Signal Hill: A Window to the Past

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Explore ancient Hohokam rock art and panoramic desert views at Signal Hill in Saguaro National Park West, a window into Arizona's past.

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Signal Hill

Signal Hill, located in the Tucson Mountain District of Saguaro National Park, is a small, rocky hill featuring over 200 prehistoric Native American petroglyphs created by the Hohokam people between 550 and 1,550 years ago. A short trail leads to the summit, offering panoramic views of the Sonoran Desert and a glimpse into the lives of the region's early inhabitants.

A brief summary to Signal Hill

Tucson, Arizona, 85743, US
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Local tips

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon, especially during summer, to avoid the heat and see the petroglyphs in better light.
Bring binoculars for a closer look at the petroglyphs, as some are difficult to see from the trail.
Wear sturdy shoes and bring water, as the trail is rocky and exposed.
Combine your visit with a picnic at the Signal Hill Picnic Area for a relaxing day in the park.
Consider visiting the Red Hills Visitor Center to learn more about the park's history, ecology, and the Hohokam people.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Signal Hill Picnic Area

Signal Hill Picnic Area: A Portal to the Past

Mam-A-Gah Picnic Area

Mam-A-Gah Picnic Area: A Hiker's Oasis

Brown Mountain Trail Picnic Area and Trailhead

Brown Mountain Trail: A Sonoran Desert Hike

Getting There

Driving

From Tucson, take Kinney Road west towards Saguaro National Park West. Enter the park (fee required: $20 per vehicle). Follow Bajada Loop Drive to North Golden Gate Road, then turn onto Signal Hill Road. The Signal Hill Picnic Area and trailhead are at the end of this unpaved road. Parking is free at the trailhead. Note that Signal Hill Road is a graded dirt road.
Public Transport

While there isn't direct public transportation to Signal Hill, you can take a bus to a nearby location and then use a ride-sharing service. Take the bus to the closest stop on Kinney Road and arrange for a taxi or ride-share to the Signal Hill trailhead. A ride-sharing trip from the edge of the park to Signal Hill will cost approximately $15-$25. Park entrance fee still applies ($20 per vehicle).

Discover more about Signal Hill

Signal Hill, nestled within the Tucson Mountain District of Saguaro National Park West, is more than just a scenic overlook; it's a journey back in time. This small, distinct rocky hill, rising approximately 40 feet above the desert floor, is home to over 200 petroglyphs crafted by the Hohokam people, who inhabited southern and central Arizona from around 450 to 1450 AD. The Hohokam were skilled desert farmers, cultivating corn, beans, squash, and cotton. They also relied on local vegetation and hunted animals. Signal Hill served as a strategic lookout point, used for spotting game and potential invaders. The petroglyphs, etched into the dark patina of the rocks, depict a range of symbols, animals, and human figures, offering insights into their beliefs and daily life. While the exact meanings remain a mystery, the artwork provides a tangible link to the past. Among the most prominent designs is a large spiral, possibly used as a solar calendar, along with depictions of snakes, lizards, bighorn sheep and geometric patterns. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) recognized the site's significance in the 1930s, creating the Signal Hill picnic area and the trail leading to the top, enhancing visitor access. Today, visitors can follow this trail to admire the petroglyphs and the surrounding Sonoran Desert wilderness.

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