Stage II fire restrictions are in effect.
Guided Hike to the Peak on the Sunset Vista Trail
Picacho Peak State Park
Saturdays, Nov 7, 2026 | Feb 6, 2027 10 a.m.
Join a park guide on the scenic Sunset Vista Trail that will lead you to the top of Picacho Peak. This is a challenging hike that involves steep switchbacks, rock scrambles, climbing up several cableways, and an elevation change of 1,800 ft. Total distance is 6.2 miles round trip and takes about 4 hours to complete.
Not recommended for inexperienced hikers. No children under the age of 10 and no dog.
Meet at the Sunset Vista Trailhead.
Free with paid park entry. The following items are REQUIRED to attend a guided peak hike. Park staff have the right to turn away unprepared hikers at the trailhead.
- Water: Bring a minimum of 4 liters of water. Consider using a water bladder or hydration pack for easy water storage.
- Clothing: Wear close-toed hiking shoes, lightweight clothing and a head covering. Gloves are recommended for the cableways. Guided peak hikes involve very rocky terrain, so tennis shoes and sandals are not appropriate footwear
- Sunscreen: We recommend at least SPF 30
Call park to register at 520-466-3183 or register online!
Program Dates
- November 7 - 10 a.m.
- February 6 - 10 a.m.
MORE EVENTS
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Twice Monthly (October - April)- Saturdays
Guided Hike to the Peak on the Hunter Trail
Join a park guide on the Hunter Trail and enjoy 360-degree views from the top of Picacho Peak. Registration required.
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Monthly, Oct 17, 2026 - April 17, 2027
Guided Hike on the Calloway Trail
Join our park guide as you trek the Calloway Trail at Picacho Peak! Learn about hiking safety as you enjoy the surroundings up to the Calloway overlook--situated under the face of Picacho Peak. All skill levels are welcome on this guided hike! Registration required.
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Various Sundays Nov 2026 - Mar 2027
Desert Duos at Picacho Peak State Park
Have you ever had a best friend you just couldn’t live without? Well, residents here at Picacho Peak take that quite literally.
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Various Dates Nov 16, 2027-Mar 19, 2027
Scorpion Hunt at Picacho!
Join our rangers in a search for some amazing scorpions! Look by rocks, in bushes, and even just crawling around on the ground. These skittering scorpions are not too hard to find once you start looking.
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Twice monthly (November-March)
Junior Ranger Guided Hike at Picacho Peak
Do you and your kids love being outside? Are you all fascinated with nature? Then come out to Picacho Peak State Park for a Junior Ranger Guided Hike! Join a ranger on a short hike in our park that is suitable for ages 5 and up!
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Various Dates Nov 13, 2026 - Apr 23, 2027
Star Party at Picacho Peak
Come out for a night under the stars at Picacho Peak State Park! The Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association will be on site with high-powered telescopes and guides to the night sky.
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Various Fridays, Nov 20, 2026 - March 26, 2027
Night Hikes at Picacho Peak
Join us for a magical hike under the night sky.
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Saturday-Sunday, November 21-22, 2026
An American Civil War Encampment: Special Event
Learn about the life of a Civil War soldier! Enjoy food from Calvin's Still Smokin BBQ, a Ranger talk, and weapons demonstration!
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Nov. 21 | Dec. 19 | Jan. 16 | Feb. 20 | March 20
Shelter Dog Walking Program
We are partnering with Pinal County Animal Care and Control to help get shelter dogs out on the trail! Join us to walk dogs along the Nature Loop at the park.
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Friday, November 27, 2027
S'mores and Stories Campfire at Picacho Peak
Join a ranger for a classic evening of outdoor fun at the campground amphitheater.
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Various Saturdays Nov. 2026 - Mar. 2027
Curious About Cactus at Picacho Peak State Park
The Sonoran Desert is home to many different prickly cacti - from the tiniest Hedgehog cactus to the tallest Saguaro. Join our rangers on a 30-minute short loop around the Sage Ramada as we identify the many types of cacti and succulents you can find in the Sonoran Desert region.
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Various Saturdays, Dec 19, 2026-Mar 13, 2027
The Soldier's March
Have you ever heard of the Battle of Picacho Pass? Do you want to know what happened that fateful day? Join a ranger for a short walk through the history of the most westward Civil War battle that took place in Arizona. Learn the who, what, where, and why of the battle and how it affected the path to statehood for Arizona.
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January 1, 2027
First Day Hike at Picacho Peak
Start 2027 with a guided hike on New Year's Day! Choose your adventure between Hunter and Calloway Trail!
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Jan 2, 2027 | Jan 17, 2027 | Feb 14, 2027
Picacho Peak Bird Walk
Walk the trails with one of our rangers and learn of the many birds inhabiting the Sonoran Desert region!
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Various Dates Jan 2027 - Mar 2027
Into the Snake Den
Join our park rangers at Picacho Peak State Park and learn about some simply spectacular serpents! From the tricky hognose to the stunning rattler, these snakes are absolutely ecstatic to meet you!
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Friday, March 12, 2027
Thank the Stars Above at Picacho Peak
Come down to Picacho Peak State Park and take a look at the beautiful stars above. In this program, you will learn about some of the constellations in our night skies.
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Sundays Mar 14, 2027 | Mar 28, 2027
Geology Hike on the Calloway Trail at Picacho Peak
Join our guided geology hike along the Calloway Trail.
