With the cooler weather approaching, we knew we wanted to visit an area to escape the winter and get in some amazing adventures. Little did we know Southern Arizona was going to offer one of the most incredible trips of 2023 for us! This area is an underrated gem of the state and we’re going to take you through everything you need to know when visiting Southern Arizona! https://www.visitarizona.com
Where to Stay
We stayed in Tucson Arizona. This town has so much history, culture, and things to do in the town itself. We found a new coffee shop to try every morning and no shortage of top tier restaurants! We stayed at the Hotel McCoy, which was such a wonderful experience. The onsite food truck was our dinner every night and the hotel itself provided all the amenities you could dream of!
Closest Major Airport
The closest major airport to Tucson was Tucson international. This was just a short 10 minute drive to Hotel McCoy!
Must do hikes in the area
This area of Southern Arizona is home to some incredible hiking. From gigantic Saguaro cactus, to Organ Pipe cactus, and the unique rock spires of Chiricahua, there’s something for everyone in this region of Arizona!
Echo Canyon Loop
Difficulty (Moderate)
Length (3.2 miles)
Estimated hiking time (1.5 hours)
Located in Chiricahua National Monument, if you only have time for 1 hike in this area make sure it’s this one. This loop trail takes you winding through some of the most unique rock formations we’ve ever seen. Think Bryce Canyon! The views on this trail are never ending.
Coronado Peak Memorial
Difficulty (Easy)
Length (0.8 miles)
Estimated hiking time (30 minutes)
Located in the remote area of Coronado National Memorial, this is a must do out and back trail. This trail provides 360 views of the Montezuma Pass and the surrounding areas! Make sure to take your time on the road leading up to the trailhead as it gets pretty bumpy! I’d recommend a 4×4 just to be sure.
Valley View Overlook
Difficulty (Easy)
Length (0.8 miles)
Estimated hiking time (20 minutes)
Located in Saguaro National Park, this is one of the easiest hikes in the area. Located close to Tucson, this makes for a perfect sunrise or sunset hike. Giving you an unreal up close experience of the largest cactus in the United States.
Arch Canyon Trail
Difficulty (Hard)
Length (2.9 miles)
Estimated hiking time (2.5 hours)
Located in Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, this is a tough trail gaining a decent amount of elevation towards the end. Taking you to see a beautiful arch and a change of scenery from some of the other hikes in Organ Pipe!
Desert View Trail
Difficulty (Easy)
Length (1.1 Miles)
Estimated hiking time (30 minutes)
Located in Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, this is the trail to do if you’re looking to get up close to these unique cactus. Southern Oregon is one of the only places in the world you can see these!
Nearby towns to explore if you have time
Bisbee Arizona
Tombstone Arizona
Southern Arizona is truly a hidden gem in this very popular state. This is the best place to book your next winter trip as the weather is amazing this time of year. We just scratched the surface of what’s available to see and we already have started booking a return trip!