Tanque Verde: Where History and Nature Collide in a Suburban Symphony

If you are looking for a place to live in Tucson, Arizona, you might want to consider the Tanque Verde area. Tanque Verde is a suburban community with a rich history and a stunning natural scenery. In this blog post, we will explore some of the historical and natural features of Tanque Verde that make it a unique and desirable location.

Tanque Verde, which means “green tank” or “green pool” in Spanish, was named after the algae that grew in a large and prominent stock water tank in the area in the late 19th century. The area was first settled by ranchers arriving to the American West around the 1860s, who faced challenges from Apache raids and bandit attacks. One of the earliest ranchers was Don Emilio Carrillo, who built the original corral and ranch house from adobe mud. Some of these structures still stand today as part of the Tanque Verde Ranch, one of America’s oldest and most famous dude ranches.

The Tanque Verde Ranch has been hosting guests since 1928, when it was bought by Jim Converse, a Texan who loved hunting and entertaining. The ranch offers a variety of activities, such as horseback riding, mountain biking, fishing, hiking, and spa services. The ranch also has a spectacular view of the Rincon Mountains and the Saguaro National Park, which are adjacent to the property. The Saguaro National Park is home to the iconic saguaro cactus, as well as other desert plants and wildlife. The park has over 150 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

Another natural attraction in Tanque Verde is the Tanque Verde Falls, a series of waterfalls and pools along the Tanque Verde Creek. The falls are accessible by a moderate hike from the Lower Tanque Verde Falls Trailhead. The falls are especially popular in the summer, when visitors can cool off in the refreshing water. However, caution is advised, as flash floods can occur during monsoon season.

Tanque Verde is not only a place of natural beauty, but also a place of cultural diversity and heritage. The area has been influenced by Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo-American cultures over the years. Some of the Hispanic families who settled in Tanque Verde in the late 19th and early 20th centuries still live there today. The Tanque Verde School District, established in 1886, is one of the oldest and most respected in Arizona. The district has four elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school, serving over 3,000 students.

Tanque Verde is a community that combines the best of both worlds: the charm and tranquility of rural living with the convenience and amenities of urban living. With its history, nature, and culture, Tanque Verde is a place that offers something for everyone.