Sometimes, the quickest workouts are the most effective. Anyone who has embarked on Hunter Trail knows this to be true, as it ascends over 2,000 feet in just over three miles. Enjoy the great outdoors, challenge yourself, and take in some of the most striking mountain vistas Arizona has to offer.

At just 3.2 miles long, Hunter Trail may seem like a walk in the park—but don't let its short-and-sweet nature fool you.
AllTrails/Katie Crouse
This difficult hike scales Picacho Peak, with an elevation gain of over 2,000 feet.
Your adventure begins amid a field of Saguaros and other desert plant life, framed by mighty bluffs that seem to stretch up toward the clouds.
AllTrails/Joel Endicott
Slow down and take in the picture-perfect scenery while you still can, as the intensity will only go up from here.
Some of the steepest ascents are outfitted with cables that you can grab onto.
AllTrails/Andy S.
Make sure to bring good shoes and gloves, and be advised that even with the extra help, several spots are tricky and require a bit of rock scrambling.
The trail is well-marked from beginning to end, so don't worry about getting lost.
AllTrails/Parker W.
During lower-impact stretches of the hike, make it a point to stop and smell the roses. Flora and fauna abound, from majestic bald eagles to blooming ocotillos.

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Upon reaching the summit, you'll enjoy some of the best views in all of Tucson—and that's saying a lot!
AllTrails/Ben Barnes
The silhouettes of Mount Lemmon and other towering peaks rise up in the distance for a jaw-dropping scene that promises to leave you awestruck.
I-10 extends far as the eye can see in both directions, and if you look hard enough, you just might see into a neighboring city!
AllTrails/Sofia User
One thing is for sure: anyone who conquers Picacho Peak feels on top of the world.
We recommend starting early, as the trail is quite popular. Tucson also gets extremely hot during the warmer months, so beating the midday sun is crucial.
AllTrails/Andy S.
It takes most people around two hours to complete the hike, so you could finish just in time for breakfast. The park entry fee is $7, which you can self-pay if you arrive before the rangers do.
Leashed dogs are allowed, but only until the saddle area (about halfway to the peak.)
AllTrails/Parker W.

To learn more about the hike, visit its AllTrails page.

Have you ever hiked Hunter Trail? If so, tell us all about your experience in the comments below, and check out our previous article for another challenging, yet rewarding hike in Arizona.

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Hunter Trail, Picacho, AZ 85141, USA