Rattlesnake Lollipop

Length: 2.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 350 ft

Overview

Don’t let the name of this loop scare you! This is a great option for those looking for a relatively relaxed journey that gives you a real taste of Sabino Canyon including canyon views and water access. The majority of this hike is on the Sabino Canyon Roadway, 1-mile is off pavement on Rattlesnake Trail and part of Esperero Trail.

Directions

From the visitor center, take the main roadway up Sabino Canyon for 1 mile to Shuttle Stop 1. Across the road from Shuttle Stop 1 visitors will find the Canyon Interpretive Outpost, restrooms, water, picnic tables and access to Sabino Creek, making this an enjoyable place for a break.

Once you’re ready to continue on, pick up Rattlesnake Trail on the west side of the road. This trail runs 0.4 miles through Rattlesnake Wash and ends at a junction with Esperero Trail. At the junction, make a hard left (south) on Esperero Trail. This 0.5-mile segment of Esperero Trail climbs to an excellent viewpoint of Sabino Canyon and then winds back down to join rejoin Sabino Canyon Roadway. Walk the road southwest 0.6 miles back to the visitor center for a total hike distance of 2.9 miles.

Safety

Be sure to visit the Know Before You Go page for additional safety information.

Topographic map of Sabino Canyon Recreation Area, featuring the Rattlesnake Lollipop in purple. This hike starts and ends at the Visitor Center, utilizing Sabino Canyon Roadway for the majority of the hike and creating a loop with both the Rattlesnake and Esperero Trails.
From left to right, the elevation profile flows counterclockwise around the Rattlesnake Lollipop. Hike reaches a max elevation of 2,900 ft and climbs and descends over 350 ft.
From left to right, the elevation profile flows counterclockwise around the Rattlesnake Lollipop.