The Río Rico Trail runs for several miles parallel to the Anza Route; at the Rio Rico History Museum, the town’s history and culture take center stage. Each offers a different way to explore: spend time outdoors or learn about Rio Rico’s history and culture. Other options include ranger-guided hikes at mission sites, year-round opportunities for horseback riding and hiking, and outdoor activities along the Santa Cruz River. When planning your visit, you can first decide whether culture, physical activity or scenery should be the focus of your stay.

Río Rico Trail and the route to Tumacácori

The Río Rico Trail begins at a parking area at the trailhead on Río Rico Road and runs for several miles parallel to the Anza Route. From the trail, visitors can reach Tumacácori by bike or on foot when it is not too hot. Keep the heat in mind when choosing between the two ways of getting there.

History at the museum and mission sites

The Rio Rico History Museum explores Rio Rico’s history and culture. It is open Thursday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; admission is free. If you plan your visit in advance, check the opening hours again beforehand. Free admission also means you do not need to budget for an admission fee.

The “Guevavi and Calabazas Missions Tour” includes a ranger-led interpretive hike at each site. Some of the paths leading to the mission ruins are unpaved; at Calabazas, there is an uphill section. The trail conditions are therefore a factor in deciding whether to take this tour: in this respect, it differs from a museum visit. When choosing between the cultural options, you can weigh set opening hours and free admission against a ranger-led hike at the mission sites.

Activities and landscapes

Residents and visitors can enjoy horseback riding and hiking in Rio Rico year-round. The Santa Cruz River offers additional trails and opportunities for outdoor activities. Mountain biking and birdwatching are other activities to consider. Each offers a different focus: hiking and horseback riding involve getting around on foot or by horse, mountain biking involves traveling by bike, and birdwatching is about observing birds. You can weigh physical activity and nature observation as different interests for your stay.

Rio Rico features mountains and open spaces, as well as striking sunrises and sunsets. These landscape features add another dimension to choosing the area, beyond the individual activities. You can also decide whether mountains, open spaces and sunrises or sunsets are among the experiences you are looking for on a trip.

Discover more destinations: Amado, Patagonia, Tubac, Nogales

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