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A very steep, rocky & technical ascent that rewards with AMAZING views of Tucson.


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Map Key

1.5

Miles

2.4

KM

56%

Runnable

4,391' 1,338 m

High

3,011' 918 m

Low

1,380' 421 m

Up

0' 0 m

Down

17%

Avg Grade (10°)

45%

Max Grade (24°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Views

Runner Notes

While this trail isn't long, it's quite steep and technical which makes it slower going than most would anticipate. The descent can be more treacherous with the larger boulders and loose footing.

Description

From the Sabino Canyon Visitor Center head to the far east side of the lot and out the dirt path leading due east towards the Phoneline Trail. Once you hit the paved roadway, head right, continuing out to the east. Proceed down the hill and take another right crossing the Sabino Creek over the bridge and look for the Phoneline Trail straight ahead once across. Follow the Phoneline Trail up until you come to the Blacketts Ridge sign and turn right on it up the hill. Follow Blacketts all the way up the switchbacks and ridgeline to the top and signage at the end of Blacketts Ridge Trail. The trail is pretty easy to follow all the way up.

This is a very popular hiking and trail running route that culminates in some of the most amazing views of Tucson, Sabino Canyon & Bear Canyon. The route is very steep, extremely rocky, and quite technical in many sections. First timers should plan on it taking longer than the mileage would indicate, so bring appropriate water & supplies as necessary. The descent can be fun but treacherous with the number of larger boulders you'll hop down. Beware of loose footing or catching a toe as the terrain isn't very forgiving. Round trip from the parking lot will be about 5.75 miles and just about 1,800 feet of climbing.

Flora & Fauna

You'll find many desert natives including smaller lizards, plenty of cactus, and the occasional bird of prey.

Contacts

Shared By:

Stephen Woodall

Trail Ratings

  4.6 from 25 votes

#187

Overall
  4.6 from 25 votes
5 Star
60%
4 Star
36%
3 Star
4%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#11

in Arizona

#187

Overall
37 Views Last Month
6,197 Since Jun 23, 2016
Difficult Difficult

0%
0%
5%
5%
80%
10%

Photos

Topping out with the city views in the background.
Jun 23, 2016 near Tanque…, AZ
Looking back at the trail and city below at one of the benches approx 3/4 way up.
Jan 6, 2018 near Tanque…, AZ
View looking northeast with North Upper Sabino Road in the distance.
Nov 12, 2017 near Tanque…, AZ

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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

All Clear 51 days ago
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