Tanque Verde Canyon
Tanque Verde Rim Loop

Trail Facts at a Glance

Name: Tanque Verde Rim Loop

Location: Redington Road #371 Scenic Drive (Take Tanque Verde Road east out of Tucson until it becomes the graded-gravel Redington Road)

Trail length plus more: 2.0-mile loop, Gain 280’, Elevation 3200’, Slopes 0-10%

Trail surface: Rugged natural surface with large rock outcrops and sandy sections

Parks agency: US Forest Service, Coronado National Forest

Contact: (520) 388-8300 @ Supervisors Office, 300 W. Congress St., Tucson, AZ 85701

Parking fee: Free

Trail hours: Open 24 hours, 7 days/week

Transit: None

Date of last visit: 1 Sept 2025

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

The Tanque Verde Rim Loop runs along the edge of a narrow canyon
Located about 20 miles east of downtown Tucson
Features views of sheer rock walls and seasonal cascading waterfalls
Trail offers close-up views of ocotillos and saguaros, plus distant views of Mica Mountain (south) and Catalina Mountains (north)

Parking, Restrooms & Amenities

Middle parking lot is recommended for starting: most parking, best amenities, and greatest route flexibility
Multiple picnic tables at trailhead under shaded ramadas
Gender-neutral accessible restroom with a chemical toilet
Large informational sign with a full map and hiking instructions
Trail signage is sporadic but adequate for navigation
Dogs allowed on leash

Trail Route

Three trailheads: Lower, Middle, and Upper parking lots
From the middle lot, a 0.2-mile spur leads to a canyon overview
Continue clockwise or counterclockwise on the 2-mile loop, or return directly to the middle parking lot