Wild Burro Trail

Breathtaking desert scenery, wildlife, and petroglyphs dating back to 1100 A.D. should put Wild Burro Trail at the top of your pup’s hiking wish list. Located north of Tucson, the trailhead is adjacent to the Dove Mountain Ritz-Carlton, where bathrooms are available. Venture into the Tortolita Mountains on this puptastic trail and soak up some Arizona sun.

The trail cuts through a sandy wash for about a mile before it heads up a hill. If you don’t have much time or your pup is just in the mood for a shorter stroll, this is a great place to turn around and head back. Fido will still get to see plenty of cacti and experience the serenity of the desert. To continue on, follow the Wild Burro Trail signs. This is where the climbing begins! Be prepared for some challenging terrain; you’ll traipse through loose sand and have to cross some rocky patches. You know you are at the end of the trail when you come to windmill and water tank.

Since this is just one trail in a larger system, there are several options to switch up your hike. In fact, the Wild Burro Trail can easily be turned into a loop. For a shorter route, follow Lower Javelina Trail before connecting back to Wild Burro. If your doggo has a lot of energy to burn, take the Alamo Springs cutoff. It will eventually loop back to the main Wild Burro trail.

While hiking the trail, keep your four legged buddy on leash and always clean up after them. Also, be sure to watch for wildlife. Not only will you see a stunning array of native plants like yucca, agave, and jojoba, but you may catch a glimpse of a tortoise, hawk or even a jack rabbit. Take advantage of the puptastic background and snap some photos with your pooch. You’ll want to remember this hike fur-ever!