Tucson Mountain Park

Name: Tucson Mountain Park, Bowen and Yetman Trails

Park’s agency: Pima County

Contact: (520) 724-5000

Location: 3764-3766 W Starr Pass Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85745

Parking fee: There is no parking at the trailhead. Hikers are encouraged to use valet parking ($4/4h) or guest parking ($6/6h) at the nearby Starr Pass Resort and walk through the resort to the Bowen Trailhead. 

Trail hours: 24 hours, year-round

Nature & Interpretive Center hours: Visitor Center, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Oct 1 – May 31), 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (June 1—September 30) daily

Transit: None

Trail length plus more: 2.8 miles roundtrip, Gain 190’, Elevation 2800’, Grades 0-8°, Curb 6” at trailhead, Width narrows to 2’ in sections 

Trail surface: Rugged natural surface with rocky sections, cross-trail boulders, loose stones, a sandy wash, and multiple sets of rock stairs 

Dogs: Not allowed on this wilderness trail.

Description:

Tucson Mountain Park covers 20,000 acres of stunning desert terrain with over 60 miles of shared-use trails. The Bowen Trail, merging with the Yetman Trail, passes through a dense saguaro forest to the remote ruins of the Bowen Stone House, which was constructed in the 1930s. The natural beauty and historical significance of this two-trail hike have made it a Tucson favorite. Dogs are not allowed on this wilderness trail.

The hike starts at the Bowen Trailhead, which is located just across the street from Tucson’s Starr Pass Resort. There are no parking or amenities at the trailhead. So, many hikers pay $6 to park at the resort, walk the length of the property, and then cross a small street to begin the hike. The resort accommodates hikers with access to restrooms, a café, and a small store. This awkward process may take up to 15 minutes from the car to the trailhead.

The hike then follows a moderately level route, rising only 190′ from start to finish. However, the trail surface is challenging due to rocky sections, cross-trail boulders, loose stones, a sandy wash, and multiple sets of rock stairs. At some points, the trail narrows to a body width as cholla, saguaro, and prickly pear cactus grow into the path, making it worse as hikers share the trail with bikers, joggers, and wildlife.

Hikers who can overcome such obstacles are rewarded with a stop at the ruins of the ranch house where Sherry and Ruby Bowen homesteaded during the Great Depression and World War II. Only the foundation walls, traces of old fireplaces, and empty window frames are left. But hikers can read signboards about their lives and imagine their rugged existence.

This out-and-back hike is 2.8 miles, as the return route retraces the hike to the Bowen trailhead. When you pass back through the resort, you may be tempted to stop for a cold drink on the patio with a view of the city before heading home.

Disclaimer: The information provided is for general guidance only and may not reflect current conditions. Users must assess trails, consider their abilities, and assume all risks in the trail. We accept no responsibility for any injuries or incidents that may occur. Always use caution and prepare appropriately when visiting trails.