STAFF PICK: Nestled in the foothills of the Rincon Mountains is a gem of a hike that, if you are in the mood to haul your haunches at a good clip, won't take you more than an hour and a half, tops. Just drive out to Saguaro National Park East, pay your two bucks per person or four bucks per carload, and park when you come to the Cactus Forest Trail signs. Touch the little Lime Falls sign for luck and then begin. The trail is dirt, so you'll need shoes with some traction as you head directly into the Rincons, passing some of the most beautiful scenery imaginable. This scenery will probably include some cottontails, jackrabbits, a javelina or mule deer, and lots of fat, striped lizards. You'll also see the occasional runner or bicyclist, beautifully muscled. We just love desert wildlife! After about a mile and a half of good hills and valleys, you'll encounter another sign that leads you to Lime Kilns and Lime Falls. The whole trip is just under 4 miles, but thanks to varied terrain and the solitude of swinging along freely, you'll feel a good workout. A nice side effect of this whole business is that thanks perhaps to the adrenaline rush, everyone you encounter for the 30 minutes after the hike will appear beautiful and fascinating. Talk about two bucks well spent!
