Saguaro National Park protects over 1.5 million giant saguaro cacti, the largest of its species in America. These desert monarchs are one of the iconic symbols of the American Southwest. As you look into this stunning landscape, you feel as if you have stepped right into a scene from an old western movie. But do not let this desert terrain fool you. Saguaro is full of life: lizards, owls, and Gila monsters; plus rare desert blooms, and even desert tortoises. If you are planning a trip to the desert, here is the perfect travel guide to Saguaro National Park.
Where To Find It
This park is located in the American Southwest state of Arizona. Being on the southern tip of the state, the air is extremely dry and the heat can be comfortable, yet dangerous. The most interesting fact about this park is it is actually broken into two sections. One on the Westside and the other on the Eastside of Tucson, Arizona. It is a vital part of the Sonoran Desert, preserved as Saguaro National Park. The park offers gorgeous trails off some of the most unique and diverse lands.
Where To Stay
Although there is nowhere to stay directly in the park (backcountry camping hike-in sites being the exception); being so close to Tucson there is an abundance of hotel options. We used our travel points and stayed at the Hilton resort. This was the perfect option for us, after a warm morning in the desert, we could sit at the pool and relax in the afternoon. Plus it was right in the middle of each section of the park.
Where To Eat
In Tucson, you will have your fill of delicious options of restaurants. But you will want to pack your snacks and especially your water when visiting Saguaro. There are no options for food, but there are a few water fountains by the Rincon Mountain Visitor Center and the Red Hills Visitor Center. Do not underestimate the desert. Even by mid-day in the summer the sun is at full power. Keep those water bottles topped off. The dry heat can be deceiving, even if you do not feel it, you can easily become dehydrated.
Climate and Best Time To Go
Winter Season – Late Fall to Early Spring: This is the perfect time to visit the desert. With temperatures ranging from the low 50s in the evening to the high 70s during the day, You will be able to enjoy walking through Saguaro National Park comfortably.
Summer Season – Late Spring to Early Fall: Temperatures start to rise during this time, in the mid-90s to low 110’s. I highly recommend exploring the park in the early morning hours (from sunrise to about 10 am) or in the evening (5 pm -sunset). Here are a few tips to keep in mind (taken from the NPS website).
If the daily high temperature is between 95° and 110°, finish your hike by 10 am.
If the daily high temperature is at or above 110°, please stay home.
Turn around BEFORE you have consumed half of your water supply.
Bucket List Activities
West Side of Saguaro National Park:
Look out for roadrunners on the Bajada Loop Drive – this is a 5-mile loop, but unpaved (not recommended for motorhomes and buses). If you are tired of being out in the sun, Bajada Loop is the way to go! You will get a great view of the park while staying out of the heat.
Petroglyph-hunt on Signal Hill Trail (.3 Miles) – located on the Bajada Loop, this quick walk is perfect for a morning adventure in the desert. Catch a glimpse of the dozens of drawings etched into the rocks.
Soak in the gorgeous colors at sunset at Gates Pass Overlook – after a scenic drive through the mountains, enjoy the epic view of the sunset. A perfect way to end the day, relax at the many lookout areas as the sun sets behind the Tucson Mountains.
East Side of Saguaro National Park:
Bike or drive the Cactus Forest Loop – this is an 8-mile loop, but paved, perfect if you wish to stay out of the hot sun. This is the perfect path to take as you start your day in the park. The loop will take you to some wonderful overlooks and different trails.
Search for desert lizards on the Desert Ecology Trail (.3 Miles) – this short trail is just what you need to explore that desert life. The desert trails can be hot and strenuous. If you are not prepared for walking miles in the hot sun, try out the quick and easy Ecology Trail!
Explore the Freeman Homestead Trail, perfect for families! (1.1 Miles) – as you walk along this trail, you will find epic groves of cacti! All along the trail are educational and interactive signs you and your family will love!
Favorite Instagram Spots
One of my favorite Instagram spots was right at the Rincon Mountain Visitor Center on the garden trail. There was a path off to the left of the trail that led to some great photo ops of the Saguaros. Also, on the trail was the old Saguaro in the park, 100 years old!
Another great spot from your Instagram is Gates Pass Overlook. Although this is technically out of the park, it is a great place for sunset photos! There is a limited amount of parking spaces, so be sure to get there early, if you want to grab a space.
Extra Travel Tips
I recommend you plan at least a day to visit Saguaro National Park (unless you are planning on hiking the longer trails).
If you only have a half-day, I recommend going to the east section of the park. Both sections are similar, but the east section has the paved loop drive and a few more overlooks than the west side.
The cost to enter the park is $25 per vehicle (but if you get there on a day the visitor center is closed, you just might get in for free).
Do not underestimate the power of the desert sun. Please protect yourself and bring these items with you on your trip.
Hat and Sunglasses- these will keep the sun off your face and out of your eyes. Making your outdoor adventures must more enjoyable. Here is the hat I wore on our Arizona trip!
Sunscreen – no one likes to get sunburned on their weekend getaways. Apply sunscreen in the morning and be sure to reapply if needed. This is my favorite kind.
Aloe – in case you do miss a spot with your sunscreen bring aloe to soothe those burns.
Thank you for reading!
If you have any specific questions, do not hesitate to comment down below! Or you can email us!
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