Discover the Untamed Beauty of Saguaro Wilderness
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and iconic saguaro cacti of Saguaro Wilderness, a nature preserve that embodies the beauty of Arizona's Sonoran Desert.
Nestled in Tucson, Arizona, the Saguaro Wilderness offers breathtaking landscapes and a unique opportunity to explore the iconic saguaro cactus in its natural habitat. This nature preserve invites outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers to immerse themselves in stunning desert scenery, diverse wildlife, and a variety of hiking trails amidst the towering cacti and rugged mountains.
A brief summary to Saguaro Wilderness
- Tucson, Arizona, 85730, US
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are limited within the preserve.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes to navigate the rocky trails comfortably.
- Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially during dawn and dusk when animals are most active.
- Consider visiting during the spring to see the desert in bloom with vibrant wildflowers.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, you can access Saguaro Wilderness from either the East or West side of Saguaro National Park. If you are coming from Tucson, take East Speedway Blvd and head east until you reach the intersection with Old Spanish Trail. Continue on Old Spanish Trail until it leads you into the park. Follow the signs to either the East or West District of the park, depending on your preference for trails and sights. The designated parking areas near the wilderness access points are free of charge.
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Public Transportation
If using public transportation, take the Sun Tran bus route 6 from downtown Tucson towards the Eastside. Get off at the nearest stop to the Saguaro National Park visitor center. From there, you will need to either walk or use a rideshare service to reach the park entrance. Sun Tran fares are typically around $1.75 for a single ride, so make sure to have cash or a transit card ready.
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Hiking
Once you reach Saguaro Wilderness, there are multiple trails to explore. From the Visitor Center, the Mica View Trail is a popular 0.8-mile loop that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and leads deeper into the wilderness. Make sure to take plenty of water and wear sturdy hiking shoes as the terrain can be uneven.
Discover more about Saguaro Wilderness
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hey Dude Filming Location
4.6 km
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)
9.3 km
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Joining Hands
15.6 km
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Tucson Santa Experience
17.9 km
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Las Saetas
17.9 km
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San Pedro Chapel
18.3 km
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Old Pueblo Hall
19.0 km
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Yume Japanese Gardens of Tucson
20.3 km
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El Con Tower
20.7 km
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Cele Peterson Rose Garden
21.0 km
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Ball-Paylore House
22.9 km
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Labyrinth
23.4 km
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University of Arizona's Richard F. Caris Mirror Laboratory
23.4 km
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Flandrau Science Center and Planetarium
23.5 km
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Coit Museum of Pharmacy & Health Sciences
23.5 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Riparian Overlook
0.6 km
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Loma Verde Trailhead
0.9 km
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Saguaro National Park East Side
1.4 km
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Garwood Dam
1.8 km
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Cactus Frst Trl
2.3 km
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Sonoran Desert Overlook
3.1 km
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Javelina Rocks
3.3 km
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Rincon Mountain Visitor Center
4.0 km
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Saguaro National Park Sign
4.1 km
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Douglas Spring Trailhead
4.1 km
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Tanque Verde Ranch
4.9 km
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Tanque Verde Peak
6.6 km
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Tanque Verde Falls
7.2 km
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Hope Camp Trail
7.5 km
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Loma Alta Trailhead
7.6 km
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Essential places to dine
Saguaro Corners Restaurant & Bar
4.3 km
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Rincon Mountain Grill
6.4 km
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The Barnyard Crafthouse & Eatery
7.8 km
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Little Anthony's Diner
13.6 km
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Zona 78
14.0 km
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Rancho Rustico Restaurant
14.1 km
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Pinnacle Peak
15.3 km
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Black Bear Diner Tucson
15.4 km
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The Cork Tucson
15.4 km
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Gus Balon's Restaurant
15.4 km
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Mama Louisa's Italian Restaurant & Catering
16.3 km
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The Dutch - DAM Good Food
16.9 km
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Kon Tiki Restaurant & Lounge
18.3 km
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Hi-Way Chef Restaurant
18.4 km
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Polish Cottage
18.5 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rocking K Market
8.3 km
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Girlfriends Closet
8.5 km
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Gamebro LLC
10.4 km
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Of Good Cheer
11.6 km
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Injoy Thrift Stores
11.8 km
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Saguaro Vista Shopping Center
12.3 km
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Epic Worlds
12.9 km
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Que Bonita Furniture
14.6 km
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Whimsy Tucson
14.9 km
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La Plaza Shoppes
15.2 km
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Embellish Home Etc
15.2 km
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Toys-N-Tiques Collectibles-Gen
15.3 km
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UNA Center
15.4 km
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FUEGO / ATTIC SALT
15.6 km
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Park Place Mall
15.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Dog House Saloon at The Tanque Verde Ranch
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The Oink Cafe
13.3 km
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Guadalajara Fiesta Grill
13.6 km
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Poco & Moms Cantina
14.4 km
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The Maverick King of Clubs
15.0 km
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Cowpony Bar
15.2 km
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Divine Bovine Burgers
15.3 km
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Hacienda del Lago
16.2 km
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The Bambi Bar
17.7 km
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Commoner & Co
18.0 km
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The Neighborhood Bar OG
19.4 km
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The Shelter Bar
20.0 km
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Territorial Bar
20.5 km
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Mint Bar
21.1 km
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M & M Saloon
21.3 km
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