Reddington Pass
Experience the rugged beauty of the Sonoran Desert with off-roading, hiking to Chiva Falls, and scenic drives.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for exploring
Reddington Pass
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the rugged beauty of the Sonoran Desert with off-roading, hiking to Chiva Falls, and scenic drives.
"A roaring good time with wonderful view and hiking trails. Recommended."
🚗 Vehicle Check is Crucial
Ensure your vehicle is ready for rough terrain. High clearance and 4WD are recommended.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
The desert sun is intense. Stay hydrated, especially during hikes and off-road adventures.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Chiva Falls
Redington Pass
A beautiful waterfall destination, perfect for a refreshing dip or a scenic hike.

Off-Roading Adventures
Various trails
Experience thrilling rock crawling and trail riding on rugged dirt roads.

Scenic Desert Views
Throughout the pass
Enjoy breathtaking desert landscapes and mountain vistas.

Hiking Trails
Near Chiva Falls
Explore well-maintained trails offering stunning views and access to natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Vehicle Preparedness is Key
Camping & Regulations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Vehicle Check is Crucial
Ensure your vehicle is ready for rough terrain. High clearance and 4WD are recommended.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
The desert sun is intense. Stay hydrated, especially during hikes and off-road adventures.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes for hiking and navigating uneven terrain.
🏕️ Check Camping Rules
Dispersed camping is common, but verify current regulations before setting up camp.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Vehicle Check is Crucial
Ensure your vehicle is ready for rough terrain. High clearance and 4WD are recommended.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
The desert sun is intense. Stay hydrated, especially during hikes and off-road adventures.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes for hiking and navigating uneven terrain.
🏕️ Check Camping Rules
Dispersed camping is common, but verify current regulations before setting up camp.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera or phone to document the stunning desert scenery and waterfalls.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the beautiful desert views and the refreshing experience of Chiva Falls, making it a popular spot for hiking and off-roading. While the drive can be rough, many find it an easy and enjoyable adventure. Some note potential renovations affecting camping, so checking local advisories is recommended.
"Had a great hike, hadn't been here in years. The water was flowing fast and steady. We took our shoes and socks off and went in, it was at most 40° lol burr. We did both trails the lower one to the falls and the upper one behind the falls, it's a definite must if you haven't been!"
Jason Burlingame
"Lovely hiking trails. The camping areas are being removated so no camping until June. Not sure about offroading - you might wanna check with local authorities before taking the trip."
J NYC
"A roaring good time with wonderful view and hiking trails. Recommended."
Dillon Browne
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Redington Pass is accessible from Tucson, Arizona. The main route involves driving east on Tanque Verde Road, which eventually turns into a dirt road leading up the pass. It's recommended to have a vehicle suitable for unpaved, potentially rough terrain.
While some sections can be managed by standard vehicles, it's best suited for high-clearance and 4WD vehicles, especially if you plan to explore deeper or during less-than-ideal conditions.
The road is unpaved and can be rocky, uneven, and washboarded. Conditions can change, especially after rain. Always check local advisories if possible.
Cell service can be spotty to non-existent in many areas of Redington Pass. It's advisable to download offline maps or use a dedicated GPS device.
Absolutely! Redington Pass offers stunning desert mountain views and is considered a scenic route by many visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Redington Pass itself does not typically have an entrance fee, as it's a public access area. However, specific trailheads or developed areas within the vicinity might have associated fees.
Redington Pass is generally open to the public during daylight hours. There are no set operating hours for the natural landscape, but it's wise to be mindful of safety and darkness when visiting.
For general day use and dispersed camping, a permit is usually not required. However, it's always best to confirm with the local Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or Forest Service office for any specific regulations or temporary restrictions.
While off-roading and camping are popular, always be aware of fire restrictions, especially during dry seasons. Shooting is also permitted in designated areas, but follow all local laws and safety guidelines.
Yes, dispersed camping is a popular activity. Look for established sites or areas where others have camped. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Chiva Falls is a major highlight, offering beautiful waterfalls and hiking opportunities. The scenic drive itself and the rugged off-road trails are also major draws.
Yes, there are lovely hiking trails, particularly around Chiva Falls. Visitors enjoy exploring both the lower trails to the falls and upper trails behind them.
You might encounter desert wildlife such as javelinas, various birds, and reptiles. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance and do not feed them.
Families can enjoy a nice outing, especially for a hike to the waterfall. The easy drive and scenic beauty make it a good option for a family day trip.
The waterfalls, desert landscapes, cacti, and expansive mountain views offer numerous photo opportunities. Sunrises and sunsets can be particularly spectacular.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, Redington Pass is a natural area and does not have any restaurants or food services. You'll need to bring all your own food and drinks.
Pack plenty of water and snacks. If you plan to camp or have a longer outing, bring meals that are easy to prepare and pack out.
The nearest dining options will be back in Tucson. Plan to eat before you head up the pass or after you return.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing beautiful golden hour hues.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing both wide landscapes and details of the desert flora and fauna. A wide-angle lens is great for sweeping vistas.
Chiva Falls is a prime spot, but many pull-offs along the road offer stunning panoramic views of the Sonoran Desert. Don't forget to capture the unique cacti formations.
Drone usage is subject to federal and local regulations. Always check the latest FAA guidelines and any specific restrictions for the area before flying.
Look for opportunities to photograph the rugged terrain, the contrast between the desert and the sky, and any wildlife you might encounter. The drive itself offers many picturesque moments.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water, as there are no facilities. Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy amidst the scenic desert views. The relatively easy access to the falls makes it manageable for most families, but always supervise children closely, especially near water and on uneven trails.
🚗 Off-Road Enthusiasts
Ensure your vehicle is properly equipped with high clearance and 4WD. It's wise to travel with a buddy or inform someone of your route and expected return time, as cell service is unreliable. Be aware of trail conditions, which can change rapidly, especially after rain.
🏕️ Campers & Nature Lovers
Enjoy the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area, especially the waterfalls after monsoon rains. Be prepared for the desert environment by bringing ample water, sun protection, and appropriate gear.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Off-Roading and Vehicle Considerations
When planning your off-road adventure, consider the time of year. Summer can bring monsoon storms that can quickly turn dry washes into dangerous flash floods and make the roads muddy and impassable. Spring and fall offer more predictable and pleasant conditions for off-roading. Remember to inform someone of your plans and expected return time, as cell service is unreliable.
For those new to off-roading, starting with the main Redington Pass road and gradually exploring side trails is a good approach. Always be mindful of other users, including hikers and cyclists, and practice responsible off-roading by staying on designated trails and minimizing your impact on the environment.
Camping and Leave No Trace
When choosing a campsite, look for areas that have been previously used to minimize impact. Avoid camping near water sources and fragile vegetation. Campfires are often restricted, especially during dry periods, so be sure to check current fire bans and consider using a portable stove for cooking. Proper disposal of human waste is also critical; use designated facilities if available, or pack out solid waste using approved methods.
Some reviews mention renovations happening in camping areas, so it's always a good idea to check with local authorities for the most up-to-date information on camping regulations and availability before your trip. Being a responsible camper ensures that places like Redington Pass remain accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Hiking and Waterfalls
Beyond the main trail to Chiva Falls, there are upper trails that lead behind the waterfall, offering a unique perspective and a chance for more adventurous exploration. These trails can be steeper and less maintained, so caution is advised. The surrounding desert landscape provides a beautiful backdrop for any hike, with saguaro cacti and unique rock formations dotting the scenery.
It's important to note that the flow of Chiva Falls can vary significantly depending on the season and rainfall. After monsoon rains, the falls are often at their most impressive, creating a spectacular sight. Always carry plenty of water, wear sun protection, and be aware of the desert heat, especially during warmer months.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit