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Arizona sunsets are mesmerizing for anyone that sees them. Whether you’re a local or just seeing our dramatic fiery orange-and-red skies for the first time, you can’t help but be blown away by the beauty right in front of you. Below is a list of some of the best spots for viewing the best sunsets right here in Tucson!
Grotto Hill at Mission San Xavier Del Bac
1950 W San Xavier Rd, Tucson, AZ 85746
Mission San Xavier Del Bac is a Spanish Catholic church that dates back to the 1700s. The church itself is stunning, and the views of Tucson’s sunset from Grotto Hill are breathtaking. Located just east of the Mission, you will find a religious shrine honoring the Virgin Mary halfway up the trail. Make sure to reach the top of the hill, only a quarter-mile trail, and take in the views of the Tucson and Catalina mountains. It is truly a sight to behold!
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Tumamoc Hill
Tumamoc Hill Rd, Tucson, AZ 85745
Our next spot for great sunset views is none other than Tumamoc Hill. This nature preserve owned by the University of Arizona is a popular hiking spot for those that seek moderate hiking challenges. The three-mile loop gets pretty steep on the ascent, but when you reach the top, it will be so worth it. Park your car on Anklam Road and bring a flashlight for your way back down. It takes about an hour and forty five minutes to complete, so bring comfy shoes as well!
Gates Pass
W Gates Pass Rd, Tucson, AZ 85745, USA
Gates Pass might take the cake for most stunning sunset views in Tucson. This mountain pass just west of Tucson is a paved road that has an elevation of over 3,000 feet. Yikes! But if you drive carefully and park at one of the many overlooks, you will get to see the best Tucson has to offer. Gates Pass can be pretty populated at sunrise and sunset, so try to get there early for a parking spot before the overlook/pullout areas get busy. The incandescent glow of the sun setting is so awe-inspiring, you won’t be able to look away.
Sentinel Peak
1001 S. Sentinel Peak Rd. Tucson AZ 85745
Sentinel Peak, or “A” Mountain, is another spot you’ll want to check out. “A” Mountain, given its name after University of Arizona students built a giant “A” on the east side. This mountain is located on the west side of Tucson and is open until sunset. Not only can you see the entire town from the summit, but it’s pretty easy to get to from the giant “A”, as there is a trail nearby that leads to it. The setting sun over the mountains is glorious.
Catalina State Park
11570 N Oracle Rd, Tucson, AZ 85737
Found at the base of the Catalina Mountains is Catalina State Park. This lovely state park is home to thousands of saguaro cactus in the surrounding area. There are several trails from the park, but if you’re looking for an easy route, take the Catalina Canyon Loop Trail, where you can look over several vistas to see the setting sun. There are benches along the 2.3-mile loop, so you can sit and enjoy the view.
