Page Updated: March 10, 2023
Sabino Lake Loop
Sabino Canyon Recreation Area
2.3 miles - 144ft elev gain - easy
MAY 2021
Quick trail for the experienced hiker. Equally enjoyable for the one who likes to mosey. Signage is decent, and it’s a great trail for hikers learning the nuances of hiking in the desert. The trail partially paths near/on Sabino Canyon’s paved tram road, but it’s pleasantly scenic along the Trail #30 segment. Rocky in bits.
One of the key features of this hike is the small pool created by a minor dam blocking Sabino Creek. It’s extremely popular with the locals. I’ve read this hike “leads to a surprisingly beautiful oasis in the Sonoran Desert.” Another noted, “cannot cross Sabino Creek anywhere due to high, fast water.”
Hiked May 6, 2021, and neither of these was my experience. In fact, I was perplexed as to why the trail was called Sabino Lake at all. It turns out our Tucson visit was at the end of the driest 12 month period on record… just before monsoon season. Still, it’s beautiful!
happy hiking
-b&b
Mt Lemmon Scenic Byway
Bisbee AZ
