Tumamoc Hill

Buttes are geological formations that feature steep, often nearly-vertical sides that lead to a flattened plateau. These hills, which are found throughout the state of Arizona, create a unique landscape that our drivers often enjoy as they perform their duties. Tumamoc Hill is one such feature located near “A” Mountain and downtown Tucson. This popular hiking spot is also home to a University of Arizona research and education facility, as well as a small university-owned telescope observatory.

About Tumamoc Hill

Tumamoc Hill takes its name from the O’odham word for “regal horned lizard.” This site was once inhabited by the native Hohokam people and contains the earliest-identified trincheras village, as well as over 400 preserved petroglyphs. The butte reaches a height of 3,108 feet at its highest point and was used by settlers as a source of clay and rock for building purposes in the late 1800s.

Hiking Tumamoc Hill

Tumamoc Hill is a popular day destination for hikers and runners—as many as 7,000 people climb it every week. Because of the butte’s steep slope, its 1.5-mile road increases 600 feet in elevation from beginning to end. From the top of the road, hikers are rewarded with a striking 360-degree view of the city and the surrounding desert landscape. The public may access the road at any time except the hours of 7:30am—5:30pm Monday through Friday, making it a particularly popular spot from which to view the desert sunset.

Xcel Delivery is pleased to include this article as part of our ongoing blog series, Arizona’s Amazing Roadside Attractions.

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