My first view of the Saguaro National Park was at Rincon Valley, the eastern part of the park. First I learned how to say “saw wah ro” properly and some fascinating facts about this tree cactus.
More Saguaro Fun Facts
- They only grow in the Sonoran Desert which is in southern Arizona, Northern Mexico and a tiny area in eastern California.
- The saguaro cactus grows very slowly taking up to 10 years to grow 1 inch in height.
- The cactus is between 50 and 75 years before it grows its first arm.
- The average lifespan is 125-150 years.
- They can store up to 200 gallons of water in their spongy tissue.
- The saguaro produces white flowers in the late spring and early summer. The blooms come out at night and are pollinated by bats, bees and birds.
- They have red edible flowers that mature in June.
- The cactus provides a critical habitat for many desert animals.
- They are an important symbol in Native American cultures, who use the fruit for food and the ribs of the dead cactus for building materials.
- They are protected under Arizona law, making it illegal to harm or remove them from the environment.
The Park
Saguaro National Park located in southern Arizona is dedicated to the conservation of the iconic saguaro cactus and the unique Sonoran Desert ecosystem. Split into two distinct districts, the park offers diverse landscapes, rich biodiversity, and a glimpse into the region’s cultural history. The park is named after the saguaro cactus, the largest cactus in the United States.
Saguaro National Park is divided into two areas, the Tucson Mountain District (West) and the Rincon Mountain District (East). Both are near the city of Tucson. The two districts are separated by about 30 miles and together encompass over 91,000 acres. The park’s elevation ranges from 2,180 to 8,666 feet, resulting in diverse habitats from lowland deserts to mountainous pine forests.
The Scenic Drives of Saguaro National Park
Each area offers a scenic drive to experience the park and view the huge cactus.
I arrived early to the Rincon Mountain District and drove the 8 mile one way paved scenic drive to see these incredible cactus. This side of the park felt quite urban being only 10 miles from downtown Tuscon and having houses bordering the park. There were lots of pull outs along the drive to view the huge saguaro and the stunning views.
I took a short hike to view the crested saguaro. Instead of the typical columnar structure this saguaro has a growing tip that forms a fan-like shape. The result is a beautitul and unusual crest at the top of the cactus. No one understands the cause of the mutation. The one I saw was too far off to get a really good picture. I saw a few others but was driving so no pictures.
After stopping for a picnic lunch at Javelina Picnic Area, one of two picnic spots in this area I travelled the 30 miles to the west side of Saguaro National Park.
Tucson Mountain District
The drive along Highway 8 was stunning with mountain views and huge sagauro cactus everywhere. There were lots of pull outs to stop and enjoy the views and take pictures. By the afternoon the weather had changed with the dark clouds and rain rolling in, which gave me the opportunity to take some dramatic pictures.
The western area of the park definitely had a more remote feel and the 5 mile scenic drive was a rough gravel road. I really connected with this area of the park and in my opinion it was more scenic and the saguaro appeared bigger and much older.
Because of the rainy weather I did not hike any of the 165 miles of trails. I did enjoy the Red Hills Visitor Center which had great information, exhibiits, shopping and an informative video about the Saguaro Cactus. I will be back to explore trails and petroglyphs next year.
Where I Camped near Saguaro National Park
The national park does not allow any car or RV camping. There are several paid campgrounds available just on the outskirts of the park. Being on a budget I look for free camping.
I spent a week in the area and was able to find BLM land near the Saguaro National Park. The first night I parked just outside the park at the Colossel Cave Parking near Vail. Synder Hill was a great spot for the next few nights.
On my way west I stayed at Freeman Road/Sonoran National Monument near Gila Bend. All were free, quiet, with okay cell reception and beautiful scenery. I highly recommend anyone traveling near Tuscon to explore this interesting national park.