We are currently working to improve the infrastructure at the park. Construction will be ongoing for the next year, with minimal impacts on visitor areas. Please stay clear of construction zones.
The is currently a water shortage at the park. No filling will be allowed at the park.
Guided Hike to the Peak on the Hunter Trail
Picacho Peak State Park
Twice Monthly (October - April) See times in schedule
Join a park guide on the Hunter Trail and enjoy 360-degree views from 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 1,600 feet. Meet at the Hunter Trailhead on the Barrett Loop. Register at the link below.
- Total distance is 3.2 miles round-trip and takes 4-5 hours to complete
- Not recommended for inexperienced hikers
- No children under the age of 10
- No dogs
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 3 liters on the hunter trail hike, and at least 4 liters on the sunset trail hike. 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
Upcoming Dates
- October 19 - 8 a.m.
- November 9 - 8 a.m.
- November 23 - 8 a.m.
- December 14 - 8 a.m.
- December 21 - 10 a.m.
- January 1 (First Day Hike) - 10 a.m.
- January 11 - 8 a.m.
- January 25 - 8 a.m.
- February 8 - 8 a.m.
- February 15 - 10 a.m.
- March 8 - 8 a.m.
- March 22 - 8 a.m.
- March 29 - 8 a.m.
- April 19 - 8 a.m.
MORE EVENTS
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Various Saturdays (November - March)
Guided Hike on the Sunset Vista Trail
Join a park guide on the scenic Sunset Vista Trail that will lead you to the top of Picacho Peak. Registration required.
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Feb 8 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Mar 22
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 Ranger Ethan in a 30 minute short loop as we identify the many types of cacti you can find at the park.
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March 1 & 16, 2025
Junior Ranger Guided Hike
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 all ages!
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March 22 and 23
Civil War Living History Displays
Come see Civil War living history displays at Picacho Peak State Park, the site of the furthest west battlefield of the Civil War. Living history demonstrations and interpretive talks will occur throughout the day.
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January 26, March 23
PokePeak (A PokemonGo Hike)
Come on down to Picacho Peak and start your Pokemon Go adventure with a ranger by your side! This short hike will bring you to multiple stops where you can catch, collect, and learn about the desert around you and the creatures that might be here.
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March 29 | April 19
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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Monthly (October - March)
Geology Tour at Picacho Peak State Park
Join us for a geology experience at Picacho Peak State Park! Learn about the volcanic origins of the peak and surrounding parkland. Registration required!
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March 29, 2025
Concert at Picacho Peak - Yampa Valley Steve
Enjoy music at the park with Yampa Valley Steve, whose motto is "Loaded with Music, Have Fun, Will Travel."
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Sunday, March 30, 2025
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 Ranger Noah 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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February 27, March 30, 2025
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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First Saturday (October-April)
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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May 3, 2025
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.
