
Short Rest Tavern
22.4 km
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Tommy’s Saloon
22.5 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and friendly service at Tommy's Saloon, Tucson's go-to bar for locals and tourists alike.
Brodies Dark Horse Tavern
22.6 km
Experience Tucson's local flavor at Brodies Dark Horse Tavern, where delicious grill dishes and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.
Brother John's Beer Bourbon & BBQ
22.6 km
Experience the best of Tucson’s barbecue culture with a vast selection of beers and a welcoming atmosphere at Brother John's Beer Bourbon & BBQ.
Bar Crisol/Exo
23.0 km
Discover Bar Crisol/Exo in Tucson's Barrio Viejo for a unique blend of coffee and cocktails in a cozy atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and local culture.
Nightjar
23.0 km
Discover Nightjar, Tucson's premier cocktail bar, where innovative drinks meet historic charm in the heart of Barrio Viejo.
Tough Luck Club
23.2 km
Discover Tucson's nightlife at Tough Luck Club, a cocktail bar that offers innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere for unforgettable evenings.
