Tortolita Mountain Park

I like this mountain range. If it weren't a two-hour drive from Sierra Vista, I'd hike here more often. I've done all the trails in the past five years. Because this is a low-elevation range dominated by saguaros, hiking here is best done in the cooler months.The trails are maintained by local volunteers. To get to the ample parking lot, you must drive toward the resort. Just tell the guard you are here to hike and s/he'll let you through. Ask for a map, as there aren't always maps available at the parking lot. There are flush bathrooms by the trail head.One does not need a high clearance vehicle to get to the parking lot. All trails start here by the wash. The trails are color-coordinated and well-marked.My favorite trails are the ridge trails, where views in all directions surround you. The Wild Mustang trail is perhaps my favorite, with views toward the north at Mount Lemmon.The northern part of this range was recently expanded. I've seen a few crested saguaros here. There is also an old corral there that has water in the rainy season.Trails are dog-friendly, but many dog owners just leave their bagged feces along the trail. Please take that crap with you! This is my only complaint about this park.

Tortolita Mountain Park is a local gem with 12 trails of varying lengths and difficulty. 8 may be used for mountain biking and 2 for horseback riding. The trail system also is used for the annual Move Across 2 Ranges hosted by Marana (Tortolita Mountain Park) and Oro Valley (Catalina State Park), which always sells out. My partner and I enjoy the long-distance views of Picacho Peak from Upper Javelina Trail and views Of the Santa Ritas from Alamo Springs Trail. All of the trails are well-groomed. We always use poles and bring plenty of water so we can cover more ground.