Hike the Anza Trail from Tumacácori to Tubac, AZ

Cottonwoods and mesquite provide shade and excellent habitat for birds

Burley Packwood / https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Juan_Batista_de_Anza_Trail2.jpg

Hiking from Tumacácori National Historic Park to Tubac Presidio State Historic Park

Arizona

The segment of the Anza Trail between the Tumacácori National Historic Park and Tubac Presidio State Historic Park, offers the visitor an opportunity to experience historic sites and a landscape similar to that experienced by the Anza party over two centuries ago.

The six-mile trail connecting the two parks follows the Santa Cruz River through a lush cottonwood-willow riparian forest and mesquite bosque. The river corridor supports a high diversity of plant and bird species within the arid Sonoran Desert region. Over 250 miles of the Anza Trail traverses the Sonoran Desert, including many miles along the Santa Cruz River through Santa Cruz and Pima counties.

This segment of the Anza Trail is maintained by volunteers from the Anza Trail Coalition of Arizona (ATCA), in partnership with private landowners and the National Park Service. The ATCA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation devoted to the establishment and interpretation of the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail within Arizona.

For more information, visit the Anzatrail.org website.

Details

Duration

2-6 Hours

Duration is calculated for a ONE-WAY hike of six miles. 
Minimum is assuming average walking speed of 3 mph. This is a fairly fast pace.
Maximum is assuming average walking speed of 1 mph, and not including stops and breaks.
 

Activity

Hiking

The six-mile trail connecting the two parks follows the Santa Cruz River through a lush cottonwood-willow riparian forest and mesquite bosque. Due to the length of this hike, we categorize this trail as moderately difficult. There is little to no elevation gain. Be prepared to hike back to your vehicle at Tumacácori if you haven't arranged for a ride to pick you up from Tubac. This mellow six-mile trail could turn into a strenuous and hot twelve-mile roundtrip slog if you don't plan ahead.

Despite the shade provided by the cottonwood canopy, temperatures can be extreme even in the spring or fall. Check the weather and be prepared: bring plenty of water, apply sunscreen, and wear protective clothing like a hat and lightweight long sleeve shirt. 

Age(s)

All ages are welcome, but young children should be accompanied by an adult. Adults accompanying children should be prepared for a long hike and provide the necessary care and precautions. 

Pets Allowed

Yes with Restrictions

Pets on a leash are allowed on the trail but pets are not allowed in Tumacácori National Historic Park (with the exceptions of service animals).

Activity Fee

No

A fee is not required to hike the trail. However, a fee is charged to enter Tumacácori National Historic Park. Entrance fee is $10.00.

Location

Anza Trailhead at Tumacácori National Historic Park

The trailhead for the Anza Trail is located at Tumacácori National Historic Park. This site requires an entry fee. Enter the park and inquire at the front desk for directions to the trail. The trailhead is located in the northeast corner of the mission site. 

Reservations

No

Season

Winter, Spring, Fall

Summer is best avoided due to extreme heat and possible flash flooding of the Santa Cruz River.

Time of Day

Day

Accessibility Information

The trail varies from 6 feet wide to single track sections 1-2 feet wide. Trail surface is dirt with no regular grading or maintenance. The trail includes a number of water crossings, some across narrow wooden planks and other short crossings (~3 feet wide) with no bridge. 

Service animals are allowed on the trail and within the Tumacácori grounds.