Sweetwater Preserve

map4001 North Tortolita Road
Tucson, AZ 85745
Open: Dawn - Dusk

Get driving directions 
Parks and Amenities Interactive Map
Sweetwater Preserve Trail System Map 
Sweetwater Preserve Trailhead
Virtual Tour of Sweetwater Preserve

Features/Amenities

  • Equestrian access
  • Trails

Outdoor Activities

  • Hiking
  • Dogs on leash allowed 
  • Mountain biking
  • Horseback riding
  • Trail running

The Sweetwater Preserve is a 880+ acre preserve located in the eastern foothills of the Tucson Mountains of Southern Arizona, west of Tucson. Within approximately one-half mile of the Preserve are Saguaro National Park’s Tucson Mountain District, and a biological research preserve owned by the University of Arizona. Tucson Mountain Park is also located a short distance to the south.

The lands that comprise the Sweetwater Preserve were acquired using monies from the 2004 Open Space Bond measure. The community strongly supported acquisition of this property and worked diligently to realize the establishment of this preserve.

County crews and volunteers have built 15 miles of trails in the preserve, which was ranked #4 in the nation in Singletracks.com, an online mountain bicycling magazine. While the trails are enjoyed by equestrians, hikers, dog walkers and trail runners, it is highly popular with mountain bikers, both local and visitors. Trails are suitable for beginner and intermediate level riders.

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Natural Resources, Parks and Recreation

3500 W. River Road
Tucson, AZ 85741

(520) 724-5000


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