The Best Dog-Friendly Hikes Near Tucson, Arizona for an Outdoor Adventure

Hiking near Tucson is a spectacular experience. Tucson is a fantastic place to visit for so many reasons, and many people who choose to visit are drawn to the area to explore the natural beauty surrounding this southern Arizona city. Locals and visitors alike love to head out into the mountains and other public lands around Tucson to take in and experience the unique and memorable vistas and terrain found only in this part of the United States.

Of course, many hikers and outdoor enthusiasts simply love bringing their four-legged friends along on their adventures. Dogs love nature, too, and there's nothing quite like having your pup by your side. Unfortunately, however, many of Tucson's most popular hiking trails, including those in Saguaro National Park, do not allow dogs.

But don't worry — not all is lost! With the happiness of our dog-loving readers in mind, we dug deep and found five great trails that DO allow dogs near Tucson. If you're someone who loves hiking with your dog, then you and your pup are sure to love all of these. So, get ready for a grand adventure by exploring southern Arizona's beauty with your best canine friend.

1. Sutherland and Canyon Loop Trail

The Sutherland and Canyon Loop Trail is great for starting your dog-friendly hiking journey. This trail is in Catalina State Park, so there's a fee to enter, but dogs are welcome! On the trail, you'll experience less than 200 feet of elevation gain on this easy, 2.3-mile trail, and it should only take you an hour to complete the whole loop. Along the way, you'll see a vast variety of desert plants, including la cholla, prickly pear, saguaro, and more. You'll need to cross a creek bed a few times on this trip; it's dry most of the year, but you may encounter some fast-moving water there at certain times between May and August.

2. Saguaro Vista, Sun Circle, and Black Rock Loop

The Saguaro Vista, Sun Circle, and Block Rock Loop in Sweetwater Preserve is absolutely beautiful. It's 4.2 miles in length and is rated moderate; it takes most hikers about an hour and a half to complete. There's very little shade on this route, so be sure to start early in the day and bring plenty of water for both you and your dog, but hikers who take on this trail will be treated to some truly incredible Arizona views. Plan to stop for plenty of photos. Dogs must stay on a leash.

3. Babad Do'ag Trail

Your dog will love the name of this trail! The Babad Do'ag Trail in the Pusch Ridge Wilderness is another excellent and enjoyable moderately-rated trail. It's 4.4 miles long out and back and takes about two hours and a half hours to complete. This trail is a good choice if you're looking for some incline; you'll gain 1,167 feet of elevation on your way up, but it's all downhill on your way back to your car. A few areas on this trail are challenging to find due to the slick rock; just keep going up, and you'll soon find the trail again. The views from the top are breathtaking.

4. Slingshot Trail and Mosaic Loop Trail

The Slingshot Trail and Mosaic Trail Loop is another moderate-rated hike that you and your dog will love. It's inside Painted Hills Trails Park on the west side of town. This trail is three miles long but only requires 272 feet of elevation gain, and it will take you and your pup about an hour to complete. The views of the city from this trail are beautiful and memorable, and you'll enjoy traversing diverse terrain on the entire route. There's very limited shade on this trail, so be sure to come prepared for lots of heat and sun. Keep your dog on its leash; you may encounter deer and javelinas along the way.

5. Agua Caliente Loop

The final trail on our list is a favorite of many! It's also the longest trail on our list: a 6.2-mile loop that takes most hikers a little over three hours to complete. Along this route on this moderate-rated trail in the Coronado National Forest, you'll gain 1,354 feet in elevation. There are some steep, rocky climbs on this trail and loose gravel, so wear sturdy boots. You may even want to bring trekking poles for balance. You'll also love the canyon views and walking along the beautiful Agua Caliente Creek. There's lots to see on this trail; you and your dog will love exploring it together!

All five of these trails are great options for anyone who loves dogs, trails, and Arizona! Each of them is a little different, too, and if you take on several of them, you'll get a good taste of the varied natural lands surrounding the city of Tucson. No matter what trails you choose, be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen and take breaks if you need them. Check-in with your dog frequently to make sure he or she is having a good time, too. Happy trails!

Do you have other suggestions for dog-friendly hikes? Send us a message through our nomination page!