Catalina Canyon Loop Trail Is A Short Family Hike In Arizona

Trekking through the desert all day long can be fun, but it’s not the most kid-friendly activity. If you’re in search of a hike suitable for even the tiniest adventurers, look no further than Catalina Canyon Loop Trail. Featuring expansive mountain views, this short-and-sweet outdoor excursion is perfect for the whole family.

At just 2.3 miles long, Catalina Canyon Loop Trail is a fun hike suitable for all ages and skill levels.

AllTrails/Britton Watson With native desert flora and fauna plus constant views of the towering Catalina Mountains, the trail lets you escape the daily grind without straying too far from the city.

The loop is relatively flat, with an elevation gain of just under 200 feet.

AllTrails/Kurt Schulz It’s perfect for a relaxing morning stroll, quick afternoon adventure, or post-work evening walk.

While the Big Horn Fire in mid-2020 left its mark on the trail, nature is reclaiming her territory at a record pace.

AllTrails/Jeff Goble Vibrant blooms are popping up all over the place, offering a sense of hope for the future.

Majestic Saguaro cacti stand guard over the landscape, their ancient frames the embodiment of wisdom and power.

AllTrails/Mark Williams You’ll also see myriad other desert plants like la cholla and prickly pear. All the different colors will amaze you!

Until about the halfway point, you’ll be hiking toward the mountains.

AllTrails/Diann Stone The second half of the trail is a descent that crosses a creek bed four times. It’s full of water during monsoon season, so be careful!

Despite such a brief and mild climb, the views seem to extend for miles.

AllTrails/Greg Sanders And, since the hike is so short-and-sweet, you’ll have plenty of time to stop and take in the breathtaking sights.

There’s nothing quite like stealing off into the desert when you need some peace and quiet, and Catalina Canyon Loop Trail lets you do exactly that.

AllTrails/Jasmine Higgins After this brief, yet beautiful hike, the whole family is sure to feel more relaxed, centered, and ready to take on the day.

Visit the AllTrails page to learn more. Have you ever hiked Catalina Canyon Loop Trail? If so, tell us all about your experience in the comments section. Check out our previous article for more easy hikes in Arizona that are perfect for families.

AllTrails/Britton Watson

With native desert flora and fauna plus constant views of the towering Catalina Mountains, the trail lets you escape the daily grind without straying too far from the city.

AllTrails/Kurt Schulz

It’s perfect for a relaxing morning stroll, quick afternoon adventure, or post-work evening walk.

AllTrails/Jeff Goble

Vibrant blooms are popping up all over the place, offering a sense of hope for the future.

AllTrails/Mark Williams

You’ll also see myriad other desert plants like la cholla and prickly pear. All the different colors will amaze you!

AllTrails/Diann Stone

The second half of the trail is a descent that crosses a creek bed four times. It’s full of water during monsoon season, so be careful!

AllTrails/Greg Sanders

And, since the hike is so short-and-sweet, you’ll have plenty of time to stop and take in the breathtaking sights.

AllTrails/Jasmine Higgins

After this brief, yet beautiful hike, the whole family is sure to feel more relaxed, centered, and ready to take on the day.

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Address: Catalina State Park, 11570 N Oracle Rd, Tucson, AZ 85737, USA