The Anza Trail from Tumacácori to Tubac is mostly flat, shaded, and follows the path of the Santa Cruz River.
NPS Photo
For Fun, Adventure, and Health
Hiking is a great way to exercise while exploring the cool, shady, and rich habitat along the Santa Cruz River. Start (or continue) your "I Hike For Health" challenge here at Tumacácori. This multi-park hiking challenge rewards you for hitting the trails and achieving distance goals.
Collectible pins for program participants are available at Tumacácori visitor center.
NPS Photo
Program Rules
In order to qualify for the award, you must hike 4 miles (6.4km) on the Anza Trail between Tumacácori National Historical Park and Tubac Presidio State Historic Park.
Each individual seeking the award must present at the Tumacácori visitor center a photograph of him or herself on the trail at a notable sign or landmark.
Please only one award per person.
Please observe posted regulations. Pets are allowed on a leash on the Anza Trail, but not in the mission grounds or visitor center.
Safe Hiking
Drink plenty of water. Weather is most often hot, and very dry. Bring at least one quart of drinking water per person. Check the Weather page for averages highs, lows, and forecasts.
Keep wildlife wild. Beware of rattlesnakes, mosquitoes, and prickly plants.
The flow in the Santa Cruz River between Rio Rico and Tubac consists almost completely of treated effluent released from the Nogales International Wastewater Treatment Facility.
Avoid contact with the river water.
Do not drink or wash with the water.
If you come into contact with river water, wash the affected area as soon as possible.
If you observe any illegal border-related activity, do not intervene. Note your location and leave the area immediately. Call 911 or report it to a ranger as quickly as possible.
Free Hiker's Shuttles
Don't have a second car to pick you up at the end of your hike? The park will provide a free shuttle for hikers on the third Saturday of the month, January through March 2024. From 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, a small bus will run continuously between the Tumacácori visitor center parking lot and the Anza Trail trailhead next to the Tubac Presidio State Historic Park. Dogs on leash are allowed in the van. Reservations are not necessary.
