Description:​

Agua Caliente Park is a cool oasis in the warm Tucson desert. The park is made up of three spring-fed ponds surrounded by a forest of palm trees, and beyond that, a lush desert ecosystem. Visitors stroll over 100 acres along two miles of trails, of which half are paved and half are flat, natural surfaces. It is a unique hike with plenty of shade trees, numerous benches and picnic tables, and a series of interpretive signs describing birds, reptiles, plants, and history. All park facilities were updated in a massive restoration project in 2020.

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The park has a human history dating back 1000s of years and still retains the buildings from a private ranch established in the 1800s. The historic ranch house has been transformed into a visitor center and art gallery, staffed by docents during posted days and hours. There are also art sculptures along the trails, including a turtle bench. A permanent binocular station along the trail provides a close-up look at animals and the surrounding mountains.

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The park is open from sunrise to sunset, and on any visit, you are likely to see turtles, warblers, waterfowl, and roadrunners. Sometimes, ornithologists lead birding tours for guests who are pre-registered with the Tucson Audubon Society. Visitors can also attend lectures in the historic Rose Cottage which now serves as an education center. Some evenings, the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association sets up several telescopes for after-hours stargazing.

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A highlight of the park is a constructed island which is accessible by a wide bridge for a 360° view of the pond ecosystem. Also, a large, trimmed grassland is popular with families and hikers for post-hike picnics and bar-b-ques. Dogs are allowed on all trails but are discouraged from entering the visitor center and art gallery. The oasis-like surroundings of Agua Caliente Park attract many visitors, and you will rarely be alone on this trail.