National Parks Journal
Photo: NPS Photo
Saguaro National Park
Tucson, Arizona is home to the nation's largest cacti. The giant saguaro is the universal symbol of the American west. These majestic plants, found only in a small portion of the United States, are protected by Saguaro National Park, to the east and west of the modern city of Tucson. Here you have a chance to see these enormous cacti, silhouetted by the beauty of a magnificent desert sunset.
Entrance Fees
Activities
Top Hikes
8.7 mi · 4,000 ft gain · out & back
Ridge walk with panoramic desert scenery, a rare crested saguaro, and views from the Dome. The park's most challenging day hike.
Starts at: Javelina Picnic Area
2.4 mi · 380 ft gain · loop
Rocky stair-step sections lead through a historic mining route with excellent Sonoran Desert scenery.
Starts at: King Canyon Wash Trailhead
3.8 mi · 60 ft gain · loop
Pass through mature mesquite trees, a seasonal wash, the Loma Verde Mine, and an overlook of the cactus forest.
Starts at: Loma Verde Trailhead
1 mi · out & back
An easy trail to an old homestead foundation through a grove of large saguaros and a cool desert wash.
Starts at: Freeman Homestead Trailhead
Upcoming Events
Garden Walk (West District)
Join us for a guided walk through the Cactus Garden where you’ll explore the fascinating natural history of the Sonoran Desert! Wheelchair accessible.
Living with Giants (West District)
The saguaro celebrates events and faces challenges throughout its life. A biologist explains how it provides shelter and substance for wildlife; when it flowers; its growth patterns; and how it fights for survival against drought, lightning, frost, and other dangers. Wheelchair accessible.
Night Comes Alive (East District)
Half of the park is after dark! Join a ranger in the evening hours as night-prowling creatures begin to emerge. This program meets at the Rincon Mountain Visitor Center. After a short ranger presentation, you'll hop into your car and follow the ranger out to a trail for a <2 mile hike to explore the sights and sounds of the Sonoran desert at night. We recommend bringing your own flashlight, especially red lights or black lights!
Best Time to Visit
Best time to visit: November, December
Pleasant weather with fewer crowds
Weather & Climate
Winter Season With daytime temperature from the low 50's to the high 70's Summer Season As we get deeper into the summer season, temperatures will range from mid-90's to low 110's. This is a great time to experience the desert as the day breaks or in the late of the day as the sun disappears behind the surrounding mountain ranges. During the late spring and summer months Saguaro National Park only offers interpretive programs on an intermittent basis.