Seven Falls via Bear Canyon Trail FS #29

based on 122 tracks & routes #2 hike out of 386 in
8.3 mi
Distance
4 hrs 35 min
Time
terrain
751 ft
Elev Gain

Overview

This is a moderate out-and-back trail to Seven Falls, a breathtaking series of cascading waterfalls spilling into natural pools.

The trail meanders through classic Sonoran Desert scenery, with towering saguaro cacti, rugged canyon walls, and expansive views. Cross rocky Bear Canyon Creek multiple times. Water levels vary depending on the season. Relax at the pools or take a dip before returning to the trailhead.

Spring and fall are ideal due to milder temperatures. Start early to avoid the heat and crowds. Bring plenty of water. Check weather conditions, especially during monsoon season (July–September), as flash floods can make the creek crossings dangerous.

Getting Started

Park at the Sabino Canyon Recreation Area Visitor Center. Be sure to have a parking pass or pay the daily fee (usually $8 as of recent years).

Follow signs to the Bear Canyon Trail from the Visitor Center or take the tram (for a fee) to shorten the hike. The tram drops you off 2 miles closer to the trailhead. Note: advanced reservations may be needed for the tram.

Taking Children

A tough hike for young children as the trail is rocky and exposed. Wet creek crossings may be necessary.


Sights to See


    Rate this Hike

    user_profile stars
    1 year, 6 months ago
    Hiked late 11/24. Took to the shuttle for a shorter hike. Not water crossings. Very little water flowed in the creek and while there was water in the pools, no waterfalls.
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    user_profile
    2 years, 3 months ago
    Gorgeous hike. Busy even during the week. 7 water crossings on stones one way. Can swim near falls if you want. Saw Gila monster.
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    user_profile
    3 years, 3 months ago
    Great hike through a beautiful canyon to a spectacular series of waterfalls in the desert. The shuttle from the visitor center cuts off several miles round trip. 14 total water crossings round trip. Knee high today. Water shoes highly advisable. Moderate crowd.
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    user_profile
    4 years, 9 months ago
    Very hot but so worth it. Highly recommend the $6 shuttle. Bypassed walking up the road and it drops you off at trailhead. If you are lucky you can catch it down as well. Went on a Monday and it was not crowded at all.
    ★ ★ ★ ★

    user_profile
    5 years, 3 months ago
    It was going to be a warm day- 83- so I set out at 7- I was hiking alone- so I enjoyed having the company of others at about every 30 feet or so- I did get lost a few times when you had to cross the River- but luckily enough ultra runners would pass by to self correct me. Great day hike-
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    user_profile
    6 years, 5 months ago
    Nice path with several river crossings into the canyon. Sit and picnic at Seven Falls in the sunshine.
    ★ ★ ★ ★

    user_profile
    4 months, 2 weeks ago
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    user_profile
    1 year, 10 months ago
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    user_profile
    3 years, 3 months ago

    user_profile
    3 years, 5 months ago

    user_profile
    3 years, 9 months ago
    ★ ★

    user_profile
    4 years, 7 months ago

    user_profile
    6 years, 8 months ago


Public Tracks

user_profile
Life UnEncumbered 6 months ago
Seven Falls via Bear Canyon Trail
12/28/2025: Easy for the first 2/3rds then moderate for the last mile or so as you ascend. Great views, nicely maintained trails, water hole under the falls for swimming. Popular trail, ie. busy on the weekend. Missed 0.7 miles of the track from the asphalt going back to the Visitor Center. In total, we logged about 8.25 miles since we turned around at the overlook opposite the falls without hiking down (too crowded).
user_profile
David Binkley 4 months, 3 weeks ago
Pusch Ridge Wilderness Hike
https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/21807173689
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Michael Gallipeo 6 months ago
Pusch Ridge Wilderness Trail Run
https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/21444695733
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Sheridan Jaussi 1 year, 1 month ago
Pusch Ridge Wilderness Hike
https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/19085491919
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Russell Lowes 1 year, 6 months ago
Cata 7 Falls
Moore Road on the way up, more Trail on the way back.
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