Trails and sales

At the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains, Tucson's Foothills neighborhood is known for its miles of scenic desert hiking trails.

Now with newly opened shops and a burgeoning restaurant scene, the locale has evolved into the city's shopping and dining epicenter. Take note of what the locals are wearing: More often than not, accessories of choice aren't Manolo mules or Birkin bags. Instead, shoppers and diners are likely to sport dusty hiking boots and well-worn backpacks.

HIKE:

Ventana Trail. WHAT: A spectacular canyon wash, and as reward for not turning back early, Maiden Pools may be deep enough for dunking. The trail is 6.7 miles one way; part of it enters Coronado National Forest. WHEN: Sunrise to sunset daily. HOW MUCH: Free. WHERE: Trailhead is at far end of the employee parking lot of Loews Ventana Canyon Resort, 7000 N. Resort Dr.; Santa Catalina Ranger District, 520/749-8700.