Ocotillo Trail at Kartchner Caverns State Park

Hike the Ocotillo Trail at Kartchner Caverns State Park for a moderately challenging desert experience with scenic mountain views and vibrant plant life.

The Ocotillo Trail, near Benson, Arizona, is a 1.7-mile hiking path that connects to the Foothills Loop Trail, creating a 3.2-mile loop through the scenic desert landscape of Kartchner Caverns State Park. This trail offers hikers a moderately challenging experience with views of the Whetstone Mountains and the surrounding Coronado National Forest.

A brief summary to Ocotillo Trail

Park Entrance Rd, Benson, Arizona, 85602, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Ocotillo Trail.

Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as the desert climate can be very dry.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes for hiking the rocky terrain.
Check the weather forecast before you go and dress appropriately, with layers for cooler mornings or evenings.
Be aware of the desert wildlife, such as snakes and scorpions, and give them space.
Consider visiting during the spring to see the ocotillo plants in bloom.

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Getting There

Driving

From Interstate 10 in Benson, take exit 302 for State Route 90 and head south for approximately 9 miles. The entrance to Kartchner Caverns State Park will be on your right. Park entrance fee is $10 per vehicle (for 1-4 people). Additional people are $1 each. Follow the park road to the main parking area near the Discovery Center. The Ocotillo Trail can be accessed from the Foothills Loop Trail near the group ramada.
Walking

From the Discovery Center parking lot, follow the signs to the Foothills Loop Trail. Once on the Foothills Loop, you can access the Ocotillo Trail from two points: either take the Foothills Loop north (counterclockwise) for about 0.5 miles and turn right onto the Ocotillo Trail, or take the Foothills Loop south (clockwise) for about 1 mile and continue straight onto the Ocotillo Trail. There are no additional costs for accessing the trail once inside the park.

Discover more about Ocotillo Trail

The Ocotillo Trail is a 1.7-mile segment that extends from the existing Foothills Loop Trail within Kartchner Caverns State Park, near Benson, Arizona. Together, they form a 3.2-mile loop that allows hikers to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Sonoran Desert. The trail is considered moderately difficult, offering a satisfying challenge for those looking to explore the area's natural beauty.As you traverse the Ocotillo Trail, you'll be treated to views of the Whetstone Mountains and the surrounding Coronado National Forest. The trail winds through dry desert washes and gentle hills, showcasing a variety of desert plants, including the Ocotillo, Creosote Bush, Mesquite, and various cacti. In the spring, the ocotillo plants display reddish-orange blossoms, adding a splash of color to the landscape.Kartchner Caverns State Park is known for its stunning limestone caverns, discovered in 1974 and opened to the public in 1999. While the caverns are a major draw, the park also offers above-ground activities such as hiking, camping, and bird watching. The park features a Discovery Center with exhibits about the cave's geology, discovery, and ecology.