Photos: Lush Sabino Canyon in 1981
A look back at Sabino Canyon National Recreation Area in September 1981, shortly before it was permanently closed to motor vehicles past the visitor's center. A shuttle bus service eased the pain of walking.
The discussion in 1981, as it is today, was about the balance of preserving the beauty for all and access for recreation.
Sabino Canyon in 1981
Sabino Canyon National Recreation Area north of Tucson in September, 1981.
Sabino Canyon in 1981
People jump into Sabino Creek at the Sabino Canyon National Recreation Area north of Tucson in September, 1981.
Sabino Canyon in 1981
A couple makes the long trek into Sabino Canyon National Recreation Area north of Tucson in September, 1981.
Sabino Canyon in 1981
People play volleyball in the "lake" behind the dam on Sabino Creek at Sabino Canyon National Recreation Area north of Tucson in September, 1981.
Sabino Canyon in 1981
Sabino Canyon National Recreation Area north of Tucson in September, 1981.
Sabino Canyon in 1981
Sabino Canyon National Recreation Area north of Tucson in September, 1981.
Sabino Canyon in 1981
A tram loaded with passengers crosses Sabino Creek in Sabino Canyon National Recreation Area north of Tucson in September, 1981.
Sabino Canyon in 1981
Sabino Canyon National Recreation Area north of Tucson in September, 1981.
Sabino Canyon in 1981
U.S. Forest Service rangers asked people to obey fire restrictions at Sabino Canyon National Recreation Area north of Tucson in September, 1981.
Rick Wiley
Photo editor
About five miles of roads within Sabino Canyon Recreation Area will be improved and repaved beginning Monday, Feb. 21
If you're looking to run, jog or just take a nature walk, here are some spots where you can enjoy desert views while getting your steps in.
Heavy rainfall in Tucson on Tuesday morning caused flooding in Sabino Canyon, leading to temporary closures in the area.
The lake in Sabino Canyon was deepened and stocked with trout in 1951 for hungry fishermen.
Tucson is looking pretty green! Check out the views from Sabino Canyon following this summer's above-average rainfall.
A home on Hidden Valley Road near Sabino Canyon north of Tucson sold for $1 million over the asking price.