Situated near Tucson, Arizona, Saguaro National Park consists of two different regions known as the Tucson Mountain District and the Rincon Mountain District. The distance between both districts is about 30 miles.
While hiking or biking along marked trails, visitors can spot giant Saguaro cacti that have become iconic symbols of Arizona and the Sonora Desert. Some of the tallest cactuses can reach grow to be more than 200 feet tall. During late spring and early summer, this cactus blooms with beautiful white flowers. The Cactus Forest Loop and Freeman Homestead Trail are some of the most popular paths for hiking in Saguaro National Park. Picnic areas such as Signal Hill and Cam-Boh are great for enjoying lunch in this park. Ancient petroglyphs can be spotted along the trails leading to the designated picnic areas.
Hiking
Navigating the mountains of Saguaro National Park can be challenging, but well worth the effort. Located at an elevation of more than 8,000 feet, Manning Camp is one of six designated campgrounds that are located within the Saguaro Wilderness Area. The Italian Spring Head Trailhead is the most difficult hiking path that leads to the some of the tallest peaks in Saguaro National Park.
Related article: 5 Sizzling Day Hikes of Arizona
Gardens
The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum has multiple gardens that feature more than 2,000 species of plants which thrive in desert environments of Arizona and other parts of the world. The cactus garden features the well-known Saguaros, agaves and prickly pears. This museum is also home to the Warden Aquarium, which is filled with local freshwater fish from the southwest region of the United States. Hundreds of reptiles, birds and mammals can be seen in themed exhibits such as the Hummingbird Aviary and Desert Grassland. Ancient Native-American artifacts and other items related to local natural history are also presented at this museum.
Visiting Center
The Red Hills Visitor Center offers a wealth of information to anyone visiting Saguaro National Park. This facility has more than a dozen exhibits that focus on the history and geography of the Sonora Desert. Ranger-guided tours of the park begin in this visitor center. An onsite bookstore also sells some interesting books and small souvenirs.
Related article: 5 Sizzling Day Hikes of Arizona or 5 of the Best Places to Hike in Arizona
Featured Image from Christoph von Gellhorn/Unsplash
