Discover the Beauty of Saguaro National Park
Explore the captivating desert landscape of Saguaro National Park in Arizona
A brief summary to Saguaro National Park
- Arizona, US
- +1520-733-5153
- Visit website
Welcome to Saguaro National Park, a mesmerizing destination located in Arizona. This national park is renowned for its stunning desert landscape, characterized by the iconic saguaro cactus that dot the horizon. As you explore the park, you'll be captivated by the vast expanse of desert terrain, rugged mountains, and unique flora and fauna that call this place home. Saguaro National Park is divided into two distinct districts, each offering its own set of attractions and activities. The Rincon Mountain District to the east boasts scenic drives, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. On the other hand, the Tucson Mountain District to the west features picturesque sunsets, historic sites, and diverse plant life. Whether you're an avid hiker, nature enthusiast, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the beauty of the desert, Saguaro National Park has something for everyone. From guided ranger programs to self-guided tours, there are endless ways to experience the wonders of this natural oasis.
Local tips
- Don't forget to bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the desert sun can be intense.
- Keep an eye out for wildlife such as javelinas, roadrunners, and Gila monsters during your visit.
- Take advantage of the park's night sky programs for a chance to stargaze in one of the darkest skies in the country.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, ensure you have a GPS or a map for navigation. From Tucson, take the I-10 East towards Benson and then merge onto the I-19 South. Follow the signs for Saguaro National Park East. The park entrance is located at 3693 S Old Spanish Trail, Tucson, AZ 85730. This route is approximately 30 kilometers and should take about 30 minutes. Be aware of entrance fees: as of 2023, a private vehicle costs $25, valid for 7 days.
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Public Transportation
To reach Saguaro National Park via public transportation, you can take the Sun Tran bus service. Board Route 18 (Broadway) from downtown Tucson. The bus runs approximately every 30 minutes. Get off at the intersection of Broadway Blvd and Houghton Rd, then transfer to Route 107 (Saguaro National Park) which will take you directly to the park entrance. The total travel time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes with a cost of $1.75 for a single ride.
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Ride-sharing Services
If you prefer a more direct route without the hassle of public transport schedules, consider using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. Simply input 'Saguaro National Park' as your destination in the app. The ride from Tucson should take around 30 minutes and will cost approximately $25-$40 depending on traffic and the time of day. Be sure to check for any surge pricing during peak hours.
Attractions Nearby to Saguaro National Park
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Saguaro National Park East Side
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Garwood Dam
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Saguaro Wilderness
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Riparian Overlook
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Hope Camp Trail
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Tanque Verde Falls
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Loma Alta Trailhead
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Douglas Spring Trailhead
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Upper Tanque Verde Falls Trailhead
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Loma Verde Trailhead
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Javelina Rocks
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Rincon Mountain Visitor Center
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Saguaro National Park Sign
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Agua Caliente Hill
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Colossal Cave Mountain Park
Landmarks nearby to Saguaro National Park
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Hey Dude Filming Location
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Fantasy Island Mountain Bike Park (North)
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Chuck Ford Lakeside Park
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Tucson Santa Experience
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San Pedro Chapel
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Yume Japanese Gardens of Tucson
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El Con Tower
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Cele Peterson Rose Garden
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Santa Catalina Natural Area
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Labyrinth
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University of Arizona's Richard F. Caris Mirror Laboratory
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Flandrau Science Center and Planetarium
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Coit Museum of Pharmacy & Health Sciences
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Steward Observatory (University of Arizona)
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Rio Vista Natural Resource Park