Hike It and Really Like It in Marana, Arizona
Marana, Arizona, is a hidden gem for hikers and nature enthusiasts. With its picturesque landscapes and diverse trails, this city offers an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking outdoor exploration. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, the hiking trails in Marana cater to all levels, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The trails at the Tortolita Preserve offer an 8.8-mile moderate hike through a diverse and ever-changing desert landscape with surprises throughout, including rustic ruins and ancient petroglyphs to discover. The unique ecosystems here result from water moving through the desert, creating a vast expanse that continuously adapts to capture every drop of water that flows from the Tortolita Mountains through the Tortolita alluvial fan.
You can even explore wetlands at the El Rio Preserve, created as part of a Santa Cruz River flood project. Here, you’ll find The Loop, a multi-use paved, ADA-accessible walkway connecting various areas within the greater region. Stop by the Los Morteros Conservation Area, which boasts archaeological treasures of an ancient Hohokam village site, providing a fascinating complement to the thriving fauna and flora in the wetlands.
You’ll find a challenging 11-mile round-trip hike at the Wild Burro Trail near the Ritz-Carlton Dove Mountain. This trail descends into the picturesque Wild Burro Canyon before winding up the canyon walls to a high pass, treating hikers to breathtaking views of the volcanic rock formations in the Tortolita Mountains. Plus, art and nature come together here, with artist Joshua Woodhall’s captivating mural that showcases the trail’s natural splendor.
When you share your hiking experiences and love for the trails, you can proudly display your achievements with specially designed stickers and other memorabilia. It’s not just about collecting souvenirs but about fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among hikers who share a passion for the great outdoors.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your hiking gear and embark on an unforgettable journey of exploration and discovery in Marana, Arizona.
