What we’re about
Our group features hikes of variable length & ability. Beginner hikes range from 2 to 4 miles, while advanced hikes may be up to 16 miles and may feature bushwacking & rock scrambling. Beginner and moderate hikes usually are a mixed group between athletic pace and slow or moderate pace. Having fun talking, taking pictures, and admiring the beautiful Sonoran desert is all part of the package deal.
Many factors determine the difficulty of a hike: mileage, terrain, elevation, and pace. The hike rating scale that we have adopted is:
A - Extreme: no limit for distance or elevation
B - Advanced: maximum 16 miles or 3000' gain
C - Intermediate: maximum 8 miles or 1500' gain
D - Beginner: maximum 4 miles or 500' gain
This group is open to new members. We hope you'll join us!
Frequently asked questions about hiking with this group answered:
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1jADC4K2_gRzviAznMmQWzNAbpIhPCKIpcpEetyN_AVY/edit?usp=sharing
Organizer Chel has a hiking YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPXU-ZP9hbi0dnVkjVadrVg.
Want to help support the cost of the membership of this group and/or the YouTube channel?https://www.buymeacoffee.com/TucsonAreaHiking
Assistant Organizer Larry has a hiking blog: https://daringdayhikes.home.blog/
Assistant Organizer, Bruce L. has a Reddit group you can join! https://www.reddit.com/r/Tucson_backpacking/s/P438eFoxjJ
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Tucson Mts: Desperado Loop at Sweetwater PreserveSweetwater Preserve Trailhead, Tucson, AZ
• Mileage: 4.0 miles total
• Total elevation gain: 400'
• Rating: D - Beginner
**RESTRICTIONS: No guests, dogs, firearms or tobacco/vaping
• Cell phones SILENT during hikeBy RSVP-ing "Yes" to this event you are agreeing to hold the event host/organizer not liable for any personal injury, death or property damage that occurs during the event or in transit to and from the event.
This easy-going open desert ramble is more of a stroll than a hike - very mellow.
As we walk through a forest of widely spaced saguaros, we will enjoy nice views of the higher peaks of the Tucson Mountain including Wasson Peak which is the highest at 4600'.Here is an AllTrails map of the hiking route here.
Explore Desperado LoopRSVP etiquette:
• Sign up only if you really intend to come
• If you need to cancel, do so BEFORE the RSVP deadline so someone can get your spot
• If you change your mind, take yourself off the Going or Wait list
• Please don't be a no-show
Be sure to bring adequate water, food, trekking poles, etc.
As always - Hike at Your Own RiskQuestions?
Cell: 304.290.8066
Email: Contact Mike Breiding
(I do not use MeetUp messaging)
WV-Mike=======================
Sweetwater Preserve information at Pima County Park and Recreation:
Sweetwater Preserve | Pima County, AZThe Sweetwater Preserve is a 880+ acre preserve located in the eastern foothills of the Tucson Mountains of Southern Arizona, west of Tucson. Within approximately one-half mile of the Preserve are Saguaro National Park’s Tucson Mountain District, and a biological research preserve owned by the University of Arizona. Tucson Mountain Park is also located a short distance to the south.
Most of Sweetwater Preserve was homesteaded and owned by Joseph Conrad Fraps from 1927 until his death in 1963.
Per the Homestead Act of 1862 President Hoover issued a land patent for section 26 in Township 13 South of Range 12 East of the Gila and Salt meridian to Mr Fraps on March 25, 1932.
To fulfill requirements of the ACT Mr Fraps dug a well, built and lived in a one room wooden shack with a metal roof, raised goats on the land and paid $18 in fees and commissions.
Born in 1873 in Raleigh North Carolina Mr. Frap came to Arizona territory in 1908 as a machinist for the Arizona and New Mexico railway. - The Full Moon Friday Night Sabino StrollSabino Canyon Recreation Area, Tucson, AZ
Join us for our weekly Sabino Stroll! This is a great hike for new members. We walk up the paved tram road and enjoy the views of Sabino Canyon. Please note that the bathrooms near the parking lot are closed at 4:30 pm. However, there are open bathrooms along the tram road.
We have two separate groups:
6 pm Group:
- Usually led by Chel.
- Speed: 3.5 to 4 mph.
- Elevation is less than 740 feet.
- More of a fitness group and faster-paced.
- Goes all of the tram road and back (7.4 miles total)- If you are attending the 6 pm group: Please type in the comment section, "6 pm” We have a core group of hikers at 6 pm. I need to know who will be joining us! Especially if you are new or pop in and out of our Stroll events!
7 pm Group:
- Usually led by Don.
- Speed 2 to 3 mph.
- Elevation is less than 300 feet.
- The 7 pm group is best for people new to the Stroll and our group.
- Goes about 4 miles in all and walks at a more modest and varied pace.
- This group stops at the "Scorpion Wall," just beyond the 2-mile marker.- We look for scorpions on that wall by using a black light. The black light makes them glow in the dark! This is neat to see for the first time or see again! Bring a black light if you can. If not, usually there is at least one person with a blacklight.
- Most usually attend the 7 pm group, so there is NO need to comment that you are attending 7 pm It's only the 6 pm group that needs to.
MEETING PLACE:
- The covered area (a ramada) by the main parking lot.STARTING THE HIKE:
The Stroll starts on time! We begin by talking about the Stroll, safety, quick round of introductions, and then we start! If no host is present at the appointed time (+5 minutes), begin the Stroll anyways!RISKS: Like with any hiking event, there is always a risk. Depending on the time of the year, you may see a rattlesnake or other animals. My tips from being on the Stroll for almost 10 years is to keep away from the shoulder, have a light, pay attention, and maintain a safe distance from wildlife! Don't ever feed wildlife! By signing up for this event you agree to Stroll at your own risk.
PARKING FEE:
Do you have a valid Coronado National Forest pass?
America the Beautiful Pass works too (senior, military, or other).
YES - Make sure it's visible inside your vehicle. Your parking is paid for and that's it!
NO - Sabino Canyon has day & week passes available online: https://www.recreation.gov/sitepass/74388
You can also pay in person via a self-pay station near Sabino Canyon's ramada (the covered area near the parking lot.)WHAT TO HAVE:
1 - Water (1-2 liters and make sure you have additional water during the
summer)
2 - Hiking appropriate clothes AND shoes for the weather
3 - Headlamp or flashlight
4 - If it's cloudy, be prepared for possible rain
Optional: Blacklight, if you are going on the 7 pm hike.RULES: No vaping/smoking, weapons, or dogs. Please only sign up if you know you can go.
AFTER HIKE OPTION: Please join us at the Arizona Pizza Company for food and drinks! It is about a mile south of the Sabino Canyon parking lot. I hope to see you there! https://maps.app.goo.gl/BLw9o52YRff4Bd4o9
