Outdoor Activities

Best Outdoor Activities in Oro Valley & Tucson

If you love the outdoors, few destinations compare to Oro Valley and Tucson. Nestled in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, this region is a playground for adventure seekers, with world-class hiking trails, championship golf courses, and scenic biking routes. Whether you’re here for relaxation or thrill, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy the desert sunshine.

Hiking in Oro Valley

Oro Valley is a hiker’s paradise, offering trails that range from easy family walks to challenging climbs with breathtaking rewards.

Catalina State Park – Scenic Desert Trails

Catalina State Park is one of the most popular Oro Valley hiking spots, with over 5,500 acres of desert beauty. Hike through canyons filled with saguaros, seasonal wildflowers, and abundant wildlife, all against the backdrop of the Catalina Mountains.

Romero Pools Trail – Challenging but Rewarding

This moderately strenuous hike leads to the stunning Romero Pools, a hidden gem with natural pools and waterfalls (seasonal). It’s a favorite for those who want both a workout and a scenic reward.

Honey Bee Canyon – Easy, Family-Friendly

Perfect for beginners, Honey Bee Canyon offers family-friendly Oro Valley hiking. Explore desert washes, petroglyphs, and wide-open trails where kids can safely enjoy the outdoors.

Hiking in Tucson

For variety and iconic landscapes, Tucson hiking trails are second to none.

Sabino Canyon – Waterfalls & Desert Beauty

Sabino Canyon is a must-visit for Tucson visitors. With paved and unpaved trails, waterfalls, and creeks, it’s one of the most beautiful desert escapes near the city.

Saguaro National Park – Iconic Cactus Trails

Home to the legendary giant saguaro cactus, Saguaro National Park offers hundreds of miles of trails. From short scenic walks to backcountry treks, it’s an unforgettable Tucson hiking experience.

Tumamoc Hill – Sunset Views Near Downtown

A local favorite, Tumamoc Hill is a paved 3-mile roundtrip hike close to downtown Tucson. Popular at sunrise and sunset, it offers sweeping city and mountain views.

Golf in Oro Valley

Golf enthusiasts will love the championship golf in Oro Valley, set against panoramic desert and mountain backdrops.

El Conquistador Golf Club

A premier golf destination, El Conquistador Golf Club offers 45 holes spread across three scenic courses. With breathtaking Catalina Mountain views, it’s a must for golfers of all levels.

The Views Golf Club at Oro Valley

As the name suggests, The Views Golf Club offers spectacular desert and mountain vistas. It’s known for well-kept greens, friendly staff, and a course suitable for beginners and experienced players alike.

Golf in Tucson

Tucson is home to world-class golf resorts that attract players year-round.

Tucson National Resort

The Tucson National Resort has hosted PGA Tour events and offers two championship courses. It combines desert landscapes with lush fairways, delivering a challenging yet enjoyable golf experience.

Randolph Golf Complex

As one of the busiest municipal golf facilities in the U.S., Randolph Golf Complex offers affordable, well-maintained courses that appeal to locals and visitors.

Biking & Cycling

Both Oro Valley and Tucson are top-rated destinations for cyclists, offering paved paths, scenic mountain routes, and everything in between.

The Loop – Tucson’s 130-Mile Paved Path

“The Loop” is Tucson’s crown jewel for cycling—a 130-mile paved multi-use path that circles the city. Perfect for road biking, walking, and family rides, it’s one of the best ways to explore Tucson.

Oro Valley Bike Routes – Honey Bee Canyon & Pusch Ridge

Oro Valley is a bike-friendly town with well-marked routes. The Honey Bee Canyon loop and Pusch Ridge climbs are local favorites, offering beautiful scenery and safe, cyclist-friendly roads.