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Saguaro National Park Review

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Saguaro National Park

Address: Saguaro West: 2700 N. Kinney Rd., 2 mi north of Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum entrance; Saguaro East: 3693 S. Old Spanish Trail, Tucson, AZ | Map It
Phone: 520/733-5158 Saguaro West; 520/733-5153 Saguaro East
nps.gov/sagu

Category: Parks
Location: Saguaro National Park

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Fodor's Review:

Standing sentinel in the desert, the towering saguaro is perhaps the most familiar emblem of the Southwest. Known for their height (often 50 feet) and arms reaching out in weird configurations, these slow-growing giants can take 15 years to grow a foot high and up to 75 years to grow their first arm. They are found only in the Sonoran Desert, and the largest concentration is in Saguaro National Park. In late spring (usually May), the succulent's top is covered with tiny white blooms—the Arizona state flower. The cacti are protected by state and federal laws, so don't disturb them.

Saguaro National Park preserves some of the densest stands of these massive cacti, which can live up to 200 years and weigh up to two tons. Today more than 90,000 acres include habitats stretching from the arid Sonoran Desert up to high mountain forests. The park is split into two sections, with Tucson sandwiched in the middle. Both districts are about a half-hour drive from central Tucson.

When should you go? Saguaro never gets crowded; however, most people visit in milder weather, December through April. December through February is cool and prone to gentle afternoon rain showers. The spring months from March through May offer bright, sunny days and desert wildflowers in bloom. Because of high temperatures, it's best to visit the park in the early morning or late afternoon from June through August. The intense heat puts off most hikers, at least at lower elevations, and lodging prices are much cheaper—rates at top resorts in Tucson drop by as much as 70%. The cooler temperatures in September, October, and November are perfect for hiking and camping throughout the park. The wildlife, from bobcats to jackrabbits, is most active in early morning and at dusk. In spring and summer lizards and snakes are out and about, but keep a low profile during the midday heat.

Cost: $10 per vehicle or $5 per person on foot or bike, good for seven days. Annual passes $25
Open: Visitor centers daily 9-5, park roads daily 7 AM-sunset

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