Explore the Majestic Bajada Loop Drive at Saguaro National Park West
Discover the scenic beauty and iconic saguaro cacti of Bajada Loop Drive in Saguaro National Park West, Arizona's natural wonder.
Bajada Loop Drive offers a stunning journey through the iconic Saguaro National Park West, showcasing the beauty of Arizona’s desert landscape. Ideal for tourists seeking breathtaking views and an immersive nature experience, this scenic drive reveals the park's vibrant flora and fauna, including its famous towering saguaro cacti. A must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike, Bajada Loop Drive is the perfect introduction to the wonders of the American Southwest.
A brief summary to Bajada Loop Drive
- Saguaro National Park West, Arizona, US
- +1520-733-5158
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and cooler temperatures.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are limited within the park.
- Wear sturdy walking shoes if you plan to hike any of the trails off the loop.
- Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially in the cooler parts of the day.
- Check the park's website for any alerts or updates before your visit.
Getting There
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Public Bus
From downtown Tucson, head to the Ronstadt Transit Center located at 215 E Toole Ave. Take Sun Tran bus route 24 towards 'Saguaro National Park West.' The bus will take you directly to the park entrance. Be sure to check the bus schedule for the latest times, as they may vary. Once you arrive at Saguaro National Park West, you can explore the Bajada Loop Drive.
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Bicycle
If you're feeling adventurous, you can rent a bicycle from one of the local shops in downtown Tucson. Head west on Congress St until you reach the intersection with I-10. Continue on Congress St as it becomes Ajo Way. Follow Ajo Way until you reach the entrance of Saguaro National Park West. The distance is approximately 8 miles, and there are bike lanes for most of the route. Enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way!
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Walking
Walking to Saguaro National Park West from downtown Tucson is quite a trek, about 8 miles. Start at the Tucson Convention Center and head west on Congress St. Continue onto Ajo Way. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated. This route does not have sidewalks for the entire distance, so be cautious and plan for a long walk. It will take you a few hours, but the scenic views of the desert landscape along Ajo Way can be rewarding.
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Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
For a more convenient option, consider using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Open the app and set your pickup location in downtown Tucson. Enter 'Saguaro National Park West' as your destination. The ride will take approximately 20 minutes depending on traffic. This is a great option if you're traveling with a group or carrying a lot of gear for your visit to the park.
Discover more about Bajada Loop Drive
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Signal Hill Picnic Area
1.8 km
Experience the serene beauty of Signal Hill Picnic Area in Saguaro National Park, where stunning desert views and peaceful picnicking await.
Signal Hill
1.9 km
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Mam-A-Gah Picnic Area
4.3 km
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Brown Mountain Trail Picnic Area and Trailhead
7.2 km
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Iron Door Mine
9.1 km
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Feliz Paseos Trails Park Trailhead
13.5 km
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Cocoraque Butte Archaeological District
14.4 km
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Hidden Canyon Trail
15.0 km
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Sarasota Trailhead
15.0 km
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Richard E. Genser Starr Pass Trailhead
16.4 km
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Orange Slice
17.0 km
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Christina Taylor Green Park
18.2 km
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The SlaughterHouse
20.1 km
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Old Pueblo Archaeology Center
20.2 km
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Children's Memorial Park
20.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Valley View Overlook Trail
0.4 km
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Desert Discovery Nature Trail
1.8 km
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Signal Hl Trl
1.8 km
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Red Hills Visitor Center
2.3 km
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Tucson Mountain District
2.3 km
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King Canyon Trailhead
4.4 km
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Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
4.7 km
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Gates Pass Trail
8.7 km
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Old Tucson
9.2 km
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Gates Pass Scenic Lookout
11.2 km
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Tucson mountain park
11.6 km
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International Wildlife Museum
13.3 km
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El Rio Preserve
14.2 km
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Bowen Stone House
14.2 km
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Christopher Columbus Park
15.4 km
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Essential places to dine
Ironwood Terraces Restaurant
4.8 km
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In-N-Out Burger
13.5 km
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Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
13.9 km
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Signature Grill with Patio Dining
15.6 km
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Salud
15.6 km
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Persian Room Fine Dining
18.3 km
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Agustin Kitchen
21.1 km
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Chef Alisah's Restaurant
21.4 km
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The Parish
21.8 km
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Café à La C'Art
21.9 km
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El Charro Café Downtown
22.0 km
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JoJo's Restaurant
22.0 km
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BATA
22.3 km
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Perche' No
22.3 km
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El Mezquite Grill & Taqueria
22.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ironwood Gift Shop
4.8 km
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Gifts Shop
9.2 km
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Buffalo Trading Post
13.3 km
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Cat Mountain Station
13.3 km
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Mercado San Agustin
21.1 km
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MAST
21.1 km
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Petroglyphs - A Tucson Emporium
21.2 km
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Why I Love Where I Live
21.3 km
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MESA Shop
21.3 km
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Earthbound
21.3 km
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Arizona Gifts
21.3 km
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FUEGO / ATTIC SALT
21.3 km
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Rain Crow
21.5 km
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Norcross - Madagascar (US) LLC
21.5 km
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AntiqueModern Tucson
21.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Station Pub & Grill
12.2 km
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Li'l Abner's Steakhouse
12.4 km
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Casa Marana Beer · Wine · Spirits • Pizza
13.5 km
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Monsoons Tap & Grill
15.7 km
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Dragoon Brewing Company
18.5 km
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The Edge - A Tucson Bar
19.3 km
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Short Rest Tavern
21.2 km
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The Jackrabbit Lounge
21.2 km
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Tommy’s Saloon
21.6 km
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Brodies Dark Horse Tavern
21.6 km
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Brother John's Beer Bourbon & BBQ
21.8 km
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Lazy V
21.8 km
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Tap & Bottle - North
22.2 km
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Bar Crisol/Exo
22.3 km
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Nightjar
22.3 km
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