Outdoor Adventurers Itinerary

Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, this itinerary has you covered with the best outdoor experiences in Oro Valley. From sunrise hikes and mountain biking to wildlife spotting and sunset picnics, each stop on this journey showcases the stunning landscapes and thrilling adventures that make Oro Valley a must-visit for nature lovers. Pack your gear, lace up your boots, and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and excitement of Oro Valley’s great outdoors. Here’s your guide to an unforgettable outdoor experience!

Cycling and Mountain Biking

Discover Oro Valley’s Bike-Friendly Routes

• Road Biking: With smooth roads and scenic views flanked by two mountain ranges, Oro Valley is a dream for cyclists. Ride through picturesque straightaways, or challenge yourself on hills that give way to sweeping desert landscapes. In this bike-friendly town, you’ll often find more cyclists than cars!
• Mountain Biking: For those looking for rugged terrain, head to the Big Wash Trailhead, just a mile from Honey Bee Canyon Park. Known as a mountain biking paradise, this trail offers incredible desert views and opportunities to catch sunrises and sunsets among the cacti.
• Pump Biking: The pump track at Naranja Park is a looped path designed for cyclists to maintain momentum with minimal pedaling. It features berms, rollers and multiple transfer points, allowing riders to enjoy various loops and challenges.

Birding

Enjoy World-Class Birding Spots

• Catalina State Park: Catalina State Park is a top birding destination, with trails that take you through desert landscapes, riparian areas, and oak woodlands. Keep an eye out for the Gila Woodpecker, Black-chinned Sparrow, Northern Cardinal, and Pyrrhuloxia.
• Honey Bee Canyon Park: Honey Bee Canyon Park offers scenic walking trails along the Honeybee Wash. This riparian area is home to various bird species. Keep an eye out for the Yellow-breasted Chat, Zone-tailed Hawk, Black-throated Sparrow, and Green-tailed Towhee. Take in the beauty of the desert vegetation and don’t miss the chance to spot petroglyphs while watching for birds!
• Tohono Chul Park: This botanical garden and nature preserve provide a tranquil setting for birdwatching. You may spot birds such as the Verdin, Cactus Wren, Greater Roadrunner, and Gambel's Quail.
• Linda Vista Trail: Located near the boundary of the Coronado National Forest, the Linda Vista Trail provides access to the Pusch Ridge Wilderness area. Bird enthusiasts can observe species such as the Rufous-winged Sparrow, Black-tailed Gnatcatcher, and Curve-billed Thrasher.
• The Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve: This preserve features a 6.2-mile paved path winding through the Sonoran Desert, offering views of the Catalina and Tortolita mountains. The area is home to a variety of bird species, including the American Avocet, Common Yellowthroat, Great Blue Heron, and Belted Kingfisher.

Golf and Disc Golf

Play with a View of the Santa Catalina Mountains

• Golf: Oro Valley is a golfer’s dream, with several renowned courses offering a true desert golf experience. Choose from El Conquistador Golf, The Views Golf Club, the Golf Club at Dove Mountain, La Paloma, and the Omni Tucson National. Each course combines challenging play with beautiful mountain scenery.
• Disc Golf: If you’re looking to try something new, head to the Pusch Ridge Course in summer (June through September) for an 18-hole championship disc golf experience. Set at the foot of the Santa Catalina Mountains, this course is perfect for beginners and seasoned players alike.

Hiking Trails

Explore Stunning Trails for All Levels

• Catalina State Park: Located at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains, Catalina State Park offers a variety of trails for all skill levels. From easy, scenic walks to more challenging routes, hikers can explore lush desert landscapes, seasonal streams, and panoramic mountain views, making it a must-visit spot for nature enthusiasts.
• Honey Bee Canyon Park: This popular trail offers a moderate hike with petroglyph sightings and beautiful desert views. It’s a great option for morning hikes when temperatures are cool, providing a peaceful and scenic experience in the heart of Oro Valley.
• Linda Vista Trail: Known for its sweeping views of the valley, Linda Vista is ideal for hikers looking to immerse themselves in desert scenery. The trail is moderate, but it rewards hikers with stunning landscapes and the chance to spot wildlife along the way.

Tennis and Pickleball

Play Outdoor Sports with Mountain Views

• Tennis at El Conquistador: With 31 lighted courts across two locations, El Conquistador Tennis offers top-notch facilities for tennis enthusiasts. Play a set or two while soaking in the fresh air and dramatic mountain backdrop.
• Pickleball at the Community & Recreation Center: Pickleball players can enjoy newly constructed courts at the Oro Valley Community & Recreation Center. These courts are a hit among locals and visitors, providing a fun way to stay active with stunning views of the Catalina Mountains.