Phoneline Trail

A classic Sabino traverse that leaves the canyon floor and contours high above the creek, trading switchbacks for rolling ups and downs and wide views up-canyon and back toward Tucson.

Phoneline threads the canyon wall on a rocky bench, crossing old telephone poles and dry side washes while the main creek runs far below. Expect steady, sun-baked climbing, constant little punches in and out of drainages, and long stretches where the shuttle road and desert floor feel a world away.