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Painted Hills Park

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Trail Facts at a Glance

Name: Painted Hills Park

Location: 3590 W Anklam Road, Tucson, Arizona 85745

Trail length plus more: The Mosaic Trail is 2 miles in-and-out roundtrip; The Monsoon Loop is a 1-mile loop; The Recoil Peak spur is 0.4 miles in-and-out roundtrip; The total suggested route is about 3.6 miles; Other trails could be added: Slingshot Trail (1.5 miles one way) or Bactrian Summit Trail (0.4 miles in-and-out roundtrip), Gain 380’, Elevation 2600’, Slopes > 8%, shared use with hikers, runners and cyclists

Trail surface: Rugged natural surface with ruts, rocks, roots, sandy washes and rock stairs

Parks agency: Pima County Parks and Recreation

Contact: 520 724 5000

Trail hours: Sunrise to sunset, daily

Parking: Free and accessible

Transit: no public transit

Date of last visit: August 13, 2024

Disclaimer: 

The information provided is for general guidance only and may not reflect current conditions. Users must assess trails for themselves, consider their own abilities, and assume all risks associated with trail use. Tucson AccessTrails, a nonprofit corporation, is not responsible for any injuries or incidents that may occur. Always use caution and prepare appropriately when visiting trails.

Description:

Overview

  • Offers a unique hiking experience close to downtown Tucson

  • A quiet desert preserve with native vegetation and mule deer sightings

Parking, Restrooms & Amenities

  • Ample accessible parking available

  • No restrooms or drinking fountains

  • Well-marked signage from main roads leading to the trailhead

  • Trail maps and signboards for navigation throughout the park

  • Dense saguaro, cholla, and barrel cacti line the trails, adding both beauty and potential hazards

  • Dogs allowed on leash

Trail Route

  • Trails can be combined for longer hikes (up to 4 miles)

  • Shorter hike option: only 0.3 miles from trailhead to Santa Catalina Vista

Photo Tours by Topic

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Overview

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Location and Arrival

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Amenities and Features

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Trail Characteristics

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Signage and Wayfinding

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Enjoy a 2-minute virtual visit to enhance your trail experience

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