Desert Discovery Nature Trail: A Sonoran Desert Introduction
Discover the wonders of the Sonoran Desert on this accessible and educational trail in Saguaro National Park West.
The Desert Discovery Nature Trail is a short, paved loop in Saguaro National Park West, offering an accessible introduction to the Sonoran Desert's unique ecosystem. Ideal for families and those with limited time, the trail features interpretive signage highlighting the area's flora and fauna, including the iconic saguaro cactus.
A brief summary to Desert Discovery Nature Trail
- Tucson, Arizona, 85743, US
- +1915-828-3251
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning, especially during the summer months, to avoid the heat and take advantage of the cooler temperatures.
- Bring water and wear sun protection, as there is limited shade along the trail.
- Take your time to read the interpretive signs and learn about the unique plants and animals of the Sonoran Desert.
- Stay on the paved path to protect the fragile desert ecosystem.
- Keep an eye out for wildlife, such as tarantulas, lizards, and birds.
Getting There
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Driving
From Tucson, take W Speedway Blvd west. Continue onto Gates Pass Road, then turn right onto Kinney Road. The Desert Discovery Nature Trail is located on the right, approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) northwest of the Red Hills Visitor Center. There is a small parking lot available at the trailhead. Parking is free. Be aware that the parking lot can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
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Walking
If you are already at the Red Hills Visitor Center, the Desert Discovery Nature Trail is an easy 1 mile (1.6 km) walk northwest along Kinney Road. Follow the road, and the trailhead will be on your right. Be cautious of traffic while walking along the road.
Discover more about Desert Discovery Nature Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Signal Hill Picnic Area
3.1 km
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Signal Hill
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Mam-A-Gah Picnic Area
4.9 km
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Brown Mountain Trail Picnic Area and Trailhead
7.2 km
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Iron Door Mine
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Cocoraque Butte Archaeological District
12.8 km
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Feliz Paseos Trails Park Trailhead
14.3 km
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Sarasota Trailhead
15.0 km
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Hidden Canyon Trail
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Richard E. Genser Starr Pass Trailhead
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Orange Slice
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Christina Taylor Green Park
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Old Pueblo Archaeology Center
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The SlaughterHouse
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Sentinel Peak
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Unmissable attractions to see
Red Hills Visitor Center
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Tucson Mountain District
1.6 km
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Bajada Loop Drive
1.8 km
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Valley View Overlook Trail
2.2 km
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Signal Hl Trl
3.2 km
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King Canyon Trailhead
4.5 km
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Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
4.7 km
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Gates Pass Trail
8.5 km
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Old Tucson
9.2 km
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Gates Pass Scenic Lookout
11.4 km
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Tucson mountain park
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International Wildlife Museum
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Bowen Stone House
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El Rio Preserve
16.0 km
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Christopher Columbus Park
16.7 km
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Essential places to dine
Ironwood Terraces Restaurant
4.8 km
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In-N-Out Burger
15.3 km
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Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
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Signature Grill with Patio Dining
16.0 km
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Salud
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Persian Room Fine Dining
20.0 km
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Agustin Kitchen
21.8 km
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Café à La C'Art
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El Charro Café Downtown
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JoJo's Restaurant
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Chef Alisah's Restaurant
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El Mezquite Grill & Taqueria
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Perche' No
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Coronet Restaurant
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BATA
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ironwood Gift Shop
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Gifts Shop
9.1 km
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Buffalo Trading Post
13.1 km
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Cat Mountain Station
13.2 km
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Mercado San Agustin
21.8 km
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MAST
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Petroglyphs - A Tucson Emporium
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MESA Shop
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Norcross - Madagascar (US) LLC
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Rain Crow
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AntiqueModern Tucson
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Grant-Stone Shopping Center
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Earthbound
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Arizona Gifts
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Short Rest Tavern
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Tommy’s Saloon
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Brother John's Beer Bourbon & BBQ
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Bar Crisol/Exo
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Nightjar
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Tough Luck Club
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Whiskey Roads
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Curves Cabaret
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Lust DWTN
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Zen Nightclub
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IBT's Bar + Food
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The Century Room
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Royal Hookah Lounge
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Club 4th
24.2 km
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Bojangles Night Club
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The Shelter Bar
29.0 km
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Hush Social Club
29.4 km
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Love Cabaret
32.5 km
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TD's Showclubs East
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The Maverick King of Clubs
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