Ez-Kim-In-Zin Picnic Area

Overview

Tucked along the dirt Bajada Loop Drive in the park’s West (Red Hills/Tucson Mountain) District, Ez‑Kim‑In‑Zin is a photogenic, low‑key picnic stop that feels pleasantly remote. You’re here for the classic desert views, the handsome 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps stone shelter, and easy access to nearby trails.

Why go

If you want a quiet lunch spot with real shade and a sense of history, this is your place. The shelter is built right into the rock outcrop—beautiful workmanship—and the views sweep across saguaro‑studded hills toward Wasson and Amole peaks. It’s also a smart staging point to hit the trail without backtracking.

Amenities at a glance

• Shaded and unshaded picnic tables (including small, intimate two‑person tables)
• Stone shade shelter (CCC era)
• Vault (waterless) restrooms
• Grills, trash and recycling
• Parking for cars, RVs, and buses
• Trailhead access and photo‑worthy viewpoints

Trails from here

Encinas (often listed as “Encinas Trail from Ez‑Kim‑In‑Zin”) starts at the picnic area: about 7.3 miles out‑and‑back, moderate, with some wash sections and a bit of uphill on the return. Expect classic saguaro forest, frequent desert critter sightings, and, in late spring, blooming cacti. No dogs on this trail. The nearby Sendero Esperanza Trailhead is just down the road if you want to mix and match routes.

Best time to visit

Early morning is prime—for cooler temperatures, soft light on the saguaros, and a good chance of having it mostly to yourself. Late afternoon can be lovely for photography as well. Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends. Late spring brings saguaro blooms; bring a zoom if you’re hoping to spot a crested giant along the trail.

Getting there & road notes

It sits on the unpaved Bajada Loop Drive. The loop is generally suitable for standard cars, but expect a graded dirt road with a few rougher stretches and one‑way segments—plan your direction before you commit. This is the most remote picnic area in the west district; don’t count on cell service.

Wildlife & blooms

Keep an eye out for small desert wildlife along the Encinas route and, in season, flowering saguaros. The broad views from the picnic area make it easy to scan the landscape without leaving your table.

Good to know

There’s no potable water here—arrive stocked. A park entry fee or pass is required to access the loop. Shade is limited to the shelter and a couple covered tables; most hiking is fully exposed.