Saguaro National Park: A Desert Oasis
Discover the iconic saguaro cactus and the breathtaking beauty of the Sonoran Desert in Saguaro National Park, Arizona.
Saguaro National Park, divided into the Rincon Mountain District (East) and the Tucson Mountain District (West), protects the iconic saguaro cactus and the diverse Sonoran Desert landscape. Explore scenic drives, hiking trails, and unique desert wildlife in this natural sanctuary surrounding Tucson, Arizona.
A brief summary to Saguaro National Park
- Arizona, US
- +1520-733-5153
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the cooler months (October-April) to avoid extreme heat and enjoy comfortable hiking weather.
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and wear appropriate hiking shoes, especially if exploring the trails.
- Explore both the Rincon Mountain District (East) and Tucson Mountain District (West) to experience the park's diverse landscapes.
- Check for alerts and fire restrictions before your visit, especially during dry seasons.
Getting There
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Car
From Tucson International Airport (TUS), drive approximately 30 minutes to either district. For the Rincon Mountain District (East), take Broadway Boulevard east to Freeman Road, then turn right on Old Spanish Trail. For the Tucson Mountain District (West), head west on Speedway Boulevard, which becomes Gates Pass Road, then turn right on Kinney Road. Entrance fee is $25 per private vehicle, valid for 7 days in both districts. Limited RV parking is available at the Tucson Mountain District visitor center. Be aware that the maximum vehicle weight on the Tucson Mountain District is 12,000 lbs.
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Public Transport
From downtown Tucson, several bus lines (e.g., 17, 4, 8) can get you within walking distance of Saguaro National Park East. The nearest bus station to Saguaro National Park East is Broadway/Bonanza (Se), which is a 15-minute walk away. From there, you can walk or bike to the park entrance. There aren't public transportation options to Saguaro West. A single bus fare costs $1.75.
Discover more about Saguaro National Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hey Dude Filming Location
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Explore the Hey Dude Filming Location in Tucson, Arizona, where cinematic history meets stunning desert landscapes, perfect for movie buffs and adventurers alike.
Fantasy Island Mountain Bike Park (North)
16.8 km
Tucson's premier mountain biking destination with trails for all skill levels, offering a unique desert riding experience.
Joining Hands
22.0 km
A public art landmark on Tucson's Julian Wash Greenway, symbolizing community and unity along The Chuck Huckelberry Loop.
Old Pueblo Hall
22.4 km
Experience the vibrant culture and history of Tucson at Old Pueblo Hall, a captivating tourist attraction showcasing local traditions.
Tucson Santa Experience
25.7 km
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Las Saetas
26.4 km
Explore Las Saetas, a Pueblo Revival gem in Tucson's historic Fort Lowell, reflecting the area's vibrant past and artistic heritage.
San Pedro Chapel
26.7 km
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Yume Japanese Gardens of Tucson
28.8 km
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El Con Tower
29.1 km
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Cele Peterson Rose Garden
29.4 km
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Ball-Paylore House
31.4 km
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Historic Pontatoc mine
31.6 km
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Labyrinth
31.8 km
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University of Arizona's Richard F. Caris Mirror Laboratory
31.9 km
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Flandrau Science Center and Planetarium
32.0 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Tanque Verde Peak
2.2 km
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Saguaro National Park East Side
7.6 km
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Garwood Dam
8.2 km
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Saguaro Wilderness
8.5 km
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Riparian Overlook
8.9 km
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Hope Camp Trail
8.9 km
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Tanque Verde Falls
8.9 km
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Loma Alta Trailhead
9.0 km
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Douglas Spring Trailhead
9.1 km
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Upper Tanque Verde Falls Trailhead
9.2 km
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Tanque Verde Ranch
9.4 km
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Loma Verde Trailhead
9.4 km
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Javelina Rocks
9.9 km
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Cactus Frst Trl
10.4 km
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Sonoran Desert Overlook
11.2 km
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Essential places to dine
Saguaro Corners Restaurant & Bar
11.9 km
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Rincon Mountain Grill
13.7 km
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The Barnyard Crafthouse & Eatery
15.5 km
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Rancho Rustico Restaurant
18.4 km
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Little Anthony's Diner
22.1 km
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Zona 78
22.4 km
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Pinnacle Peak
23.7 km
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Gus Balon's Restaurant
23.9 km
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The Cork Tucson
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Black Bear Diner Tucson
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Mama Louisa's Italian Restaurant & Catering
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The Dutch - DAM Good Food
25.4 km
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Hi-Way Chef Restaurant
25.5 km
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Kon Tiki Restaurant & Lounge
26.8 km
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Polish Cottage
27.0 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rocking K Market
12.0 km
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Girlfriends Closet
17.0 km
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Gamebro LLC
18.9 km
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Epic Worlds
19.0 km
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Of Good Cheer
19.2 km
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Injoy Thrift Stores
20.3 km
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Saguaro Vista Shopping Center
20.8 km
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Que Bonita Furniture
23.0 km
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Whimsy Tucson
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La Plaza Shoppes
23.6 km
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Embellish Home Etc
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Toys-N-Tiques Collectibles-Gen
23.7 km
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UNA Center
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FUEGO / ATTIC SALT
24.1 km
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Park Place Mall
24.1 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Dog House Saloon at The Tanque Verde Ranch
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Hacienda del Lago
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The Oink Cafe
21.8 km
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Guadalajara Fiesta Grill
22.1 km
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Poco & Moms Cantina
22.9 km
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The Maverick King of Clubs
23.5 km
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Cowpony Bar
23.7 km
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Divine Bovine Burgers
23.8 km
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Commoner & Co
25.8 km
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The Bambi Bar
26.2 km
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The Neighborhood Bar OG
27.8 km
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The Shelter Bar
28.4 km
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Territorial Bar
28.7 km
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M & M Saloon
29.1 km
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Mint Bar
29.6 km
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