Saguaro National Park
Time Needed: full-day
Experience Type: national park, outdoor adventure, scenic views
Saguaro National Park is home to the iconic saguaro cactus—the largest in the United States. Vast mountain landscapes dotted with towering cacti stretch as far as the eye can see, offering an unforgettable experience across two distinct park districts east and west of Tucson.
MUST-DO CHECKLIST
- Enjoy a scenic drive – Both park districts offer stunning loops. The 6-mile Bajada Loop Drive in the Tucson Mountain District winds through a dense forest of saguaro cacti.
- Hike among saguaros – The easy 0.8-mile Valley View Trail meanders through towering saguaros, prickly pear, and teddy bear cholla, ending at a bench with sweeping valley views.
- Check out ancient petroglyphs – Visit Signal Hill in the west district to see more than 200 prehistoric rock carvings by the Hohokam people.
- Catch sunset at Gates Pass – Experience dramatic colors over the Tucson Mountains and saguaro silhouettes. Arrive early as parking fills quickly, especially on weekends.
- Watch the night sky – Saguaro National Park, an official Urban Night Sky Place, offers prime stargazing at spots like Signal Hill and Javelina Rocks—best during new moon nights.
Itinerary Idea: Get more out of your visit to Saguaro National Park with a self-guided driving audio tour. It’s packed with wild history, mountain views, rich wildlife, and—of course—iconic saguaro cacti.