Summer Desert Safety Tips for University of Arizona and Pima Community College Students

June 8, 2025

Welcome to Tucson—where the sunsets are stunning, the saguaros stand tall, and the summer sun does not mess around.

Whether you’re a returning Wildcat or Aztec or just received your acceptance letter for Fall 2025 (congrats!), it’s time to talk about how to stay safe and smart in the desert heat.

Mountain views and cacti in the Tucson Arizona desert.

Hydration = Survival

Let’s be real: Arizona heat is intense. With triple-digit temps being the norm, dehydration can sneak up on you fast.

  • Always bring more water than you think you’ll need.

  • Plan for at least one liter of water per hour during outdoor activity.

  • Electrolyte drinks or hydration tablets can be a big help.

  • Skip the alcohol or caffeine before hikes—they’ll dehydrate you even faster.

Pro tip: Freeze your water bottle the night before so it stays cold longer while you're out.

Avoid the Heat of the Day

Yes, the desert is beautiful—but timing matters.

Avoid hiking or any intense activity between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun is at its strongest. Instead, try early morning or evening hikes, like:

Female hiker in the Arizona desert wearing a hat, loose-fitting clothing that covers skin, and sneakers.

Dress for the Desert

Not all outfits are hike-approved. Make sure you’re wearing:

  • A wide-brimmed hat

  • UV-blocking sunglasses

  • SPF 30+ sunscreen (reapply every two hours!)

  • Light-colored, loose-fitting clothing that covers your skin

  • Closed-toe shoes with good grip

Bonus points if your look is sun-safe and Insta-ready.

A snake slithering on the ground of the Arizona desert.


Watch for Wildlife

The Sonoran Desert is full of amazing creatures—just remember to respect their space.

  • Don’t reach into shaded areas, bushes, or holes.

  • If you see a rattlesnake, stay calm and slowly back away.

  • Keep at least one earbud out so you can hear your surroundings, including any warning sounds.

Stay Connected

Before heading out, make sure you’ve got a plan:

  • Let someone know where you're going and when you expect to return.

  • Keep your phone fully charged.

  • Use apps like AllTrails or check out the Recreate Responsibly Arizona map.

  • Some trails have spotty service, so screenshot your directions in advance.

Cool Off at The Seasons

You don’t have to leave the property to have a good time. When the heat's too much, take a refreshing dip or chill out indoors:

Two female residents cooling off at the Seasons resort style pool.

Stay safe, stay hydrated, and soak up the best parts of Tucson this summer. Here's to a fun, sun-smart season in the desert! 🌵


About The Seasons Apartments: The Seasons Apartments offer affordable, luxury living spaces designed specifically for students. With top-notch amenities and a prime location near the University of Arizona and Pima Community College, it’s the perfect place to call home during your college years.


Stay connected with us on Instagram and Facebook for more tips and updates.


#WildcatLiving #AztecLiving #BackToSchool #TheSeasonsTucson


Two female residents smiling and clinking their glasses in their fully furnished living room at The Seasons.
By Alexandra Jobe October 28, 2025
Make Thanksgiving memorable with Friendsgiving ideas, local events, and festive activities to enjoy in Tucson this holiday season.
A gratitude journal, pen, and mug of coffee to help students refocus before finals.
By Alexandra Jobe October 26, 2025
Explore Tucson in November 2025 with fun fall events, UA & Pima campus happenings, and cozy ideas for The Seasons Student Living.
Residents can rent out the on-site movie theater.
By Alexandra Jobe October 25, 2025
Find the best Halloween movies to stream this season at The Seasons Tucson—fun, scary, and classic picks for every student!
Group of female residents enjoying the hot tub and pool at The Seasons.
By Alexandra Jobe October 23, 2025
Join The Seasons Apartments in Tucson for an exclusive, poolside Greek Life Open House with food, music, and tours.
Female residents hanging in the Halloween decorated Clubhouse at the Seasons.
By Alexandra Jobe October 9, 2025
Discover the best Halloween 2025 events in Tucson for U of A and Pima students—parties, film fests, and fun at The Seasons Apartments.
Outdoor Oktoberfest setup with wooden tables, a big banner, and triangle banners.
By Alexandra Jobe September 25, 2025
Discover fun fall events in Tucson this October! UA & Pima student activities, plus The Seasons’ amenities to enjoy.
A living room set up for movie night with a projector, blanket, and popcorn.
By Alexandra Jobe September 23, 2025
Host game nights & movie marathons in style —your ultimate guide to fun, clean, and roommate-friendly student living.
Three pumpkins on a bed of fall leaves. The middle pumpkin has been carved into a Jack-o-Lantern.
By Alexandra Jobe September 13, 2025
Get into the spooky spirit with a budget-friendly pumpkin carving guide and join The Seasons' pumpkin carving contest!
Resident showing their furnished bedroom at The Seasons.
By Alexandra Jobe September 10, 2025
Discover budgeting, roommate tips, and campus life advice for first-year students living off-campus in Tucson.
Lanterns floating in the night sky during the lantern festival.
August 28, 2025
Explore September events in Tucson! Fun activities for UA & Pima students, from festivals to campus life plus amenities at The Seasons.