National Park Travel Guide: Saguaro
While I can’t imagine many people randomly find themselves in Tucson given there isn’t much outside of the University (No Pity for the Kitty!!!) if you do find yourself down there, I recommend checking out Saguaro - pronounced Suh-WAH-row - National Park! If you’re just wanting a look around this is a great park for that- either from your car or on the trails, just be sure to drink lots and lots of water!
The Bajada Loop Drive: To ensure you can make this loop an actual loop be sure to to the drive counter clockwise starting by turning right from N Kinney Road onto Hohokam Road. When Hohokam ends at Golden Gate Road, turn left on to Golden Gate and continue it until the scenic loop ends at N Sandario Road. TIP: flash flooding in the area make parts of this road impassable even in a typically capable outdoor vehicle. If it has rained double check conditions and closures with ranger before getting on the loop.
Valley View Overlook Trail: This short, easy trail allows you to get up close with Saguaro cacti safely! This is a super easy walk and it you love plants this is your dream! It’s a pretty flat walk so it’s great for all ages.
Horseback Riding : While I personally haven’t done this I’ve heard great things about it! There are several groups that offer this locally so be sure to do your research and go with someone who really treats the animals right!
Signal Hill Petroglyphs : This super short trail will take you to a sweet little viewpoint with petroglyphs that are over 800 years old along the way!
Cactus Forest Drive : This is a drive-able 8-mile loop might be one way only but has amazing viewpoints on quite a few pull outs through out the drive.
Backpacking : There are a few different trailheads that can get you deep into the wilderness with full or multiple day hikes. There is camping available in a handful of approved spots but be sure you have ALL the supplies you need - especially water - with you when you head out!
Night Walks : Rangers in the park lead special night walks where you explore the park at night with some beautiful star gazing included!
Photography : whether you’re a pro or just doing it for fun sunrise and golden hour are the best times to pull the camera out! These are the times you’ll really be able to take in everything the desert has to offer!
If you’re planning on visiting multiple parks, purchase a parks pass! Also known as the American the Beautiful pass, the parks pass works at all National Parks & Forrests for admittance (usually anywhere from $10 - $25+) and quickly pays for its self. The America the Beautiful pass is $80 for the year so if you plan on visiting more than 2 - 4 parks in the year it is a wonderful investment with access to over 2,000 destinations. Plus, there are discounts for seniors, military and those needing ADA accommodations with varying prices or discounts.
Where is the Saguaro National Park Passport Stamp Station? Either of the Visitor Centers - East or West - have stamp stations available!
Pack Sunscreen & Layers : With unpredictable weather and very little vegetation offering shade doing both of these will save you sun burn, chills and more. Prepare for all the seasons when visiting here!
Leave No Trace - You might hear phrases like this throughout the Park & the community who appreciate it but it is a pinnacle of being a steward to our parks. Do your very best to make as little impact as possible on nature by keeping vehicles on paved areas, not disturbing or altering wildlife, cleaning up after yourself (and others), essentially - leave it better than you found it.
Be prepared for sand - like many desert parks there will be sand just about everywhere. Be sure to prep for this getting in your car. If you’re like me and sand drives you crazy consider changing shoes between the outdoors and your car.
Get extras - especially water - In the park there are not a ton of options for purchasing water or foods so be sure to do that before you get in the park! Be sure especially to have lots and lots of water - at least a gallon for each day you will be there.
DRINK WATER - at least one gallon of water per day is essential to replace what you will lose in sweat. The more active you are, the more you should drink.
Travel Prepared - if you plan on taking a hike or driving through the park be sure to stay on paved roads and carry extras like water, food and so on in case your car breaks down or some other emergency.
Be mindful - if at any time you feel dizzy, nauseous or develop a headache, get out of the sun and drink water and/or drinks with electrolytes. Do your best to lower your body temperature by dampening clothing. Heat stroke can be common, but it doesn’t have to be by being aware of your body. Be on the look out for other exhibiting these symptoms as well.
Be aware of flash floods - when it’s raining or has recently rained be sure to avoid canyons and when needed move to higher grounds. Be sure to check for signage where you’re driving as well to be alert for changing roads due to closures.
Tell someone what you’re doing & set up a check in time/date - any time you’re in the outdoors with spotty service be sure to share your plans with someone outside the park. By setting up a time/day check in you can be assured if emergency arises there will be someone to report you missing.
