About
Saguaro National Park sits in southern Arizona, close to the city of Tucson, and protects a landscape shaped by the Sonoran Desert. It is best known for the giant saguaro cactus, the tall, branching plant that gives the park its name and has become one of the most recognisable symbols of the American Southwest.
What you will see
The saguaros here grow in forests that stand across the desert hills, their upright arms rising above the creosote, palo verde and other desert plants. The cacti are the park's defining feature, and they are striking up close as well as from a distance. Their size and age make them a focus for any visit, since these are plants that can live for more than 200 years.
Walking the trails
- The park offers miles of hiking trails that wind through the cactus forests, so you can choose a short stroll or a longer walk depending on your time and energy.
- Walking among the saguaros lets you see how the plants are spaced across the slopes and how the desert changes with the terrain.
- Because the landscape is open and the sun is strong, bringing water and planning your walk with care suits a desert visit.
Planning your visit
Saguaro National Park works well as a day out from Tucson, which gives visitors a base with places to stay, eat and explore beyond the park. Pairing a walk through the cactus forests with time in the surrounding city makes for a full introduction to the region. If you are drawn to desert landscapes, the park offers a clear and memorable way to see the Sonoran Desert in its natural form.
