Saguaro National Park
Saguaro National Park
The park is located near Tucson, AZ in south east Arizona
Saguaro National Park is a “must-see” stop-off while in Arizona. Not only does it have the most recognized cactus in the world, you can enjoy the varied wildlife that accompanies the Saguaro. The park also gives opportunities for hiking and backpacking, mountain biking, photography and scenic drives. Continue reading for more great Saguaro National Park information.
Uniqueness
Saguaro National Park is a unique desert that is home to the most recognizable cactus in the world, the majestic saguaro. Visitors of all ages are fascinated and enchanted by these desert giants, especially their many interesting and complex interrelationships with other desert life. Saguaro cacti provide their sweet fruits to hungry desert animals. They also provide homes to a variety of birds, such as the Harris’ hawk, Gila woodpecker and the tiny elf owl. Yet, the saguaro requires other desert plants for its very survival. During the first few years of a very long life, a young saguaro needs the shade and protection of a nurse plant such as the palo verde tree. With an average life span of 150 years, a mature saguaro may grow to a height of 50 feet and weigh over 10 tons.
While most visitors to Saguaro National Park choose a leisurely drive on one of the scenic loop drives, those eager for an escape from the rigors of city life often opt to explore the park on one of the many trails. With over 150 miles of hiking trails, ranging from flat and easy strolls in the Sonoran Desert to steep and rugged hikes into the Rincon Mountains, visitors of all abilities have a place to get out of the car and explore.
Saguaro National Park offers both self guided Junior Ranger programs and summer Junior Ranger Camps for kids. Numerous guided walks are offered at each visitor center. Start a park visit by stopping at the visitor center for maps, information, and suggestions. Most visitors enjoy the scenic drives, bird watching, photography, hiking, and participating in guided walks. Saguaro National Park’s visitor season is from approximately November through April. During these months both districts of the park offer naturalist-led activities on most days. Patio talks and cactus garden walks are offered near the visitor centers, most of these are wheel-chair accessible. Longer guided hikes and special activities such as bird and wildflower walks are offered frequently during the season. Special moonlight hikes and full-moon talks are also offered, many of these require reservations. Call the visitor centers for specific information: Rincon Mountain District (Eastside) (520) 733-5153, Tucson Mountain District (Westside) (520) 733-5158.
The park was named a national monument in 1933 and changed to a national park in 1994. It encompasses over 90,000 acres and entertains some 660,000 visitors a year. The park is divided into east and west districts. Both districts of the park are open daily from 7:00 am to sunset. Rincon Mountain District Visitor Center is open all year 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. It is closed Christmas. The visitor center is located 15 miles (24 km) east of downtown Tucson, Arizona. There are exhibits that focus on the natural and cultural history of the Sonoran Desert. “A Home in the Desert”, a fifteen-minute orientation program to Saguaro National Park, is shown throughout the day.
Tucson Mountain District Visitor Center is also open all year 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, but closed Christmas. It is located 15 miles (24 km) west of downtown Tucson, Arizona. They offer the same things as the Rincon Mountain District, except, they show “Voices of the Desert”, a fifteen-minute program exploring the Native American perspective of the Sonoran Desert, (captioned) throughout the day.
The Saguaro Wilderness Area was officially designated as wilderness in 1976. This large, roadless backcountry consists of 57,930 acres within the Rincon Mountain District of Saguaro National Park. It is bound on three sides by the 38,590 acre Rincon Mountain Wilderness Area, which lies within the Coronado National Forest. There are five trailheads into the Saguaro Wilderness Area; Douglas Spring at 2,750 feet, Tanque Verde Ridge at 3,100 feet, Miller Creek at 4,200 feet, Turkey Creek at 4,250 feet and Italian Spring at 4,800 feet elevation. Three of these are accessed within the Coronado National Forest-Miller Creek, Turkey Creek and Italian Spring. The two easiest to access, due to paved roads, are Tanque Verde Ridge and Douglas Spring.
There are three easy trails along the Cactus Forest Drive. The Desert Ecology Trail is a ¼ mile round trip on a paved trail. It is wheelchair accessible and allows an easy stroll through the desert beside Javelina Wash. There are signs along the way that introduce you to plants and animals that call the Sonoran Desert their home. The Freeman Homestead Trail is a 1 mile round trip. This path leads to an old homestead site and a grove of saguaros, including a thirty-armed giant. There are interpretive signs along the way and special exploration activities for kids. The Cactus Forest Trail is 2.5 miles one way inside loop drive. This is an easy walk on a multiuse trail. Bicycles and horses are allowed on this trail. Take a walk and see the lime kiln historic site.
There are lengthier and sometimes strenuous hikes off of Mica View Loop, Loma Verde Loop, Freight Wagon Loop and Garwood Loop. These take anywhere from one to four hours to hike with distance ranging form 2 miles to 5.3 miles. You will see panoramic views of the mountains, the marvel of the desert plants, birds that make their nests in the cactus, an historical dam and airstrip and the old cattle grazing areas last used as recently as 1979.
Hundreds of years of human use have left their mark on the Rincon Valley. In the 13 th and 14 th centuries, the people now called Hohokam lived in small villages along the floodplain of Rincon Creek. They harvested saguaro fruit, mesquite beans and other wild foods. They hunted for deer and bighorn sheep in the Rincon Mountains and planted corn, beans and squash in the fertile valley. The Hohokam left many petroglyphs as a mark of their passing. These were designs pecked, incised or abraded onto rock surfaces. Some of the designs were geometric forms, spirals and human and animal forms. After the Hohokam left, Hispanic and Anglo settlers wrestled a living from the high desert plains and saguaro forests too. These were small family farms that soon became large cattle ranches.
The Rincon Valley area offers its own set of trails to hike. In 1991, Congress authorized the purchase of 4,011 acres of expansion along the south boundary of the Rincon Mountain District of the park. Some of these lands are still privately owned and need to be respected as such while in the park. The trailhead is located at the north end of Camino Loma Alta. Three trails are now open. The Hope Camp Trail is 5.6 miles round trip and offers spectacular views of Tanque Verde Ridge and Rincon Peak and passes by two abandoned line camps with windmills. The Ridge View Trail is 1.6 miles round trip and climbs to a turnaround with a scenic view of the rocky side canyons of Tanque Verde Ridge and the Rincon Valley. The last is North Hope Trail which is a .6 mile roundtrip and is a level trail with desert vistas.
Within the Tucson Mountain District lay many trails to hike. There are four short walks and nature trails ranging from a hundred yards to .8 mile. Two of the trails are wheelchair accessible and offer views of native plants and animal life. Of the remaining short walks, the Signal Hill Petroglyphs Trail takes you to dozens of petroglyphs scattered around a rocky hilltop. There are seven desert and mountain hiking trails. They range in 1 mile one-way hikes to 4.9 miles one-way. King Canyon Trail will take you to the top of Wasson Peak, elevation 4,687 feet and the highest point in the Tucson Mountains. The terrain on these trails ranges from fairly level to steep. Some of these are open to equestrians.
Plant communities within the wilderness vary from hot and dry desert scrub to cool and moist pine forest. This biologically diverse area supports a tremendous variety of plant and animal species. The park has flowers in bloom virtually every month of the year with the best blooms occurring in mid to late March. A tremendous variety of cactus means that blooms can be seen from mid-April into September. The cactus flowering season generally runs April through May with the first week in May showing the greatest number of species in bloom.
There are over 200 species of birds that live or migrate through the park. From the roadrunner dashing across a trail, to diminutive verdin gleaning tiny insects from the branch of an acacia, to Harris’ hawks hunting in a family group, birds occupy every niche of the desert scrub habitat. In the mountain areas, you may see the red-faced warbler, the canyon wren, the threatened Mexican spotted owl, or the peregrine falcon. Hit the trails to find your favorite.
Throughout the summer, most animal activity occurs early morning, late evening or at night. The park contains coyotes, javelina, a wild pig-looking animal that is actually a member of the peccary family, desert spiny lizard, black bears, desert tortoise, kangaroo rats, deer, jack rabbits, bobcats and mountain lions. Most of these are seldom seen except for the tracks they leave in passing through the park. There are two species of nectar feeding bats that play a vital role in pollination of saguaro and other cacti.
While the Sonoran Desert does not exhibit a typical “four season” weather pattern, it does follow rhythmic cycles. Rain or lack thereof, marks these changes. During December to February, the gentle rains of winter ready the desert for its busiest time of year. By late February, many annual wildflowers begin to bloom and birds start to nest. The last weeks of March and the first weeks of April are the height of spring activity and flower bloom. Insects swarm around the flowering plants, and birds take advantage of this abundance to raise their young. A winter with adequate rainfall at the proper time may produce spectacular wildflower displays. Flowering tress and cacti are not as sensitive to rainfall and temperature and usually have a good bloom every year.
Fall is a quiet time. Cooler temperatures make for great hiking and camping conditions on the trails found throughout the park. It is also a good time for biking. Biking is allowed along the scenic loop drives. The Cactus Forest Loop Drive in the Rincon Mountain District is (east) is an 8-mile paved loop. The Bajada Loop Drive in the Tucson Mountain District (west) is a 6-mile gravel loop.
Mountain bikes are allowed on a 2.5 mile section of the Cactus Forest Trail, located within the Cactus Forest Loop Drive at the Rincon Mt. District (east). This is the only trail within the park that is open to bikes. This is also open to equestrians and pedestrian traffic. Bicyclists are required to yield to all other trail users, by stopping your bike and moving to the uphill side of the trail until all have passed. You are not allowed in washes or off trail at any time to protect the park.
Winters are very delightful with mild warm days averaging 65 degrees F. (19 degrees C.) and cool nights averaging 40 degrees F. (5 degrees C.). Summers can be extremely hot with daytime temperatures exceeding 105 degrees F. (41 degrees C.) in the shade, and evening lows averaging 72 degrees F. (22 degrees C.). The typical winter rainy season is December through February. Rainfall is generally light and gentle, but may fall for extended periods. Expect snow at higher elevations. Summer rainy season occurs from July through September and can be intense and heavy with lightening and flash flooding common.
Pets are not allowed in the visitor centers at any time. They are allowed on roadways or picnic areas and must be kept on a lease not to exceed 6 feet. Service animals are exempt from this rule. There are several reasons for these rules. There is danger to the dog in the form of cactus spines, bites from rattlesnake’s ands heat stroke. Native wildlife can be impacted by dogs and some people have been bitten on trails even when the dog has been on a leash.
Always wear a hat and use sunscreen while hiking. Drink plenty of water. At least one gallon of water per person, per day is recommended, more for summer. Treat all water collected for human consumption. Remember that water is generally scarce throughout the year.
Everyone using the Saguaro Wilderness Area should have the necessary map reading skills to get safely around. Topographical maps are available at the visitor centers. Pace yourself according to your own physical condition and rest often in hot weather. Wear appropriate clothing for weather and terrain (long-sleeved shirts and long pants). Have good hiking shoes, tent, backpack, compass, sleeping bag, rain gear in season, first-aide kit, binoculars, camp stove, biodegradable soap, food, water, a filter system or water treating tablets, all-purpose tool, knife, and pocket comb.
Encounters with cacti and other prickly plants can be painful. Be especially careful near cholla cactus, which with the slightest touch, can become embedded in the skin. If a cholla cactus segment attaches itself to you, do not grab it. Use two sticks or a pocket comb as a lever to flick it off. It may require tweezers to remove any remaining spines. Always clean the area well with soap and warm water.
Rattlesnakes are commonly seen throughout the year. Stay on trails and keep a safe distance from any snakes you encounter. Do not harass or attempt to kill any snakes. Don’t put your hands or feet where your eyes have not been. Wear boots and loose fitting pants while hiking and carry a flashlight after dark. If you are bitten, call 911 immediately. Do not attempt to treat it yourself. Cell phones work well in most of this area.
Do not enter mine shafts as they may be unstable or contain toxic fumes.
When biking, there are several things to remember. Carry plenty of water, especially in summer. Drinking water is not available long the roads or picnic areas. Water fountains can be found adjacent to both visitor stations along with benches and bike racks. Restrooms are also available at the visitor centers during daylight hours. Pit toilets are at all picnic areas. Carry personal identification and have available the name, address and phone number of an emergency contact. Helmets are required for riders and passengers under 18 years of age. Helmets, gloves and glasses are recommended for all riders. Bicycles must obey all traffic signs, including speed limits and stop signs. Always maintain a safe speed for the road conditions and your own riding experience or the least experienced rider in your group. If staying in the park after dark, you need a reflector and a headlight. Report all accidents.
The park has black bears, mountain lions, and Africanized honey bees. See the Wildlife Precaution page for more information regarding bears and mountain lions.
Africanized honey bees look much like native ones. They are much more aggressive, however, especially in defense of their colonies. They make their home anywhere, but need water to maintain temperature and humidity within the colony. If attacked by bees, get away quickly and seek shelter in an enclosed space such as a vehicle or building. If cover is not available, continue running until the bees stop chasing you. In some cases, this may be as much as one-half mile. These bees target the eyes, ears, nose and mouth when attacking. Use your shirt or jacket to cover your head while running away. Keep the hole you look through as small as safety will allow. Do not kill the attacking bees as this will release an alarm scent that will attract other bees from the colony. Flailing your arms or swatting at the bees only makes the attack worse. If you are attacked, call 911 and seek medical attention immediately. It is recommended that wearing light colored clothing may make you less attractive to the bees. Also don’t wear perfume or cologne as their odor may attract bees.
$10.00/private car – 7 Days and $5.00/individual – 7 Days. There is an annual pass for $25.00, good for one year from the month of purchase.
Backcountry camping is permitted in the Saguaro Wilderness Area located in the Rincon Mountain District. Overnight camping requires a permit fee of $6.00 which can be obtained through the mail, fax, or in person at the RMD visitor center. Permits are not available after noon on the day of departure. Pets are prohibited on all trails. Maximum length of stay is 10 days with no more then 5 days in any one campground. Saguaro National Park does NOT offer drive-in camping facilities in either district. Camping is available in nearby county and state parks and in the Coronado National Forest. No camping is available within the Tucson Mountain District of Saguaro National Park.
There are six wilderness campgrounds, which are only accessible by foot or horse. All of these campgrounds are a minimum of six miles from the nearest trailhead. The elevation of the campgrounds ranges from 4,800 feet for Douglas Spring to 8,000 feet for Manning Camp. There are outhouses available at all campgrounds. Douglas Spring, Grass Shack, Juniper Basin, Happy Valley Saddle and Spud Rock Spring Campgrounds each have 3 campsites. No campfires are allowed at Douglas Spring and Grass Shack Campgrounds. You are encouraged to use gas stoves at all campgrounds. Where campfires are allowed, make sure it is totally extinguished before you leave. Use only dead and downed wood. Use the bear-proof storage containers located at all the campgrounds to store food, garbage, and scented toiletries. Make sure to empty these out when you leave. Mules, donkeys, and horses are allowed with the park, but there are regulations. Check with the park before bringing them.
Manning Camp Campground has 6 campsites. This camp is located in the heart of the wilderness, and is therefore frequently used for maintenance teams and researchers. There is usually a larger number of livestock here also, so it has its own rules. Please check with the park for these rules.
Water is available seasonally in the wilderness area. Check with the RMD visitor center for a current water report. During dry seasons, water may not be available. Manning Camp has a permanent spring; however, it may be frozen over during the winter months. It is strongly recommended that all water be treated before drinking.
Practice the “Leave No Trace” principles. Camp only on durable surfaces. Pack it in and pack it out. Properly dispose of what you can’t pack out. Minimize use and impact of fires. Leave all “finds” in the park for others to enjoy. Protect and conserve water sources. Do not dig trenches or otherwise modify camping area.
Major airlines serve Tucson, Arizona as well as major bus lines and Amtrak.
From the East, to get to the east district-Rincon Mountain District, and approaching Tucson on I-10 west, reach it by taking the Houghton Road exit (275) north to Escalante Road, then turn right, heading east to Old Spanish Trail. Follow the signs to the park. From the Center of Tucson in the city, take Speedway Boulevard (exit 257 on I-10) east to Freeman Road then take Freeman Road to Old Spanish Trail. Look for signs to the park entrance.
From the North Approaching Tucson on I-10 east, reach the west district, Tucson Mountain District, by taking the Avra Valley Road exit (242) to Sandario Road, then turn left and head south, following the signs to the park. From the city of Tucson, take Speedway Boulevard west. At the junction of Camino de Oeste, Speedway Boulevard becomes Gates Pass Road. Continue west on Gates Pass Road to Kinney Road. Take Kinney Road north, following signs to the park. Due to winding, narrow mountain grades, vehicles with trailers and RVs over 25 feet are not recommended through Gates Pass and should use the Ina Road exit (248) on I-10, traveling west to Sandario Road, then turning left and heading south, following signs to the park.
The City of Tucson operates public bus transportation services throughout the City of Tucson. These bus lines do NOT reach either district of Saguaro National Park. Public transportation is not available within the park.
The east district offers a paved, 8 mile scenic loop drive. It is open to all vehicles, but is a narrow, one-way road. This road is subject to closure during flash floods. The west district offers 12 miles of paved roads and 8.5 miles of unpaved roads. The one-way portion of the Bajada Loop Drive is not suitable for long vehicles. Again, all roads are subject to closure during flash flooding.
Approximate Mileage from the following major cities to Saguaro National Park:
By Car:
From the East
Sierra Vista, AZ – 66.19 miles
San Pedro, AZ – 54.16 miles
Mesa, AZ – 135.14 miles
Phoenix, AZ – 133.62 miles
Santa Rosa, AZ – 129.41 miles
From the West
Sierra Vista, AZ – 87.65 miles
San Pedro, AZ – 30.49 miles
Mesa, AZ – 109.91 miles
Phoenix, AZ – 108.60 miles
Santa Rosa, AZ – 100.15 miles
Saguaro National Park-Headquarters and Rincon Mountain District, 3693 South Old Spanish Trail, Tucson, AZ 85730-5601
- or – Saguaro National Park-Tucson Mountain District, 2700 North Kinney Road, Tucson, AZ 85743
Visitor Information-Rincon Mountain District (520) 733-5153
Visitor Information-Tucson Mountain District (520) 733-5158
Headquarters (520) 733-5100
