Seven Falls in Bear Canyon northeast of Tucson — in spectacular flow with snowmelt from the Catalina Mountains — is attracting legions of waterfall watchers this week even though reaching the site involves a rigorous hike with several stream crossings.
Bear Canyon is a steep slash in the Catalina Mountains just southeast of Sabino Canyon, and Seven Falls plunges noisily into it from the heights above.
During periods of rainfall and snowmelt, a large pool forms at the base of the falls. An expansive deck of rock beside the pool offers an inviting spot to sit down and enjoy the spectacle.
Some scenic sites in the Tucson area are reachable by vehicle or a short, easy walk. Not Seven Falls.
It’s an 8-mile round-trip hike to the falls on the Bear Canyon Trail from the Sabino Canyon visitor center — and the route involves seven stream crossings and some steep uphill sections. Some visitors choose to shorten the round-trip hiking route by more than 2 miles by taking the Bear Canyon shuttle ($4 for adults) to the mouth of the canyon.
Hikers are advised to take sun protection, energy food and plenty of water. Stay well back from steep drop-offs and keep a close watch on youths.
The Sabino Canyon visitor center is at 5700 N. Sabino Canyon Road.
