Saguaro National Park. Tucson, Arizona

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Tucson, Arizona, sits right in the middle of the United States range of one of our most iconic plants - the saguaro cactus. It is also where you will find one of four national parks that is dedicated to a plant.


On the road to Saguaro NP, you can buy dried pappers




The saguaro cactus is probably what you picture in you mind when you think of a cactus. It is tall, straight and often has “arms” that branch out from its sides. Saguaro can grow up to 40 feet (12m) tall, and can live up to 150 years. If they grow branches, those usually appear when the plant is between 75 and 100 years old. Saguaro cacti are “keystone” plants. They provide food, homes and other important resources to their biological communities.


The view in Gates Pass



Saguaro National Park is has two sections, Rincon Mountain is on the eastern side of Tucson , and Red Hills is about 10 miles west of the city. I decided to head to the Red Hills district of the park, which has a higher concentration of cacti. As I have found with all national parks, it really pays to start at the visitor’s center. The rangers on duty gave me some great advice on finding unique photo opportunities. The center is also a great place to learn about the biology of the saguaro, and the biome it supports. Remember to watch the introductory film (always a treat) and be sure to stay for to the end. The visitor’s center is also where you will pay the park’s entrance fee.

Red Hills Visitor's Center










If you have just one day in the park, I suggest driving the Bajada Loop. This 6.5 mile drive along a well tended gravel-dirt road takes you through a forrest of saguaro cacti. Along the trip there are also several hiking trails and two picnic areas. 







When you visit Tucson make sure to get out east to the Saguaro National Park.

Note - According to the National Park website and listening to locals, I found out that the word “saguaro” is pronounced with a very soft ‘g’, basically a cross between an ‘h’ and a ‘w’ - sahauro.

Nuts and Bolts


  • The Red Hills Visitor’s Center is 16 miles wast of Tucson. I suggest that you take a route through Gates Pass for some spectacular views.
  • The Red Hills Visitor’s Center is open every day from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. The entrance fee is $25/car.
Location: Saguaro National Park, Arizona, USA

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