Panorama Trails

Trail Facts at a Glance

Name: Panorama Trails

Park agency: Oro Valley Parks and Recreation

Contact: (520) 229-5050

Location: 1750 W. Lambert Lane,

Oro Valley 85737

Parking: Free

Trail hours: 6am – 10pm, 7 days/week

Transit: No public transit

Trail length plus more: Short loop 0.2 miles, Gain 10';

Long loop 0.5 miles, Gain 40'; Elevation 2600'

Trail surface: Rugged natural surface; the short loop is easier; the long loop is more difficult due to rock stairs

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:

Panorama Trails is a small natural neighborhood park in the town of Oro Valley, just northwest of Tucson. Community volunteers have developed a short, 0.2-mile interpretive trail that offers a good introduction to hiking in the desert. The loop trail is a wide, packed-earth path with plenty of benches, information signs about plants and animals, a wooden bridge over a small wash, and a good chance to view wildlife. Be aware that erosion may create a 2-4” lip at transition points, such as where the parking lot curb meets the natural trail surface or where the trail meets the wooden bridge.

The park also offers a longer 0.5-mile loop that is more challenging with several sets of rock stairs, sandy washes, and some steep sections with 5% grades. This trail climbs to a crest with a clear view of the spectacular Pusch Ridge in the Santa Catalina Mountains.

These short paths are ideal for people who are unaccustomed to desert hikes or the Tucson heat. It is not uncommon to complete the smaller loop in just 15 minutes and the longer loop in less than an hour. The informative signs and frequent benches allow hikers to experience the Sonoran Desert while only being minutes from town.

Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash. And some hikers walk the short loop twice for a longer trek.

There is sufficient parking at the trailhead but no other facilities. So, bring plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and healthy while exploring the park trails.

Panorama Trails is a perfect place for first-time hikers to get a taste of the Sonoran Desert. Local residents frequent the park benches to enjoy a quiet coffee in the morning or to watch the full moon rise in the evening.