Baboquivari Peak Wilderness

On Arizona's smallest designated Wilderness, Baboquivari Peak rises sharply to dominate the scenic desert terrain of the east side of the Baboquivari Range, near the Mexican border. On the western side of the range lies the Tohono O'odham Nation. Elevations range from 4,500 feet on the desert floor to 7,730 feet on the summit. Vegetation in the higher country includes oak, walnut, and pinon, while chaparral graces the lower elevations. Wildlife includes javelina, coyote, Coues whitetail deer, mule deer, mountain lion, bobcat, ringtail, coati, and badger. Bird species include crested caracara, Harris' hawk, black vulture, prairie falcon, golden eagle, peregrine falcon, and scaled quail. You can hike along animal tracks on the informal trails, and the Humphrey Ranch maintains a pedestrian easement to the edge of the Wilderness in Thomas Canyon. The hiking is strenuous, but the rewards are solitude and splendid vistas. Baboquivari, near the southern end of the area, rates as the only major peak in the state requiring technical climbing ability to reach the summit, a popular attraction for rock climbers. Always carry plenty of water.