Blackett’s Ridge Trail is a popular out-and-back hike in Tucson, Arizona. This trail will bring you to the 4,341 foot summit of Saddleback. This hike is 5.5 miles long and gains over 1,900 feet of elevation.
This hike begins at the Sabino Canyon Visitors Center. From the parking lot, you will begin hiking East on Bear Canyon Trail #29 for 0.5 miles. This is a flat and wide portion of trail that passes by Saguaro, Ocotillo, Cholla, and various other cacti. This trail eventually becomes paved.
You will follow the paved path across Sabino Creek and take Phonline Trail #27. This is where you begin hiking up towards the ridge. The trail gains just over 300 feet of elevation over the next 0.6 miles.
From here, you will take Blackett’s Ridge Trail #48. It is now 1.5 miles to the end of the trail and to the summit of Saddleback. This section of the trail gains over 1,300 feet of elevation and rewards you with better and better views. The trail can be rocky at times as you steeply hike up the ridge. You will encounter a few false summits on your way to the end of the Blackett’s Ridge Trail.
At the end of the trail you are treated to stunning views of Thimble Peak and the rugged Santa Catalina Mountains. To the South, the city of Tucson is visible. Views of the Santa Rita Mountains and the Tucson Mountains are possible on clear days.
The Blackett’s Ridge Trail is open year-round and there is an 8 dollar fee to enter the Sabino Canyon Recreation Area. Dogs are not allowed on this trail. There are not any reliable water sources on this hike, so be sure to bring plenty of water. The Blackett’s Ridge Trail is strenuous, but well worth the effort.
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