Fortification Hill

Overview

Fortification Hill, also known as Sentinel Peak, is a historic site in Tucson, Arizona, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding desert landscape. It is a popular spot for hiking, photography, and learning about the region's history.

Fortification Hill is significant for its historical role in the early development of Tucson and its strategic vantage point during the 19th century.

Hiking Scenic Viewpoint Historical Monument

Location

Address

Arizona

Neighborhood: Downtown Tucson

Coordinates

32.222600, -110.973700

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

tuesday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

wednesday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

thursday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

friday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

saturday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

sunday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Admission

Adults

Free

Children

Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

October-May

Best Time of Day

Early morning

cooler temperatures and fewer crowds

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

warm and pleasant

• wildflowers
• clear skies

summer

extremely hot

• summer concerts

autumn

perfect

• clear skies
• cool breezes

winter

cool and pleasant

• holiday lights
• festive decorations

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Wear sturdy shoes
Bring water
Check weather forecast

What to Bring

essential

water sunscreen hiking shoes

seasonal

jacket umbrella

not allowed

drones pets

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• hydration
• sun protection

Medical facilities: first aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $0

parking $5

food $10

souvenirs $15

Dress Code

casual, comfortable hiking clothing, hiking shoes, inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• 1 week
• official website
• 48 hours
• available

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Sentinel Peak App

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Audio guide, Events

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center

Charging Stations: Rest areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Tucson International Airport

Distance: 10 km

Travel Time: 15 minutes

taxi

$25 15 min

public_transport

$2 30 min

From City Center

Distance: 2 km

walking

25 min

bus

$2 10 min

taxi

$10 5 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Historical importance and great views

Historical Significance: Used by Native Americans and later by U.S. military

Insider Tips

Free entry
Best views at sunset

Local Recommendations

• Try local coffee
• Ask for guide Sarah

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is ¿Dónde está?

how_much ¿Cuánto cuesta?

beautiful Hermoso

ticket Boletos

Guide Languages: English, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main viewpoint

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide angle

Result: Panoramic city views

#tucson #arizona #hiking

Photography Rules

allowed areas all outdoor areas

prohibited areas restricted zones

flash photography allowed

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited without permit

tripod policy allowed

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Arizona State Museum

Distance: 1km

Walking: 15 min

Type: Museum

Reid Park

Distance: 2km

Walking: 25 min

Type: Park

DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun

Distance: 3km

Walking: 40 min

Type: Gallery

Tucson Museum of Art

Distance: 1.5km

Walking: 20 min