Which hotel?

Question

I'm in the initial stages of a possible trip to Tucson in late March. It would be my husband and me, plus our 15 year old daughter. I've been told that Tucson would be a better bet than Sedona, which I'm hearing will be jam-packed. Anyway, I've done some initial research, and I'm looking for a place that is close to hiking trails and state/national parks. We're definitely interested in hiking/scenery, maybe biking, horseback riding, etc. Basically, I'd like to find a place where we can really enjoy the mountains and the desert scenery, which is beautiful and so different from where we live in the Midwest. Which place would be best? And yes, we'd be renting a car.

JW Marriott

Westin La Paloma

Omni National

Loews Ventana Canyon

Is there somewhere else I'm missing? The Ritz is a bit too pricey...

Answer

Tucson is a fantastic choice for a spring trip if you enjoy hiking, biking, and experiencing desert and mountain scenery. Late March is ideal as the weather is generally warm and pleasant without the intense summer heat. Since you will have a car, you can easily access hiking trails and nearby parks from most resorts.

Here’s a breakdown of your options and some additional suggestions:

JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass – Located near the Tucson Mountains, this resort has direct access to several trails and a golf course. It's more remote than the city, giving you desert scenery right outside your door. The resort offers family-friendly amenities, but some trails may require a short drive to reach more interesting hiking areas.
Westin La Paloma – Nestled at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains, this resort offers stunning views, hiking access, and a variety of family-friendly amenities. It’s close to Sabino Canyon, a popular hiking and nature area, and has pools, tennis, and other recreational options for your daughter.
Omni Tucson National Resort – Located near the Rincon Mountains, this resort is more focused on golf and upscale amenities. Hiking options nearby are available but may require a drive. It’s quieter and more secluded.
Loews Ventana Canyon – Situated at the base of the Catalina Mountains, Loews has excellent hiking access right from the property, and is close to Sabino Canyon and other trailheads. Family-friendly with pools and a variety of on-site activities. Rooms are spacious and offer great mountain views.

Other options to consider:

Tanque Verde Guest Ranch – A working guest ranch offering horseback riding, hiking, and western-style family experiences. Perfect if you want something different from a hotel resort.
Sky Ranch Lodge / Catalina Foothills – Smaller boutique-style options with easy access to trails and outdoor activities, often at a lower price point than the big resorts.
Airbnb or vacation rentals in Catalina Foothills – Many homes in this area offer access to trails, great views, and privacy. Can be more cost-effective and flexible for families.

Recommendation: If your priority is hiking and easy access to trails with family-friendly amenities, the Westin La Paloma or Loews Ventana Canyon are the most convenient and scenic options. The JW Marriott is also good, but slightly farther from key trailheads. If you want a unique experience, consider Tanque Verde Guest Ranch for horseback riding and desert immersion.

With a car, all of these options will allow you to explore Saguaro National Park, Sabino Canyon, and other local hiking areas easily, making Tucson an excellent base for a spring adventure.