Description:​

​​​

Feliz Paseos Park offers a unique hiking experience in the Tucson Mountain foothills. It was developed in 2006 with the express goal of “enabling people with physical challenges to enjoy natural open space.” The park provides a 2-mile network of paved and gravel trails through 57 acres of the Sonoran Desert. The stroll along this desert mesa allows panoramic views of both the surrounding mountains and the nearby city of Tucson. Shady ramadas are situated at key points in the park to provide up-close views of geology, plants, and desert wildlife. Dogs are allowed on leash on all trails.

The park is located along the Camino de Oeste Wash which is only a 15-minute drive from downtown Tucson. The trailhead has ample parking, an accessible restroom, drinking fountains, and an information sign to get hikers off to a good start on the trail. The hike begins with a short 0.2-mile paved loop, connecting to longer gravel trails, and leading eventually to the outermost reaches of the park. Signs along the trails identify each loop by name and give a detailed trail description including slope, width, and obstacles. Dozens of interpretive signs along the trails describe the interesting plants and animals that have adapted to this challenging desert ecosystem.

In addition to the natural beauty, the park displays architectural designs inspired by the work of the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Massive ramadas and stylish benches are built with mosaics of local stone. Paths are lined with large boulders and a variety of rocks that were displaced during trail construction. Hand-placed stones form colorful rock rivers and make pedestrian traffic circles along the hike. The park is truly a place where art imitates nature.

This park is not heavily visited despite being so close to town. At any time of day, you may find yourself strolling solo with only the sounds of birds and the wind rustling through the trees.

The Spanish name Feliz Paseos aptly translates to Happy Wandering in English.

That is, hikers can immerse themselves in the Sonoran Desert while feeling safe,

serene, and in one word, happy.​