Saguaro National Park
National Park · Arizona

Saguaro National Park

Photo: Saguaro Pictures · CC BY 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Saguaro National Park protects the nation's largest cacti in two districts on the east and west sides of Tucson. The Rincon Mountain District has Cactus Forest Loop Drive, while the Tucson Mountain District has dense saguaro stands, Signal Hill petroglyphs and great sunsets. Carry plenty of water, because shade is scarce and summer heat is extreme.

Good to know

Tickets
The park charges an entry fee per vehicle, covered by the America the Beautiful pass. Check nps.gov for current rates. No reservation is needed.
Time needed
Half a day per district; a full day to see both.
Best time
October to April for mild weather. Saguaros bloom in May and June.
Getting there
Both districts are about 25 minutes from central Tucson. Nearest major airport is Tucson International, about 30 minutes' drive; Phoenix is about 2 hours.

Where to stay nearby

Gateway towns with hotels and food, close to the park entrances:
Tucson, Arizona
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Saguaro National Park questions

Which side of Saguaro National Park is better?

The west side (Tucson Mountain District) has denser saguaros and better sunsets. The east side (Rincon Mountain District) has the scenic loop drive and more trails.

When do saguaros bloom?

Usually in May and June, with white flowers opening at night and lasting into the next day.

Where should I stay to visit Saguaro?

Tucson has plenty of hotels and resorts close to both districts. Camping is backcountry only, in the Rincon Mountains.

Nearby national parks