Ironwood Forest National Monument: A Sonoran Desert Gem
Discover Arizona's Ironwood Forest National Monument: a Sonoran Desert landscape rich in history, biodiversity, and outdoor adventure.
Ironwood Forest National Monument, located 25 miles northwest of Tucson, Arizona, showcases the unique beauty and biodiversity of the Sonoran Desert. Named for its rich stands of ironwood trees, the monument features rugged mountain ranges, historic sites, and diverse flora and fauna.
A brief summary to Ironwood Forest National Monument
- Interstate 10, Tucson, Arizona, 85756, US
- +1520-258-7200
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the cooler months (November-March) for the most comfortable hiking and camping weather.
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and wear closed-toe shoes, especially when hiking.
- Be aware that roads can be rough; high-clearance vehicles are recommended for some areas.
- There are no facilities, so pack everything you need, including food and supplies.
- Check with the BLM office for current road conditions and safety information.
Getting There
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Driving
The Ironwood Forest National Monument has two main entry points from Interstate 10. From Tucson, take I-10 west to Marana. Take Exit 236 and turn left onto Sandario Road, then right onto Marana Road. Continue on Marana Road to Silverbell Road to reach the monument. Alternatively, take I-10 to the Red Rock exit, then southwest on Sasco Road to Silverbell Road. Be aware that roads within the monument are unpaved and can be rough, requiring high-clearance vehicles in some areas. There are no fees to enter the monument.
Discover more about Ironwood Forest National Monument
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Old Sasco Building Remains
7.5 km
Explore the historic Old Sasco Building Remains in Marana, AZ: a glimpse into Arizona's mining past amidst stunning desert scenery.
Red Rock, Arizona, Southern Pacific Depot
18.3 km
Step back in time at the Southern Pacific Depot in Red Rock, Arizona, a preserved landmark from the railway's golden age.
Picacho Peak State Park
21.0 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and rich history at Picacho Peak State Park, a picturesque haven in Arizona's Sonoran Desert.
Cocoraque Butte Archaeological District
29.9 km
Explore the Cocoraque Butte Archaeological District, a historical landmark in Arizona that reveals the stories of ancient cultures amidst stunning desert landscapes.
Signal Hill
31.8 km
Explore ancient Hohokam rock art and panoramic desert views at Signal Hill in Saguaro National Park West, a window into Arizona's past.
Signal Hill Picnic Area
31.9 km
Discover ancient rock art and scenic beauty at Signal Hill Picnic Area in Saguaro National Park West.
Mam-A-Gah Picnic Area
37.8 km
Hike to tranquility at Mam-A-Gah Picnic Area in Saguaro National Park: desert views, peaceful picnicking, and a touch of CCC history.
Brown Mountain Trail Picnic Area and Trailhead
40.7 km
Explore the Sonoran Desert on Brown Mountain Trail: panoramic views, diverse cacti, and a rewarding hike in Tucson Mountain Park.
Picacho Mountains Petroglyph Sites Trail
41.6 km
Discover ancient rock art and stunning desert scenery at the Picacho Mountains Petroglyph Sites Trail in Coolidge, Arizona.
Iron Door Mine
42.6 km
Explore the haunted Iron Door Mine near Tucson, where legends of lost gold and the Old West come alive.
Christina Taylor Green Park
44.2 km
A serene Tucson park honoring Christina Taylor Green with botanical trails, a butterfly garden, and a memorial statue.
Orange Slice
44.8 km
A whimsical and vibrant public art installation in Tucson, celebrating local history and creativity with a giant orange slice.
Feliz Paseos Trails Park Trailhead
46.2 km
Explore the Sonoran Desert with accessible trails and stunning views at Feliz Paseos Trails Park in Tucson, Arizona.
Tom Mix Memorial
46.9 km
Visit the Tom Mix Memorial in Florence, AZ, to honor a legendary cowboy star and experience a piece of Hollywood's golden age.
Hidden Canyon Trail
48.1 km
Escape into the Sonoran Desert on this accessible Tucson trail, offering scenic views and a peaceful hiking experience.
Unmissable attractions to see
Red Rock 4x4 Pit
14.6 km
Experience the thrill of off-roading and breathtaking landscapes at Red Rock 4x4 Pit, a must-visit adventure hotspot in Arizona.
Red Rock
18.0 km
Explore Red Rock, Arizona - a breathtaking natural wonder with stunning landscapes, rich history, and endless outdoor adventures.
Signal Hl Trl
31.9 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich history along Signal Hill Trail in Arizona, a must-visit destination for every outdoor enthusiast.
El Rio Preserve
32.6 km
Explore the natural beauty of El Rio Preserve in Tucson, Arizona, where scenic trails and abundant wildlife await outdoor enthusiasts.
Bajada Loop Drive
33.5 km
Discover the stunning landscapes of Bajada Loop Drive in Saguaro National Park West, where iconic saguaros and unique wildlife await.
Valley View Overlook Trail
33.5 km
Explore the breathtaking views and family-friendly hiking experience at Valley View Overlook Trail in Tucson, Arizona.
Desert Discovery Nature Trail
33.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Sonoran Desert at the Desert Discovery Nature Trail, a must-visit hiking area in Tucson, Arizona.
Red Hills Visitor Center
35.2 km
Explore the iconic Saguaro National Park at the Red Hills Visitor Center, your gateway to Arizona's stunning desert landscapes and unique ecosystems.
Tucson Mountain District
35.2 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and rich heritage of the Tucson Mountain District, a natural wonder in Arizona's Saguaro National Park.
King Canyon Trailhead
37.9 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of King Canyon Trailhead in Tucson, Arizona – a hiker's paradise in the heart of the Sonoran Desert.
Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
38.2 km
Explore the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, an extraordinary fusion of natural history museum, zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden in Tucson's stunning desert landscape.
Arthur Pack Regional Park
41.5 km
Explore the expansive trails, rich wildlife, and stunning landscapes of Arthur Pack Regional Park in Tucson, Arizona, a perfect getaway for outdoor lovers.
Gates Pass Trail
42.1 km
Experience the stunning natural beauty of Gates Pass Trail in Arizona, a perfect hiking destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Old Tucson
42.7 km
Experience the essence of the Wild West at Old Tucson, a thrilling theme park filled with live shows, historic charm, and interactive adventures.
Gates Pass Scenic Lookout
44.7 km
Experience the breathtaking views and serene landscapes of Gates Pass Scenic Lookout, a must-visit scenic spot in Tucson, Arizona.
Essential places to dine
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
37.8 km
Discover the heartwarming flavors of Southern cuisine at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Tucson - where comfort food meets country charm.
In-N-Out Burger
38.0 km
Savor delicious burgers and fries at In-N-Out Burger in Tucson—a must-visit for every food lover exploring Arizona.
Ironwood Terraces Restaurant
38.3 km
Experience delightful American cuisine surrounded by breathtaking desert views at Ironwood Terraces Restaurant in Tucson.
Persian Room Fine Dining
41.5 km
Discover authentic Persian flavors at Tucson's premier dining destination, where culinary artistry meets rich cultural heritage.
Salud
48.7 km
Discover Salud: A culinary haven in Tucson blending American and Latin American flavors amidst stunning desert vistas.
Signature Grill with Patio Dining
48.7 km
Discover exquisite American and continental cuisine at Signature Grill in Tucson, featuring stunning patio views for an unforgettable dining experience.
The Parish
49.5 km
Discover vibrant Cajun cuisine and innovative cocktails at The Parish - Tucson's premier American gastropub offering unforgettable dining experiences.
Epazote Kitchen & Cocktails
49.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Southwestern American cuisine at Epazote Kitchen & Cocktails in Tucson – where every dish tells a story.
Chef Alisah's Restaurant
49.7 km
Experience authentic European cuisine in the heart of Tucson at Chef Alisah's Restaurant - where every dish tells a story.
Sullivan's Steakhouse
53.5 km
Experience culinary excellence at Sullivan's Steakhouse in Tucson - where fine dining meets exceptional service.
Agustin Kitchen
53.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of New American cuisine at Agustin Kitchen in Tucson - where local ingredients meet culinary creativity.
Wild Garlic Grill
53.6 km
Discover exquisite French-Mid Atlantic cuisine at Wild Garlic Grill in Tucson's scenic Catalina Foothills.
Vivace Restaurant
53.8 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Vivace Restaurant in Tucson's Catalina Foothills.
Union Public House
53.9 km
Discover the flavors of America at Union Public House in Tucson—where comfort food meets vibrant ambiance.
El Charro Café Downtown
54.1 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at El Charro Café Downtown in Tucson – where tradition meets flavor in every bite.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ironwood Gift Shop
38.3 km
Explore the charm of Tucson at Ironwood Gift Shop, where unique gifts and local crafts await every visitor.
Gifts Shop
42.7 km
Explore Tucson's vibrant gift shop for unique souvenirs and artisan crafts that celebrate the essence of Arizona's culture and creativity.
Buffalo Trading Post
46.8 km
Explore Buffalo Trading Post in Tucson, AZ for unique clothing and local treasures, reflecting the rich culture and artistry of the Southwest.
Cat Mountain Station
46.8 km
Explore the eclectic treasures of Cat Mountain Station: a unique gift shop, antique store, and art gallery in Tucson, Arizona.
Great Successes
48.3 km
Explore Great Successes Gift Shop in Tucson, Arizona, for unique gifts and local crafts that celebrate the spirit of the Southwest.
The Happy Saguaro
48.8 km
Explore The Happy Saguaro in Tucson for unique home goods and gifts that reflect Arizona's vibrant culture and creativity.
Oracle Plaza
49.8 km
Explore Oracle Plaza, Tucson's premier shopping mall offering diverse retail, delicious dining, and vibrant community events for every visitor.
Earthbound
51.0 km
Explore Earthbound in Tucson for unique gifts, clothing, and jewelry that capture the essence of local artistry and creativity.
Arizona Gifts
51.1 km
Explore the heart of Tucson at Arizona Gifts, where unique souvenirs and local artistry meet to create unforgettable memories.
FUEGO / ATTIC SALT
51.1 km
Explore Fuego / Attic Salt in Tucson for unique gifts, stylish clothing, and local artisan treasures that capture the essence of Arizona's vibrant culture.
Rain Crow
52.8 km
Discover Rain Crow in Tucson: where local art meets exceptional coffee in a vibrant and inviting atmosphere.
Just Cause Thrift Shop
52.9 km
Discover unique treasures at Just Cause Thrift Shop in Tucson, a community-driven thrift store offering vintage finds and sustainable shopping.
Grant-Stone Shopping Center
53.0 km
Explore the Grant-Stone Shopping Center in Tucson, AZ, a vibrant retail hub filled with diverse shopping and dining options for every tourist.
AntiqueModern Tucson
53.0 km
Explore AntiqueModern Tucson for a unique blend of vintage and modern treasures that reflect the artistic spirit of the Old West.
Norcross - Madagascar (US) LLC
53.1 km
Explore Tucson's hidden gem for rock and mineral enthusiasts at Norcross - Madagascar (US) LLC, a treasure trove of natural beauty.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Li'l Abner's Steakhouse
35.6 km
Experience the best of Tucson dining at Li'l Abner's Steakhouse, where delicious steaks and live music create unforgettable memories.
The Station Pub & Grill
36.1 km
Experience a vibrant atmosphere and delicious American cuisine at The Station Pub & Grill in Tucson.
Casa Marana Beer · Wine · Spirits • Pizza
37.7 km
Experience the best of Tucson at Casa Marana, where delicious pizza and a vibrant bar atmosphere come together!
Monsoons Tap & Grill
43.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Monsoons Tap & Grill in Tucson, where American grill classics meet a casual atmosphere perfect for any occasion.
Tap & Bottle - North
48.9 km
Experience the best craft beers and wines at Tap & Bottle - North, Tucson's go-to bar and beer store for enthusiasts and casual drinkers.
The Edge - A Tucson Bar
49.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Edge in Tucson, featuring live music, karaoke, and an inviting atmosphere perfect for socializing.
Dragoon Brewing Company
50.3 km
Discover the finest craft beers and local flavors at Dragoon Brewing Company in Tucson, Arizona.
Short Rest Tavern
50.9 km
Discover Short Rest Tavern in Tucson: Where great cocktails meet board game fun in a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Tommy’s Saloon
52.7 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and friendly service at Tommy's Saloon, Tucson's go-to bar for locals and tourists alike.
The Jackrabbit Lounge
52.8 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and live music at The Jackrabbit Lounge, Tucson's premier grill and bar destination for an unforgettable night out.
Brodies Dark Horse Tavern
52.9 km
Experience Tucson's local flavor at Brodies Dark Horse Tavern, where delicious grill dishes and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.
Nancy's Boondocks
53.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cocktails at Nancy's Boondocks, a must-visit bar and grill in Tucson, Arizona.
Brother John's Beer Bourbon & BBQ
53.4 km
Experience the best of Tucson’s barbecue culture with a vast selection of beers and a welcoming atmosphere at Brother John's Beer Bourbon & BBQ.
Blanco Cocina + Cantina
53.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Blanco Cocina + Cantina, Tucson's ultimate destination for Mexican cuisine and craft cocktails.
North Italia
53.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at North Italia, a Tucson favorite known for its fresh ingredients and welcoming ambiance, perfect for families and food lovers.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Whiskey Roads
45.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Tucson at Whiskey Roads, where delicious grills meet a lively bar atmosphere, perfect for any occasion.
TD's Showclubs
51.5 km
Unleash the nightlife fun at TD's Showclubs, Tucson's premier adult entertainment venue, featuring captivating performances and a vibrant atmosphere.
Curves Cabaret
52.7 km
Discover the excitement of Curves Cabaret, Tucson's favorite adult entertainment club, where vibrant performances and a lively atmosphere await you.
IBT's Bar + Food
54.7 km
Discover Tucson's vibrant nightlife at IBT's Bar + Food, where American cuisine meets karaoke fun in a welcoming gay bar atmosphere.
Lust DWTN
54.7 km
Experience the vibrant Tucson nightlife at Lust DWTN, a rooftop night club with stunning views and unforgettable music.
Zen Nightclub
54.8 km
Dive into Tucson's nightlife at Zen Nightclub - a vibrant venue offering electrifying music, dance, and a lively atmosphere for all party enthusiasts.
Royal Hookah Lounge
54.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Royal Hookah Lounge in Tucson, where flavorful hookahs and lively entertainment create unforgettable evenings.
The Century Room
55.0 km
Experience the soulful rhythms of jazz at The Century Room, Tucson's premier jazz club, offering live music and an intimate atmosphere.
Club 4th
56.4 km
Experience Tucson's vibrant nightlife at Club 4th, where music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere make for unforgettable nights out.
The Shelter Bar
58.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Shelter Bar, Tucson's top cocktail lounge, offering a unique selection of drinks and a welcoming ambiance.
Bojangles Night Club
59.0 km
Discover Tucson's nightlife at Bojangles Night Club, where live music, dancing, and great vibes await you every night.
Hush Social Club
61.1 km
Discover Tucson's nightlife at Hush Social Club, where vibrant music, stylish ambiance, and social connections come alive.
Love Cabaret
62.5 km
Discover an electrifying nightlife experience at Love Cabaret, Tucson's premier destination for dance, music, and unforgettable entertainment.
TD's Showclubs East
62.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Tucson at TD's Showclubs East, the premier adult entertainment venue for unforgettable performances and exhilarating atmosphere.
The Maverick King of Clubs
63.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine at The Maverick King of Clubs, a top live music venue in Tucson, Arizona.
