Experience the unique beauty that Oro Valley has to offer, from its remarkable Old West history to the majestic Pusch Ridge and Cañada del Oro Wash to the many outdoor activities that abound. Whether savoring afternoon patio drinks or exploring Catalina State Park or Steam Pump Ranch, Oro Valley has something to delight every visitor.
Physical Activities
Oro Valley is a beautiful Sonoran Desert community, surrounded by majestic Pusch Ridge and the lush Cañada del Oro Wash. This town offers its residents and visitors an abundance of physical activities such as hiking, golfing, and cycling, while also providing plenty of outdoor leisure options like patio drinks and dining. Oro Valley has something to offer everyone, including a renowned resort, shopping plazas, Old West history, and a variety of entertainment and community events throughout the year, making it the perfect family-friendly destination.
History of Oro Valley
Oro Valley, whose name translates to “gold” in Spanish, has a rich history of settlement and development that began when prospectors sought out rumored gold deposits in the second half of the 19th century. It was George Pusch, a German immigrant, who established his cattle ranch in 1874, relying on a steam pump for water supply. Today, the 16-acre Steam Pump Ranch stands proudly as a National Register of Historic Places site, offering a unique view into the Arizona Territory before statehood. Every Saturday, visitors can explore the ranch at the nearby farmers market or during the free Second Saturday events, which include tours, historic and cultural presentations, a concert series, and activities for children.
Activities at Catalina State Park
• Bird Watching
• Horseback Riding
• Camping
• Hiking
• Guided Bird Walks
• Hiking Tours
• Nature Programs
Catalina State Park, located in the foothills of Pusch Ridge on the western edge of the Santa Catalina Mountains, boasts 5,500 acres of stunning canyons, streams, and trails. With its exceptional desert landscape, Catalina State Park is home to an abundance of flora and fauna including saguaros, mesquite, and palo verde trees. Visitors to the park can take part in a variety of activities such as bird watching, horseback riding, camping, and hiking. Moreover, guided bird walks, hiking tours, and nature programs are also available for those seeking an immersive outdoor experience.
A Unique for Fitness Lovers and Golf Lovers
Oro Valley Community & Recreation Center has become a year-round fitness destination, offering a variety of activities and classes. In addition, Cañada del Oro Riverfront Park features expansive sports fields, running trails, ramadas with grills for parties and picnics, and horseshoe pits. The town of Oro Valley is also highly bicycle-friendly, having 80 miles of bicycle paths already in place, and more being planned. For those looking to venture out on two wheels, the vehicle-free CDO Trail along the banks of the wash offers a peaceful ride through nature, while Oracle Road provides an exhilarating road cycling adventure with 10 miles to the town of Catalina.
For golfers, El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort is the ultimate destination. The acclaimed 18-hole course offers breathtaking views of the Santa Catalina mountain range and the picturesque Sonoran Desert. With a variety of other outdoor activities such as tennis and horseback riding also available on-site, it’s no surprise that El Conquistador has become one of the top-rated resort destinations in all of Southern Arizona. Best of all, take in an awe-inspiring sunset at the resort’s pool for a truly memorable experience.
Oro Valley’s abundance of physical activities, outdoor leisure options, and entertainment make it an ideal destination for families wanting to explore the beauty of the Arizona desert. From the historic Steam Pump Ranch to Catalina State Park and the lush Cañada del Oro Wash, visitors are sure to be treated to an unforgettable experience that will last a lifetime. With so many activities against the backdrop of inspiring geological formations, Oro Valley is truly a treasure with something to offer everyone.
