New segment of The Loop trail system follows flowing Santa Cruz River

A new segment of The Loop trail system will serve up an unusual scenic gem in this arid desert region: a verdant, tree-lined stretch of the Santa Cruz River that has water flowing through it year-round.

The mile-long segment, on the east bank of the river south of Sunset Road, features flowing water thanks to a nearby water-treatment facility, said Andy Dinauer, division manager with the Pima County Regional Flood Control District. The county oversees The Loop, with more than 100 miles of trails for nonmotorized use around the Tucson valley.

Dinauer said the new segment will be open “informally” beginning Saturday, April 29. But he noted that some barricades will be in place “and users should exercise caution as construction may stretch into early May.”

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