Saguaro National Park

One of the most recognizable natural features of Arizona is the Saguaro Cactus. It is a rare cactus, found in a very small part of the Southwest. And that rarity makes them as synonymous with the desert as a roadrunner and a coyote speeding along the landscape. You will be hard-pressed to find any Looney Toons. But to see a large concentration of these desert giants look no farther than Saguaro National Park.

Hikers and anyone with a love of saguaros and desert scenery will enjoy a trip to Saguaro National Park, near Tucson. This is about a two-hour drive from Phoenix. Scenic drives through the park offer beautiful views up the cactus-covered mountainsides, and hiking trails offer a chance to get out into the serenity of the desert and see some of the wildlife and vegetation up close. On the east side of Tucson is the Rincon Mountain District of Saguaro, with a paved-loop road and a couple of easy hikes. This peaceful and entertaining museum, set on 89 acres, is mostly outdoors and more of a zoo and botanical garden than a museum. Spend a day hiking the many trails. The park is an excellent choice for all skill levels and you’ll find many of the trails in Saguaro National Park good even during the winters.

Distance from Phoenix: 104.5 miles
Travel time: 1 hour 34 min

Location: Pima County, Southeastern Arizona, United States

Tripadvisor Rating: 4.5/5