The United States Congress designated the Baboquivari Peak Wilderness in 1990 and it now has a total of 2,040 acres. All of the wilderness is in Arizona and is managed by the Bureau of Land Management.
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 Papago Indian Reservation; visitors must buy a permit to enter the reservation. 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. Elevations range from 7,730 feet on the summit to 4,500 feet on the desert floor. Vegetation in the higher country includes oak, walnut, and pi?on; saguaro, paloverde, and chaparral grace the lower elevations.
You can hike along animal tracks that human feet have pounded into informal trails. The Nature Conservancy maintains a public-access route to the edge of the Wilderness from Humphrey Ranch in Thomas Canyon. The hiking is strenuous, but your rewards are solitude and splendid vistas. Always carry plenty of water.
The wilderness includes a small, but spectacular portion of the east side of the Baboquivari Range. The sharp rise of Baboquivari Peak dominates the wilderness area. Elevations range from 4,500 feet to 7,730 feet. Vegetation varies from saguaro, paloverde and chaparral communities to oak, walnut and pinyon at the higher elevations.
Recreation opportunities such as photography, sightseeing, and day hikes are enhanced by the dramatic and scenic landscapes. Baboquivari Peak is the only major peak in Arizona that requires technical climbing ability to reach its summit.
Directions
From Tucson, travel west on Highway 86 to its junction with Highway 286 to Sasabe. Proceed south along Highway 286 about 30 miles to the entrance road to Thomas Canyon. The Nature Conservancy maintains a pedestrian access route to the wilderness from the Humphrey Ranch in Thomas Canyon.
Some lands around and within the wilderness are not federally administered. Please respect the property rights of the owners and do not cross or use these lands without their permission.
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