9 hotels near Sabino Canyon Recreation Area, 5700 N Sabino Canyon Rd, Tucson, AZ 85750, USA

Located in the Catalina Mountains and part of the Coronado National Forest, this beautiful canyon gives visitors the opportunity to explore its spectacular desert landscapes and scenic vistas via hiking, biking, a narrated shuttle bus tour, or a tram ride. The whole family can enjoy swimming, standing under waterfalls and picnicking while soaking up the warm Arizona sunshine. Abundant wildlife in the canyon includes deer, javelina, skunks, tortoises, rattlesnakes and mountain lions. During the winter and summer rainy seasons, pools of water form in rocky outcroppings that wind up among hillsides resplendent with palo verde trees, cholla and prickly pear cactus and graceful groves of ocotillo. Some of the earliest human occupants of this area were the Native American Hohokam people. An earthquake centered in northern Mexico in 1887 dislodged massive boulders lining the canyon walls, which came to rest in the valley below. In 1905, the newly created U.S. Forest Service began its administration of the canyon. During the Great Depression, the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and Emergency Relief Administration (ERA) built Sabino Dam and nine bridges over Sabino Creek in an attempt to build a road to the top of Mount Lemmon. The road travels about four and one-half miles into the canyon, but was not completed due to the steep terrain at the end of the canyon. Ever since the first trams began operating here in October of 1978, access to the upper portions of the canyon by car has been restricted, but those areas are accessible by foot, bicycle, or tram. Whether you are traveling to Tucson on business or vacation, don’t miss the opportunity to explore lovely Sabino Canyon. Hotels in the area allow you to stay conveniently nearby to where you want to be. When you stay at Choice Hotels, you can enjoy affordable rates, many amenities, and friendly service. Reserve your room today! We look forward to hosting you soon!