Despite having no coastline, Arizona has a surprising amount of natural swimming spots to enjoy amidst the unrelenting summer heat. Romero Pools, located within Catalina State Park in Tucson, is one such place. These pristine grottos are the grand finale to a sweaty hiking trail, invigorating the spirits of exhausted hikers.
Please note, this trail is temporarily closed.
Accessing the pools starts with a 5.5-mile hike at Catalina State Park in Tucson. The journey is almost as beautiful as the destination, with eye-popping wildflowers lining the trail.
AllTrails/Randy M.
Enjoy a relaxing stroll for the first mile, as the terrain is relatively flat. The final stretch is a steep and rocky climb – but with views like this, you’ll hardly find anything to complain about.
AllTrails/Stephanie Barulic
Upon finally reaching the pools, you’ll be more than ready to jump in. The water is typically cool, which refreshes the spirit after a hot and sweaty hike.
AllTrails/Jeremy Miller
Having formed along a stream bed, the Romero Pools flow seasonally. Depending on recent rainfall, you might even see a waterfall trickling peacefully into the reservoir below.
AllTrails/Jonathan Kearns
If the pools are crowded, which is common during the warmer months, just keep hiking past them. After crossing the stream, you’ll come upon a few more swimming holes unbeknownst to most hikers.
AllTrails/Gregg Blohm
Try planning your visit after a decent rainfall, if possible! This helps ensure the water level won’t be too low for swimming. Plus, moisture facilitates the growth of lush vegetation, turning the landscape into a tropical oasis.
AllTrails/Matthew Timmons
A $7 entrance fee is required to enter Catalina State Park. Dogs aren’t allowed on the Romero Canyon Trail, however you can go horseback riding as an alternative to hiking.
AllTrails/Matthew Timmons
Visit the AllTrails page to learn more.
AllTrails/Randy M.
AllTrails/Stephanie Barulic
AllTrails/Jeremy Miller
AllTrails/Jonathan Kearns
AllTrails/Gregg Blohm
AllTrails/Matthew Timmons
Have you ever been to Romero Pools? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience! Check out our previous article for more opportunities to make a splash this summer: Here Are 6 Arizona Swimming Holes That Will Make Your Summer Epic.
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Address: Catalina State Park, 11570 N Oracle Rd, Tucson, AZ 85737, USA
