Saguaro NP - East or West
 

Hi

we're passing through Tuscon at the end of April and would like to visit this park. It seems to be in two bits? Which is the best one to see? Or will it be down to calling into whichever suits our drive? We will be coming from the Phoenix direction and heading out to Pearce. It is possible we may get an overnight stay on the approach side - if so, does anyone have any recommendations?

Thanks
Krissie

tuCSon.
The West side NP is a bit closer to the freeway(I-10) and you won't need to drive
all the way accross town. Also, you should not miss this opportunity to visit the world class Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, which is located nearly in Saguaro NP West.
www.desertmuseum.org
>>>get an overnight stay on the approach side<<< of what??
There are loads of chain motels along the freeway in Tucson.
R5

I think the west side is the best.
And the drive up over Gates Pass is excellent.
Enjoy!

Ahhh good memories~
I was born in Tucson and once in a while, visit relatives. We always go out to the Sonora Desert Museum. Do go there if at all possible.
Have a great time Krissie!

Hubby and I have done both sides of Saguaro NP. Decide what to combine it with. For the west side, Arizona-Sonara Desert Museum. They have a great demo for the hawks. On the east side, pair it with Sabino Canyon. Either way you can't miss.

We chose the west side too because of the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. Both are truly amazing, you are in for a treat.

Have you considered Organ Pipe Nat'l Park? A bit of a trip but if you like cacti, its really cool and worth the drive.

Many thanks to you all, the West side (and Desert Museum) it will be!

Which road is Gates Pass on?

Where is Organ Pipe NP?

Re accommodation on the approach: I meant heading down from Phoenix direction towards Tucson on I10 or close to. Not too keen in driving into Tucson unless it's a must see.

Krissie

Krissie:
This from the AZ Sonora Desert museum
website, www.desertmuseum.org

>>>>>from I-10, take the Speedway Blvd. Exit and head west. Turn right onto Kinney Road. In about 2.5 miles, the Desert Museum will be on your left.<<<<<

The "Gates Pass" part is a pass you drive over the mountain ridge just before you drop down into the valley where the ASDM is located. It's a beautiful ride. Check out the map on the ASDM website.

Organ Pipe NP is located a tad south
and 125 miles east of Tucson on Hwy 86
You travel through Papago Indian Reservation most of the way.
Get a good Arizona map.
Should be a great time of year to be in the desert.
R5

Hi Krissie!
You're in for a great trip. I recommend the Ramada Limited at the northern edge of Tucson. If you have a Triple A tour book, it will be listed under Marana on Hospitality Dr. It's clean, in a safe location, and, with a little work, very reasonable. I'll be staying there for a second time the first week of March. ( The first rate I was offered was about $90.00. However, I ended up with a rate of $59.00 - before taxes! ) Tell them a friend paid less than $60.00 and that you would like the same rate. Hey, we're friends right!? Good luck!