Out on the far west side of Tucson, just past the Tucson Mountains, lies a prominence called Brown Mountain. It clocks in with about 694 feet of climbing along its 3.8-mile length and is rotten with every rock species native to Tucson. This trail is the embodiment of a “diamond in the rough.” It’s hard. It’s pointy. And it's gorgeous in so many facets.

 

Even though it is one trail, Brown Mountain is a tale of two trails. The first 1.8 miles is a rolling meander right along the base of the mountain. The preceding two miles, a series of three climbs along the spine, are where this diamond really shines. These climbs require a constant combirequire your attention and savvy. nation of technique and fitness. There are tight switchbacks, rocky step-ups and, at times, both simultaneously. You will more than likely be right at the edge of your gearing and aerobic threshold as you grind your way over relentless obstacles… err…features. Each summit offers a 360-degree view of the valley below and Southern Arizona for miles beyond. Perfect respites for taking a breath, a snack and a picture.

 

The short, punchy descents are nothing to sleep on. They are of similar variety to the climbs… plenty of tight switchbacks and momentum-arresting rocks that 34   34-35 Trails of Whoa_AH.indd   34 The final half-mile of Brown Mountain is a switchback scamper down (average -14%) a pinball machine-esque rock garden. It’s a descent that requires as much prowess and concentration as the climbs you’ve just finished. Some will view it as icing on the cake. Others will see it as a final stick-in-the-eye.