If You're Up For The 14-Mile Hike, Ventana Canyon Trail Leads To One Of The Most Unique Natural Arches In Arizona
By Katie Lawrence|Published August 31, 2021
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
Sometimes, being a tourist in your own city leads to uncovering the most incredible hidden gems. Ventana Canyon Trail in Tucson is a perfect example: this underrated hike starts at the renowned Lowe’s Ventana Canyon Resort, yet it often gets overlooked in favor of other nearby trails. At 14 miles round-trip, it’s no walk in the park, but the reward is a 32-foot-long natural arch that frames the city and surrounding desert landscape in a picture-perfect way.
Nestled deep in the Pusch Ridge Wilderness, Ventana Canyon Trail is a challenging, 14.5-mile hike that takes you far away from the hustle and bustle of Tucson.
With an elevation gain of over 4600 feet, it's among the steepest hikes in the Santa Catalina Mountains, so only those with prior experience should attempt to complete the entire trail.
The trail begins at the Lowe's Ventana Canyon Resort, and you should have no trouble finding the parking lot once you turn into the hotel.
You'll definitely want to stick around for a while, both to admire the beautiful surroundings and catch your breath before the tough hike back to the trailhead.
What a vista—pictures don't even begin to do it justice.
It looks to us like this Saguaro is asking for a hug! All jokes aside, long sleeves and pants are highly recommended to avoid getting scratched by twigs or cactus spines.
No matter what time of year you embark on the trail, the scenery is always incredible.
Tucson doesn't get much snow, but when you're this high up, it's a totally different story. Who knew you could walk in a winter wonderland this far south?
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Springtime brings with it eye-popping wildflowers that serve to lighten up the intensity of the hike.
Have you ever hiked Ventana Canyon Trail? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments section below. Check out our previous article for more natural arches in Arizona that are just a hop, skip, and a hike away!
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