Hiking Trails
For the serious hiker, hiking trails of all levels abound in the southern border ranges that surround these towns. Be sure to check out Atascosa Trail for the vistas. Bog Springs Trail is a great shorter hike for those wanting to observe the birds and animals attracted by the nearby springs. The Coronado National Forest, encompassing much of the area just north of Nogales, abounds with trails. Also check out the recreational areas listed below - most have a variety of shorter hiking trails with special interest features.

Biking Trails
The Southern Arizona Biking Association provides a list of tested mountain bike trails in the area and also provides a PDF of the Topo map for the trail. Many of the recreational areas also have some bike trails.

Outfitters
Couldn't bring your bike? Not ready to go it alone in the more remote areas? An outfitter might be the perfect solution. Southwest Trekking offers Hiking, mountain biking, camping, trail running, rock climbing and more in remote areas of the Southern Arizona and Mexico. Try Patagonia Cyclery for bike tours in the Sonoita area as well as bike rentals. Email them at Patagoniacyclery@theriver.com.

Equestrian lovers should try the Coronado Outfitters. You can supply your own horse or rent one of theirs. Arizona Horseback Experience offers a variety of trailrides of differing lengths. They even feature a wine-tasting trail ride!

Recreational areas
This region has a large number of recreational areas. Patagonia State Park, just east of I-19 between Tubac and Nogales offers hiking, fishing, boating, and water skiing. Arivaca Lake, west of I-19 and a bit north of Nogales, is a long drive. However it is one of the more scenic drives in the area. If you are looking for a place to fish, stroll by the lake and watch the birds without any crowds, this is the place for you. be aware that it is a primitive facility offering only toilets and a primitive boat ramp. Pena Blanca lake is the bass fishers destination! Just west of I-19 and 5 miles north of Nogales,the lake offers picnic areas, toilets, boat ramp and a floating fishing dock. If your interested in caves, check out Kartchner Caverns State Park . You'll need to make advance reservations, however.

Ghost Towns
At one time the main draw for people to the area was mining. As the mines shut down many of these communities were either abandoned or suffered a significant decrease in population. Most ghost towns have fallen to ruins, although a few have used their ghost town status to create historical or fun attractions for visitors. The city of Tombstone is a dedicated to recreating the old west town atmosphere. They have events scheduled throughout the year.

Religious Sites
San Xavier del Bac, 13 miles north of Sahuarita, is a mission that is still in service today. Commonly known as the White Dove of the Desert, it's white facade against the blue skys and desert sands make a striking image. As a church, it primarily serves the Tohono O'odham nation, but is open to all who wish to attend services. Tumacaori National Historical park house the ruins of three Spanish colonial missions originally founded by Father Kino and the Jesuits. There is a visitors center and museum, walking tours, and on the weekends demonstrations of traditional crafts by local artisans. Our Lady of the Sierras shrine includes a 75-foot Celtic cross, 31-foot statue of the Madonna, and a small chapel. All faiths welcome.

Wine tasting
Come taste the wines of the areas vineyards! Many are nestled around the Sonoita/Elgin area and more are being developed. Check the websites for wine tasting and special events at Charron Winery, Sonoita Vineyards, Callaghan Vineyards, Collabri Vineyard and Doz Cabezas Wineworks.

Shopping
Tubac was original started as a military Garrison in the 1700's. It has since become a haven for fine artistisans with a plethora of shops and galleries to satisfy your shopping gene. Bisbee is another must stop for shoppers in the area. Expect to find the beautiful Bisbee Blue Turqoise as a featured item! Make sure you travel to Nogales for that trip across the bridge into Nogales, Mexico! Just over the bridge is the huge outdoor shopping area where the locals set up their booths. Beyond that the permanent shops line the streets.

Golfing
Did you bring your golf clubs? We have a number of premier golf courses in the area. Try Rio Rico Resort and Country Club, Tubac Golf Resort, Palo Duro Creek Country Club, and Kino Springs.