Day hikes explore Saguaro NP's rich history

Petroglyphs on Signal Hill Trail

A number of great trails explore Saguaro National Park’s rich history, from Native American sites to mining and ranching sites.

Though humans probably have been in the Tucson area for at least 13,000 years, the earliest sign if habitation in the park dates to around 200 CE. At that time the Hohokam culture flourished in the region, growing corn, beans and squash while hunting deer and gathering cholla buds, palo verde buds, prickly pears, and saguaro fruit. They left pottery shards and petroglyphs in a variety of locations. The Hohokam culture, however, disappeared around 1450 CE. Several trails explore this heritage.

Spanish explorers and modern Native Americans encountered one another during the former’s expeditions in 1539-40. In 1692, the Spanish established San Xavier Mission at what is now Tucson then in 1775 constructed a fort, the Presidio San Agustín del Tucsón. The area became Mexican territory when the colony gained independence from Spain in 1821. Following the conclusion of the Mexican-American War in 1848, the United States took control of it.

Through the late 1800s and early 1900s, homesteaders, ranchers and miners slowly settled the Tucson area, including what later would become the park. Ruins from all are found scattered across the park’s two districts. Most noticeable are the mines. There are 149 abandoned mines in just the Tucson Mountain district, where prospectors and companies sought copper, gold, lead, silver, zinc, and other ores. Several mining sites can be reached via trails while the Freeman Homestead Trail heads to the ruins of a former ranch.

A movement to protect the area’s saguaros began in 1920 when members of the Natural History Society of the University of Arizona discussed creating a sanctuary for the iconic plant. Finally in spring 1933, U.S. President Herbert Hoover created Saguaro National Monument, the precursor to the park. It included portions of the Rincon Mountain District. During the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps worked on several projects in the park, including construction of Cactus Forest Loop Drive. One popular hike off the loop drive is the Javelina Rocks Trail. 

In 1961, President John F. Kennedy added 16,000 acres in the Tucson Mountains to the monument from land managed by Pima County. The new western district expanded in 1976 then again in 1994. A popular hike in the western section is the Valley View Overlook Trail. 

In 1994, President Bill Clinton signed legislation that elevated the monument’s east and west districts to national park status. More than a quarter century later, annual visitation to the national park has topped 1 million.

Saguaro NP trails offer chance to see wildlife

Javelinas can be seen near Javelina Rocks in the park's
Rincon Mountain (East) section.

Though most people
visit Saguaro National Park to see the majestic saguaro, there’s plenty
of interesting desert wildlife to see as well.

A few good trails where you stand a good
chance of seeing fauna include…

Arizona National
Scenic Trail -
Passage 9
The Arizona Trail, which runs the length of the Grand Canyon State from Mexico to Utah, is divided into 43 “passages” or sections. Passage 9 crosses Saguaro National Park’s eastern district, rambling 24.6 miles one-way through the park. The Rincon Mountains’ network of protected land creates an ideal environment for a diverse range of animal species. Among the larger mammals found in the area are black bears, mountain lions, deer and wolves, especially at the higher elevations.

Cholla Trail
The Cholla Trail in the Rincon Mountain (East) district is a great route for hikers of all skill levels. This 0.7-mile long trail can be accessed from its trailhead located at Loma Verde, just 0.3 miles north on Cactus Forest Drive. Along this level and scenic route, hikers will cross a dry wash, make several easy ascents and descents, and enjoy views of the pristine desert terrain in this corner of Saguaro National Park. It’s the perfect environment for hares and harmless lizards. You’ll also see plenty of saguaro cactus and the trail’s namesake. The Cholla Trail is one of many short paths in the low elevation northwest corner of the park, making it an ideal choice for casual hikes or as part of larger loop routes.

Desert Winds Trail
On the far west side of Tucson Mountain (West) district, this 1.8-mile trail starts at trailhead A-2 and traverses the park’s far-western desert flats. You may be lucky enough to catch sight of local wildlife – there have been sightings of fox amid the saguaro cacti. There are two trailheads – on North Sanders Road and North Sandario Road.

Douglas Spring Trail to Ernie’s Falls
The 6.6-mile round trip hike begins on the Douglas Spring Trail, heading through the bushy grassland of the higher desert elevations. At the four-way junction, go right/north on the Ernie’s Falls Trail. Watch for deer and harmless lizards, as well as the paw prints of bobcat and tracks of snakes in the sand. When flowers are in bloom, expect to see bees. The waterfall area is particularly attractive to wildlife.

Learn more about national park day hiking trails in my Best Sights to See at America’s National Parks series.

Saguaro NP trails offer wildflower viewing

The saguaro bloom makes for a showy display.

Several Saguaro
National Park trails deliver on wildflower displays during spring and following a summer rain. The west district’s flowers bloom sooner than the east side’s due to warmer temps and lower elevations.

Among the trails to explore are…

Cactus Wren Trail
At 1.5 miles, the trail crosses crosses rolling plains and dry washes near the Tucson Mountain (West) district’s western edge, offering visitors a picturesque landscape of towering saguaros, prickly chollas, vibrant palo verde trees, and mesquite. The trailhead is at the Signal Hill picnic area. You can complete a 4-mile loop be going on the Manville Trail, which circles back around to reconnect with the Cactus Wren.

Desert Discovery Nature Trail
Nestled within the west district, the 0.4-mile long lollipop trail is conveniently located just north of the Red Hills Visitor Center on N. Kinney Road. The trail is paved and flat, making it perfect for hikers of all abilities. In addition to wildflowers, take in the breathtaking views of the Tucson Mountain on the horizon as you amble along this trail with your furry friend in tow (as long as they’re leashed, of course). Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for informative signs that detail the desert ecology around you.

Desert Ecology Trail
A number of flowering plants can be found on the 0.3-mile lollipop trail in the park’s eastern Rincon Mountain district just off of popular Cactus Forest Drive. The wide, paved trail loops through the desert, following the Javelina Wash part of the way. Barrel cactus, chain fruit cactus, creosote, mesquite, palo verde, prickly pear cactus, teddy bear cholla, and of course saguaro line the route. It’s an excellent walk for young children to experience and learn about desert ecology.

Douglas Spring Trail to Ernie’s Falls
The 6.6-mile round trip starts on the Douglas Spring Trail, heading through the bushy grassland of the higher desert elevations in the east district. At the four-way junction, go right/north on the Ernie’s Falls Trail. Saguaros, prickly pear, mesquite, agave, pin cushion cacti and cholla are common the trail. During the rainy season, expect an abundance of flowers. The area around the waterfalls will be particularly verdant.

Freeman Homestead Trail
Located in the park’s eastern Rincon Mountain district, the Freeman Homestead Trail traverses a beautiful yet also inhospitable desert. The 1.1-mile trail is a walk through a classic Sonoran desert landscape of cholla, prickly pear and barrel cactus with barren mountain ranges lining the horizon. The best season to hike the trail is March through May when temperatures are pleasant. Summer will be unbearably hot and winter potentially cool. Many desert plants bloom in April and May, making for a colorful view. The trail is off of Cactus Forest Drive; park at the Freeman Homestead Trail parking lot on the road to the Javelina Picnic Area.

Ridge View Trail
The Ridge View Trail in the Rincon Mountain (East) district is a great choice for a short and rewarding hike. Just 1.1 miles long with an elevation gain of 330 feet, it offers a scenic route that climbs gently up through a bushy valley before veering slightly steeper over rocky terrain up to a ridgetop viewpoint where hikers can admire the sweeping south face of Tanque Verde Ridge. The wildflower season usually peaks in mid to late spring, making this trail gorgeous at that time of year, but it’s suitable for any season. A variety of cacti and aged saguaros can be found along the route. With convenient access from the Loma Alta trailhead on the park’s southern edge, far away from the main entrance off Old Spanish Trail, this quiet area makes an excellent location to experience nature at its best.

Best Saguaro NP desert flora trails - Part II

Several Saguaro National Park trails pass
a variety of Sonoran Desert flora.

Several Saguaro National Park trails give hikers the opportunity to see classic Sonoran Desert and other Western flora.

Among the trails to explore are…

Roadrunner/Panther Peak Wash Loop
Take in the breathtaking desert beauty of the Tucson Mountain (West) district on the 4.3-mile Roadrunner/Panther Peak Wash Loop. The trail traverses low elevation scrubbrush. Start at Cam-bohn Trailhead and follow the Roadrunner Trail north before continuing on the Panther Peak Wash Trail. To head back to your starting spot, take the Cam-boh Trail going west and you’ll find yourself right back at the trailhead. This loop is perfect for those seeking a moderate hike with rewarding views and is sure to leave visitors in awe of the vibrant desert landscape.

Scenic/Passey/Packrat Loop
A great adventure awaits those who take this 1.7-mile loop in Tucson Mountain (West) district. To reach the trailhead, from Tucson, first take Continental Reserve Loop and turn west onto Pima Farms Road. At Scenic Drive, go left and drive 0.2 miles to a paved circle where you can park — but not in or near Sanctuary Cove. From there, walk 0.2 miles south to the trailhead (A8), then take Scenic Trail to Passey Loop Trail to Scenic Loop for a journey full of spectacular views of Safford Peak that are not easily forgotten. For those who wish to explore further, Passey Loop Trail’s trailhead is marked by a large boulder along the fence, 0.37 miles south from the paved driving circle. During your explorations, you will encounter common desert vegetation such as saguaros and yuccas among others from the Sonoran Desert’s diverse collection of flora and fauna — making this short hike all the more special!

Shantz Trail
Spanning a length of 4.8 miles, the Shantz Trail is located in the Rincon Mountain (East) district, its trailhead at Wildhorse along Speedway Boulevard. With an elevation change of only 50 feet, this path offers a satisfying walk for recreation seekers looking for smooth terrain through cactus groves. Incorporating other trails around it, hikes of various lengths are possible; prominent intersections include Mica View, Cactus Forest, Loma Verde, and Kennedy trails. As the nearest route from the park boundary’s northwest corner, the Shantz Trail offers an accessible approach point to loop hikes and uncovering some of the natural beauty the district have to offer.

Squeeze Pen Trail
With its trailhead located 0.2 miles north of Loma Verde along the Cactus Forest Drive, the Squeeze Pen Trail is a great getaway for hikers looking to experience the beauty of Rincon Mountain (East) district. The 2.5-mile trail heads through a mesquite forest usually not found in this section of the park. The trail also offers incredible views of the northwest section of the park due to its higher elevation. Starting from its trailhead at Loma Verde, the trail veers north down a dry wash past a junction with the Pink Hill Trail until it reaches another intersection with the Wentworth and Kennedy trails. From there, those wishing to explore further east should take the Carrillo Trail before heading toward Three Tank Trail, which leads to Douglas Spring by way of a backcountry path. Be aware of the numerous criss-crossing paths that wind through saguaros in this area.

Tanque Verde Ridge Trail
Hikers can experience all five of Saguaro National Park’s environments on the Tanque Verde Ridge Trail. The 13.8-mile round trail is in the Rincon Mountain (East) district. backcountry. The Rincon Mountain district consists of five distinct environments. They shift by elevation. Desert scrub, such as fourwing saltbush and brittlebrush, sits at the lowest elevations. Go a little higher, and the scrub gives way to a desert grassland. Just above that is an oak woodland. Beyond that is a pine-oak woodland, a transition to the environment at the park’s highest elevations, the pine forest. The trailhead is off of Cactus Forest Drivel turn into the Javelina Picnic Area and park at the lot at the road’s end.

Thunderbird Trail
The trail, in the Tucson Mountain (West) district, offers a range of inspiring loops, varying from 3 to 14 miles. A climb around the mountain and eventually its descent to lower hills make for a truly breathtaking experience. On exploring the trail, hikers are welcomed to sights of magnificent local flora and fauna. The rugged path leads through geometric formations of saguaros, mesquite trees, and paloverdes scattered through the eastern foothills. Beginning a few hundred feet from Camino del Cerro parking lot adjacent to Sweetwater, Thunderbird’s wide dirt singletrack makes it ideal for biking adventures as well as leisurely strolls. You will get the chance to encounter interesting geology too. Signing the register at the trailhead is highly recommended.

Vertical Cliffs Short Loop
If you’re looking for a trail that boasts stunning views amid desert fauna, the Vertical Cliffs Short Loop in the Tucson Mountain (West) district is a great option. With a distance of 2.6 miles, this trail offers a moderate challenge and beautiful sights along the way. Access the trail by taking Belmont Road off of Silverbell Road and keep an eye out for a gated road on the left. After parking in front of the gate, you’ll hit the Belmont Trail, which runs alongside natural gas pipelines and powerlines. From there, you’ll explore the Vertical Cliffs Trail, the Veterans Trail, and the Animal Wash Trail before looping back to the Belmont Trail. Cross desert terrain and take in views of Picture Rocks Peak, Safford Peak, and Wasson Peak. As a bonus, you’ll spot an Aermotor windmill in the wash to the west of the trail and pass by the Old Yuma Mine along the way.

Wentworth Trail
The Wentworth Trail is a great spot for hikers and nature-lovers alike. It’s 3.3 miles long, with an elevation change of 100 feet from start to finish. It starts at the east end of Speedway Boulevard at the Wildhorse Trailhead and generally runs west-east through the Rincon Mountain (East) district’s northwest corner. You’ll find yourself on an old airstrip, now overgrown with prickly pear and creosote. A wash lies ahead, where you’ll need to make your way through before coming across an area covered in thick mesquite. Along the way, there are nine other intersections for hikers to explore before they inevitably end up back at the Shantz and Douglas Spring trails.

Read Part I of this article.

Best Saguaro NP desert flora trails - Part I

Several Saguaro National Park trails pass a variety of Sonoran Desert flora.

Several Saguaro National Park trails give hikers the opportunity to see classic Sonoran Desert and other Western flora.

Among the trails to explore are…

Bajada Wash Trail
The 1.7-mile trail in the Tucson Mountain (West) district and offers a unique experience of passing typical low elevation desert scrub, such as fourwing saltbush and brittlebrush. The curved trail follows a dry streambed, providing an elevation change of 220 feet from its starting point at the Sus picnic area on a spur of Hohokam Road, to where it rejoins Hohokam Road just south of Apache Peak. This moderately challenging hike is suitable for most levels and will be appreciated by all exploring this area’s diverse flora, with a few chances to observe distant views due to mountains that mostly surround it on both sides.

Cactus Forest Trail
Day hikers can explore classic Sonoran Desert flora on the Cactus Forest Trail. The trail runs 5 miles with 150 feet elevation change in the park’s Rincon Mountain (East) district. The trail is off of Cactus Forest Drive; park in the pullouts at the southern Cactus Forest Trailhead. Starting in a mesquite grove, the path ventures northeast with a mountain rising in the distance. The trail is moderately wide and made of hardpacked dirt, perfect for walking or hiking.

King Canyon Trail
Day hikers can experience classic Sonoran Desert vegetation – ocotillo, prickly pear cactus and saguaro – at the lower elevations of the King Canyon Trail in the park’s Tucson Mountain (West) section. The 7-mile round trip trail climbs to Wasson Peak (following a turn onto the Hugh Norris Trail) and gains 1833 feet along the way.

Mesquite Trail
The Mesquite Trail is a level track located in the Rincon Mountain (East) district, beginning from the Loma Verde trailhead along Cactus Forest Drive and accessible from the Mica View point. The one-mile trail begins in a grove of mesquite. It connects the Cactus Forest and Loma Verde pathways, branching west from the latter and running at close proximity to the one-way loop drive before veering northwest across a dry wash to reach its junction with the former. From there, hikers can continue to make their way toward the Mica View Trailhead, which sits half a mile ahead.

Mica View Trail
The trail is a popular 1-mile trek in the Rincon Mountain (East) district. Located off the beautiful Cactus Forest Drive, the trailhead is easily accessed from the nearby Mica View picnic area. The elevation change is approximately 40 feet, and visitors can look forward to a variety of cacti as they take in the awe-inspiring desert landscape. If looking for a scenic loop, turn onto the Shantz Trail before heading south along the Cactus Forest Trail to connect with the southern end of the Mica View Trail.

North Coyote Wash Trail
The trail in the Rincon Mountain (East) district crosses through low elevation desert scrubland. Measuring 2.9 miles in length and featuring an elevation change of 50 feet, this trail is a great option for hikers looking to explore but not overexert themselves. Head out on the adventure at the Camino Loma Alta trailhead and enjoy the views as you follow the minor path along a seasonal wash close to the south edge of the park. With the Ruiz Trail nearby, you can make it a 4-mile loop.

Rincon Creek Trail
The Rincon Creek Trail in the Rincon Mountain (East) district is a 7.4-mile point-to-point treat for anyone looking for an interesting and challenging journey through lush cactus terrain. Starting from the X9 Ranch, hikers will climb 3056 feet and eventually make it to Happy Valley Saddle at 6111 feet. Unfortunately, access is limited due to the gated road leading up to the trailhead, so visitors have no choice but to start their hike at Happy Valley Saddle and head down. This trail can be combined with Manning Camp Trail as part of a longer expedition or loop and opens up access to the largest water body within the national park. Some of the attractions along this magnificent route include mesquite, willow, cottonwood trees plus plenty of birds and other desert creatures to be spotted by keen eyes watching out keenly.

Read Part II of this article.

Great vista trails abound at Saguaro NP

Valley View Overlook Trail

With small mountain ranges rising out of the desert floor, Saguaro National Park is an ideal place for a great vista. Often the vistas show a saguaro forest stretching into the horizon or allow you to see the nearby city of Tucson and beyond.

Some great hikes to that lad to great vistas at the park include…

Cactus Wren/Signal Hill/Manville Loop
Located in the Tucson Mountain (West) district, this loop is the perfect experience for day hikers. Spanning 4.3 miles long, the loop features the Signal Hills Trail, a popular route for viewing true petroglyphs along with sweeping views of northern Tucson Valley. Of course, one doesn’t want to miss out on a jaunt along the Cactus Wren Trail, followed by a climbs over Manville Hill with remarkable views along the way. Finally hikers will adventure back down to the trailhead.

Hugh Norris Trail Big Loop
Located in the Tucson Mountain (West) district, this is a great trail to explore if you’re looking for a real challenge. At 6.6 miles long, it’s not for the faint-hearted but those who take on this trail will be rewarded with some of the most stunning views anywhere around. Starting from the trailhead, work your way up the ridgeline on the Hugh Norris Trail before descending down the Sendero Esperanza Trail and then onto Dobe Wash Trail and Bajada Wash Trail before rejoining Hugh Norris at the trailhead again.

King Canyon Trail
The 7-mile round trip trail heads to Wasson Peak, the highest point in the the park’s Tucson Mountain (West) portion, offering great views of Tucson. The trailhead is on North Kinney Road near the Red Hill Visitor Center. The trail gains 1833 feet of elevation. To avoid the dangerous summer, only do this trail October through April.

Sendero Esperanza Trail
The trail in the Tucson Mountain (West) district spans a length of 3.1 miles with an elevation change of 750 feet. Starting from the northern trailhead, opposite the Ez-Kim-In-Zin backcountry picnic area, it follows an old vehicle track for 1.7 miles before ascending to the top of a ridge on a short and steep incline that leads to Hugh Norris Trail junction. Here begins a longer but smoother descent, taking hikers past Gould Mine down into King Canyon, 0.9 miles away from the main road. Several switchbacks along the hillside lead you back up to Hugh Norris Trail junction, where some take in the ridgeline scenery before heading back to their starting point at Golden Gate Road.

Sweetwater Trail
This 9.3-mile route also heads to Wasson Peak, the highest point in the park’s western portion. In addition to the top notch views of Tucson at the peak, you’ll enjoy great views of the preserve to the north. The trailhead starts outside of the park at the end of West el Camino del Cerro. When the path connects with the King Canyon Trail, take the latter right/northwest, then turn right/northeast onto the Hugh Norris Trail to reach the summit.

Tanque Verde Ridge Trail
Great views of the Tucson basin await at the summit of Tanque Peak. Take the Tanque Verde Ridge Trail about 9 miles (one-way) to the 7040 feet in the park’s in the Rincon Mountain (East) district. The trailhead is at the Javelina Picnic Area off of Cactus Forest Drive.

Turkey Key Trail
Mica Mountain, standing at 8,666 feet, is the highest point in the eastern Rincon Mountain district. Accessing Mica Mountain involves a backpacking journey. As you ascend via the Heartbreak Ridge Trail from the Turkey Key Trail, you will pass through the national park and encounter the striking Man Head Rock, offering stunning panoramic views.

Valley View Overlook
Day hikers can head to a vista of one of Arizona’s densest populations of saguaro cactus on the Valley View Overlook Trail. The 0.8-mile round trip trail sits in the Tucson Mountain (West) district. It’s flat and can easily be traversed by children. The trailhead is off of Hohokam Road. At the ridge’s top is a bench from where you can enjoy fantastic views – a sea of saguaro in Avra Valley to the south with Picacho Peak beyond it. You’re at about 2660 feet above sea level. The summit also is a fantastic spot for watching sunsets. Unlike the taller peaks, getting back to your vehicle in the dark will be much easier as well.

Wild Dog Trail
Set in a backdrop of rugged desert terrain, this trail in the Tucson Mountain (West) district offers hikers an alluring escape into the wild. Featuring a round trip distance of 1.8 miles and an elevation change of 230 feet, visitors can follow it from the trailhead along the southern section of Hohokam Road up to Valley View Trail before making their way to Wild Dog Trail. At the end of this scenic journey lies the junction of Golden Gate Road and a turnoff to Signal Hill picnic area, where one can also opt for a 2.3-mile loop back to the trailhead. There’s surely something special about standing atop Apache Peak and drinking in sweeping views of Avra Valley while trekking through verdant vegetation – Wild Dog Trail is certainly worth braving!

Saguaro NP abounds in sunset/rise trails

Sunset at Saguaro National Park

At Saguaro National Park, the dusty desert air can make for fantastic sunsets while the clear crisp morning air delivers equally excellent sunrises. A silhouetted saguaro or mountain adds to the magic of any photo taken at dawn or dusk.

Some top trails to see sunsets and sunrises include:

Desert Winds Trail
On the far west side of Tucson Mountain (West) district, the Desert Winds Trail is an unparalleled destination for adventurous hikers. The 1.8-mile trail starts at trailhead A-2 and traverses the park’s far-western desert flats. It is a great opportunity to witness the beautiful sunset over a majestic cacti backdrop – the saguaro cacti that thrive in this region are particularly stunning at sunset.

Hugh Norris Trail
Day hikers can enjoy beautiful Arizona sunsets on this 7.7-mile round trip trail in the park’s western Tucson Mountain district. Sunsets generally are better in the park’s western than eastern section, as mountains and city lights tend to degrade the latter’s view of the sky. The reverse is true for sunrises. Getting high on a ridgeline, which the Hugh Norris traverses, offers the best views. Though the trail can be taken to Wasson Peak, the highest point in the western section, the hike here describes the trail to just Amole Peak, the second tallest summit on the ridge. The higher Wasson Peak behind you nicely blocks the glow of Tucson’s lights, and going to Amole means less walking in the dark after the sun sets. The trailhead is off of the gravel Hohokam Road.

Javelina Rocks
The half-billion-year-old Javelina Rocks is a great spot to watch sunsets. The outcroppings rise above the desert floor, allowing you to see the setting sun’s long shadows across the saguaros. A trailhead for the rocks is off of Cactus Forest Drive in the eastern Rincon Mountain (East) district. Get there early to ensure you have a parking space and time to climb one of the two larger outcroppings, which offer more solitude.

Sweetwater Trail
Hiking the Sweetwater Trail in the Tucson Mountain (West) district is a great way to take in the beautiful views and explore the amazing wildlife of Saguaro National Park. Starting from the West end of Camino del Cerro, this 6.8 mile out and back trail follows a ravine for much of its 3.4 miles before reaching an elevation change of 950 feet. Once at the ridge, hikers can continue toward King Canyon Trail junction for an additional 2.3 miles if desired. The east-facing slopes make it a great spot for taking gorgeous photographs of the sunrise. Those wishing to tackle this adventure should be prepared with appropriate gear and plenty of water.

Tanque Verde Ridge Trail
Great views of the sun setting over the Tucson basin await along the ridge of and summit of Tanque Peak. The trail can be hiked to 9 miles (one-way) on the Tanque Verde Ridge Trail all the way to the 7040 feet in the park’s in the Rincon Mountain (East) district. Even if not going to the summit, carry flashlights for the dark hike back. The trailhead is at the Javelina Picnic Area off of Cactus Forest Drive.

Valley View Overlook Trail
Located in the Tucson Mountain (West) district is a great place to watch beautiful sunsets. The small parking lot is perfect for the twilight show, as it offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, which boasts one of the park’s highest densities of saguaro cactus. It’s a great spot for families with small children, as the 0.8-mile round trip trail is flat and easy to traverse.

Great trails to see saguaros at Saguaro NP

Saguaro National Park

Saguaro National Park is so vast that unless you spend years there, you won’t see all it offers. So when you have only a few days at best to visit the park, what are the absolute must-hike trails to see the iconic saguaro?

Deer Valley Loop
Day hikers can walk through a forest of saguaro cactus on the Deer Valley Loop near Tucson. The roughly 3.5 miles route at the park’s Rincon Mountain (East) section consists of several connecting trails. As a number of other trails crisscross this area, the route easily can be shortened or lengthened. The loop described here, however, tends to give the most scenic views. The best season to hike the loop is March through May when temperatures are pleasant. Summer will be unbearably hot and winter potentially cool. Many desert plants bloom in April and May, making for a colorful view. To reach the trailhead, from the junction of Interstate 10 and Speedway Boulevard in Tucson, take the latter east. This heads to the north side of Saguaro National Park East. Park in the pullout at the Wildhorse Trailhead on the road’s right/south side.

Encinas Trail
Situated in the picturesque Tucson Mountain (West) district, the trail offers hikers a 3.5-mile journey with an elevation change of 600 feet. Primarily an abandoned vehicle track, the trail heads across open cactus plains to the north of Apache Peak before eventually intersecting with Manville Trail close to Sandario Road. Although there is relatively little variation in scenery throughout this section of path compared to other areas, hikers can use the western end as a shortcut option when exploring nearby routes like Cactus Wren/Manville loop. The trailhead is located along Golden Gate Road, near Ez-Kim-In-Zin picnic area.

Hope Camp Trail
The 2.8-mile trail in the Rincon Mountain (East) district starts at the north end of Camino Loma Alta trailhead, which is a lesser used access point. It traverses an old vehicle track and is surrounded by bushy land and some riparian areas with robust saguaros. After 1.25 miles hiking along this trail, you will pass two abandoned cattle stations – Hope Camp and Deer Camp, that latter of which is also this path’s end point. You also can connect to other trails from there, such as Coyote Wash, Ruiz and Quilter that form part of the Arizona Trail cross-state route. At Hope Camp, you’ll be able to enjoy the great views of the surrounding hills while taking the short 0.4-mile trek across level field terrain on the North Hope Trail.

Loma Verde Trail
The Loma Verde Trail offers an opportunity to explore the Rincon Mountain (East) district in breathtaking fashion, as it meanders through stunning landscapes of saguaro cacti. Spanning 2.2 miles and only changing 120 feet in elevation, the trail presents a mild challenge appropriate for visitors of all levels. Starting from Cactus Forest Drive, the trailhead at Loma Verde provides an easy access point, and hikers can enjoy connecting to a network of intersecting trails. With a variety of loop options available – the shortest at 3 miles – Loma Verde Trail is sure to delight.

Manville Trail
A 2.4-mile trail with an elevation change of 200 feet, visitors can expect to witness stunning desert scenery in the Tucson Mountain (West) district. While most of the path is within range of traffic noise, hikers are still rewarded with striking views and a challenging journey. The trailhead can be accessed at two points along Sandario Road as well as a spur off Golden Gate Road leading to the Signal Hill picnic area. You can extend the hike to 4 miles by also hiking the Cactus Wren Trail, which forms a loop with the Manville.

Sendero-Esperanza Trail Big Loop
The 8.5-mile trail in Tucson Mountain (West) district is an attractive destination for trail runners and hikers alike. Saguaros grow all along the south-facing slopes on the trail. The first mile sports 220 feet of elevation gain before it switchbacks up onto the hillside. From there, you can complete the full loop by following Hugh Norris Trail, crossing Hohokam Road before going right/northeast onto Bajada Wash Trail, then Dobe Wash Trail, and finally Sender-Esperanza Trail back to the trailhead. All told, this route offers a good look at some of the area’s principal highlights while combining some solid elevation gain and miles.

Valley View Overlook Trail
One of the park’s densest populations of saguaro cactus grows at Valley View in the park’s Tucson Mountain (West) district. From the overlook, a dense sea of saguaros spreads out before you. The 0.8-mile round trip trail is flat and can easily be traversed by children. Its trailhead is off of Bajada Loop Drive between the Hugh Norris Trail and Golden Gate Road.

Rock formations highlight Saguaro NP trails

Ernie's Falls

While most of Saguaro National Park is either flat desert or seemingly bare mountain, there are a few interesting rock formations, such as rock-colored hills and tiny waterfalls.

Here are a few great hikes to see those interesting rock formations.

Douglas Spring Trail to Bridal Wreath Falls Trail and Ernie’s Falls Trail
If you’re on the hunt for a scenic hike that includes picturesque waterfalls, then the Douglas Spring Trail is a must-see. This hike boasts two beautiful waterfalls, Ernie’s Falls and Bridal Wreath Falls. After heavy rainfall or snowmelt, several other waterfalls can be seen from the water flowing down the Rincon Mountain. Bridal Wreath Falls is the more popular end point for hikers, and it’s well worth the 5.6-mile round trip. To reach the trailhead, from Interstate 10 in Tucson take East Speedway Boulevard east. Outside of town, the road dead ends at the trailhead.

Javelina Rocks Walkabout
Day hikers can scramble over boulders more than a half-billion years old at Javelina Rocks. There’s no official trail at the rock formation, but several narrow paths circle five large rock outcroppings. You easily can put on a half-mile of walking at the sight in the park’s eastern Rincon Mountain District. To reach the trailhead, from Interstate 10 in Tucson exit onto East Speedway Boulevard and head east. Turn right/south onto Freeman Road then left/south onto Old Spanish Road. Next, enter the park by turning left/east onto Cactus Forest Drive. The park’s eight-mile road eventually becomes a one-way. A parking pullout for Javelina Rocks is between the six and seven mile markers. The outcroppings are Santa Catalina gneiss, formed some 541 million years ago when a tectonic plate begin to split apart. As it did, land heading in one direction slipped downward at an angle against the plate moving in the other direction. This friction resulted in high temperatures and pressures that created the gneiss deep underground.

Pink Hill Trail
A 3.4-mile round trip located in the Rincon Mountain District, the trail is easily accessed from the Broadway Trailhead. Taking the Shantz Trail east for 0.4 miles will lead to the signed intersection with Pink Hill Trail where hiking begins along an undulating path through Javelina, Loma Verde and Monument washes. At roughly 40-50 feet above the surrounding desert, tourists also can observe Pink Hill and its peculiar rust-colored sides (not pink as some have suggested). The Hill earned its alternate name of Coffee Pot Hill when local cowhands found it a convenient place to pause and drink coffee while keeping watch on their cattle below.

Wildhorse Trail
The Wildhorse Trail in the Rincon Mountain (East) district is a popular destination for hikers looking for an easy and rewarding trek. Starting from only 100 yards west of the Douglas Spring Trailhead on East Speedway Boulevard, this scenic journey passes through gorgeous landmarks and hidden gems. For many visitors, the first thing they see would be the horse trailers that are usually parked near the trailhead as that’s where all the horses come into the park. Compared to other trails, Wildhorse is relatively flat, but travelers still can get panoramic views of natural wonders during their hike. A small seasonal waterfall also sits at the trail’s end. In addition, one can pick up some light celebrity history by viewing Paul McCartney’s former house, which stands beyond the pink buildings of Tanque Verde Guest Ranch. It was there that his first wife Linda passed away from cancer in 1998.

Two trails head to Saguaro NP's high points

The view of Tucson at night from Wasson Peak.

If peakbagging Saguaro National Park, there are two must-do summits to scale.

Wasson Peak is the highest point in the

park’s Tucson Mountain (West) section while

Mica Mountain is the highest point in both the Rincon Mountain (East) section and the park. While Wasson Peak is

an solid day hike, you may want to take on Mica Mountain as an overnight backpacking trip.

Wasson Peak
Day hikers can summit the highest peak in the park’s Tucson Mountain (West) section via the King Canyon Trail.

The 7-mile round trip King Canyon Trail climbs to Wasson Peak, where you can enjoy great views of the park and Tucson. It’s not the highest peak in the park; that honor goes to Mica Mountain in the eastern Rincon Mountain district. Getting to Mica Mountain, however, is more than a day hike for all but the hardiest.

Multiple routes lead to Wasson Peak, but the King Canyon Trail is the most direct. You’ll gain about 1833 feet of elevation. As the summer heat is intense, only do this trail October through April.

To reach the trailhead, from Interstate 10 in Tucson, exit onto West Ina Road and head west. At North Wade Road, turn left/south. When the road veers west, it naturally becomes West Picture Rocks Road and enters the park. Next, go left/south onto North Sandario Road then left/east onto North Kinney Road. Drive past Red Rock Visitor Center to the trailhead. The parking lot has space for about 15 vehicles so fills up quickly during the cooler months and on weekends.

Wasson Peak tops out at 4639 feet. From it, you can see Tucson to the east with the Santa Catalina and Rincon Mountain beyond. Mt. Wrightson in the Santa Rita mountains and Kitt Peak are to the south. Amole Peak, the nearest tall summit, at 4387 feet, is to the west. On a clear day, you can see about 80 miles.

Mica Mountain
The highest point in the eastern Rincon Mountain section is Mica Mountain, which tops out at 8,666 feet. Getting to Mica Mountain, however, is a backpacking trip.

There are three main routes to the peak; most hikers agree the easiest one is from the southwest via the Turkey Creek Trail. It runs 16-miles round trip.

To reach the trailhead, take Interstate 10 east of Tucson. Exit north onto Mescal Road (Exit 297). You’ll drive into the Coronado National Forest. In Miller Canyon, go right/northeast onto E. Happy Valley Road (F.R. 35). Then turn left/north onto F.R. 4408, which takes you to the trailhead. You’ll need a 4WD vehicle to negotiate this last forest road.

Expect the journey to take about 5 to 7 hours one-way, which means you should be prepared to spend anywhere from 10 to 11 hours out in the wilderness, round trip. While you’ll want to dress comfortably, don’t forget to consider the temperature changes that come with elevation gain. Higher up, it can be noticeably cooler, especially in spring and fall, so make sure you’re prepared with layers.

Remember to bring plenty of water, snacks and maybe even a meal for the journey.

A good spot to stay in backpacking is Manning Camp. Its campsites feature fire rings with a pit toilet nearby.

Saguaro trails lead to Native American sites

Signal Hill Trail

Artifacts representing hundreds of years of Native American habitation can be found throughout Saguaro National Park.

Here are a few excellent trails to see to them.

Abington Long Loop
The trail spans just under five miles and takes you through some truly breathtaking scenery in the Tucson Mountain (West) district. To access the trailhead, park at the small turnout on Abington Road off of Belmont Road and walk about 0.2 miles up to Trailhead A7. From there, take Abington Trail to Gila Monster Trail to Cactus Canyon to Coyote Pass and then follow the remainder of the Abington Trail to finish off your hike. One of the unique features of this trail is a sandy wash, where you’ll come across a natural rock dam that holds some impressive Hohokam Morteros, or Native American grinding tool depressions. Don’t miss the old windmill with a stock tank just below the rock dam too. For a shorter 2.4-mile version of the hike, take Abington Trail to Vertical Cliffs Trail to Veterans Trail to Abington Trail and return to Trailhead A7.

King’s Canyon Wash Trail
King’s Canyon Wash Trail is a real hidden gem located in the Tucson Mountain (West) district. The trail stretches for 2.2 miles and features not one but two incredible petroglyph locations. The first spot is a rock in the canyon bed covered with desert varnish, where you can see a few petroglyphs. Further along, you’ll encounter an entire wall covered in dense petroglyphs. This dry river bed trail is prone to flooding, so avoid it during wet weather. If the path is still dry, it’s easy to navigate and immensely enjoyable too. As you hike down, prepare for some fun jumps off a series of small dry waterfalls. The trailhead is conveniently located on Kinney Road.

Picture Rocks/Prophecy Wash Loop
For a scenic hike within the Tucson Mountain (West) district, visitors should take the 7.6 mile Picture Rocks/Prophecy Wash Loop. Petroglyphs can be see on rocks along the way. To begin, follow Cam-boh Trail east and then Ironwood Forest Trail south, before veering left or southwest onto Picture Rocks Wash Trail. Continuing along this winding course, you’ll eventually reach Prophecy Wash Trail, which takes hikers back to the original trailhead from which they started. This also is an excellent hike for anyone looking to enjoy stunning desert views.

Signal Hill Trail
Day hikers can see more than 200 ancient petroglyphs on the Signal Hill Trail in the national park. The 0.3-mile round trip is less a hike than a stroll into prehistory. Petroglyphs of spirals, circles and a variety of other geometric shapes were created by Native American groups that resided in the desert between 500-1100 A.D. Many consider the trail to be the best in the park to see petroglyphs. The trail sits in the park’s Tucson Mountain (West) district. The trailhead is off of Signal Hills Road; the gravel road ends in a turnaround where you can park.

Day trails explore Saguaro NP's geology

Javelina Rocks

Saguaro National Park sits in the Sonoran Desert, which stretches 100,000 square miles across northern Mexico and the southwestern United States. It is centered on the Gulf of California, ensuring the desert enjoys subtropical warmth in winter. Rainfall is rare, with an average of 3.5 inches falling annually.

Most of the national park consists of basins and ranges. In the park’s western district, most of the terrain is flat dessert except for the southcentral area where the Tucson Mountains rise. In contrast, the Rincon Mountains cover most of the park’s eastern section with only the western and southwestern edges flat desert.

For most of Earth’s history, the area now making up Saguaro National Park was underwater, a great contrast to its aridity today. Around 1.7 billion years ago, it likely was near the boundary of two tectonic plates, where rocks heated into magma then cooled and solidified into Pinal Schist. The park’s oldest rocks, which can be seen off of Cactus Forest Loop Drive in the park’s eastern Rincon Mountain District, is this schist. Nearby on the Tanque Verde Ridge are 1.4-billion-year-old altered granites. The ridge can be hiked on the aptly named Tanque Verde Ridge Trail. 

Around 600 million years ago, shallow seas covered the area. As rivers carried sediment into the sea and ancient shelled sea life died and floated to the sea floor, sandstone, limestone, and shale formed.

About 80 million to 30 million years ago, western North America underwent an era of mountain building. Volcanoes formed the Tucson Mountains about 70 million years ago, during the Age of Dinosaurs. When one volcano collapsed, it formed a caldera 12 miles wide; debris and lava since has filled it. Granite from the magma chamber that fed these volcanoes can be seen today at the Sus Picnic Area.

For the past 30 million years, the mountains and basin that Tucson sits in have been undergoing great change. The Earth’s crust from northern Mexico to Oregon is thin and so pulling apart along fault lines. As the crust stretches, the areas along fault lines drop in elevation, pushing up the harder, erosion-resistant rock next to it. The Tucson and Rincon Mountain in the park, we well as the Santa Catalina Mountains north of Tucson, all rose to their current height in this way.

This also has exposed the crystallized granite, known as Santa Catalina gneiss, in the Rincon Mountain district, most notably at Javelina Rocks. The same type of rock sits below the Tucson Mountain but has yet to reach the surface.

Other great geology-oriented trails to hike at Saguaro include:
• Ernie's Falls Trail (waterfall)
• King Canyon Trail (heads to Wasson Peak's summit) 
• Turkey Creek Trail (heads to Mica Mountain's summit)

Trails head to old mines in Saguaro NP

Gould Mine Trail

Saguaro National Park is loaded with relics and reminders of its mining past. A few of the better trails for seeing those old sights are:

Cactus Forest Trail
The 5.5-mile route located in the East Rincon Mountain district, with an elevation change of 250 feet, crosses through a flat desert cactus landscape and has turns that lead to several different trails including Cholla, Mica View, and Mesquite. This path gradually ascends and eventually reaches the north side of the Cactus Forest Drive after two miles. The route continues for 2.5 miles over slightly more uneven ground until reaching the south side of Freeman Road, which then descends for one mile back down into a dry wash below. The trail passes remains of two lime kilns used in the late 1800s; limestone, which occurs in the park in several places, was mined here to make mortar.

Gould Mine Trail
Day hikers can head to a relic of the early 1900s Arizona Copper Rush on the Gould Mine Trail. The 1.8-mile round trip hike sits in the park’s western Tucson Mountain district. It sports an elevation gain of just 300 feet. The trailhead is off of North Kinney Road just past the Red Rock Visitor Center. The colorful tailing pile – that is the rock the miners tossed away while mining – stand out just for their size. You can walk atop the pile, but stay away from the edges as they can give. A small stone cabin beside the trail also is interesting. This was an old powder house where dynamite was stored.

Ruiz Trail
The Ruiz Trail in Rincon Mountain (East) district offers an enjoyable and scenic 4.4-mile round trip hike with an elevation gain of 182 feet. Starting at the north end of Camino Loma Alta and accessible from either the Hope Camp Trail or North Coyote Wash Trail, hikers will ascend a ridge and be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape. Along the path, look out for saguaro cacti and other flora typical of the area that lend further interest to this trail. One lime kiln from the area’s mining days also can be seen along the trail.

Vertical Cliffs Short Loop
The Old Yuma Mine and stunning views await on this trail in the Tucson Mountain (West) district. With a distance of 2.6 miles, the loop offers a moderate challenge and beautiful desert scenery along the way. Access the trail by taking Belmont Road off of Silverbell Road.

Saguaro NP's best birdwatching trails

The saguaro cactus is a favorite perch of the cactus wren.

Birds can be seen throughout Saguaro National Park, but some spots are better than others either for spotting rare species or for seeing a diverse number of them.

Some of the better birding trails in the park include:

Desert Ecology Trail
Day hikers can see some of the national park’s most famous birds on the Desert Ecology Trail. The short 0.3-mile lollipop trail sits in the park’s eastern Rincon Mountain district just off of popular Cactus Forest Drive. It’s a perfect walk for young children to experience and learn about desert ecology. The saguaro is a good place to focus your attention if looking for birds. The plant is like an apartment building for native wildlife, providing homes to a variety of birds, such as the Harris’s hawk, Gila woodpecker, and the tiny elf owl.

Javelina picnic area
The opening section of the Tanque Verde Ridge Trail, especially at the Javelina Picnic Area, mark an excellent spot to see canyon wrens and black-chinned sparrows. The area in the park’s Rincon Mountain (East) district is slightly more verdant than the surrounding desert and so provides more opportunities for homes and food. A walk around the picnic area and the first 300 feet of the trail for a 0.2-mile round trip journey should yield some sightings.

Visitor Center Trail
In the Tucson Mountain (West) district, ash-throated flycatchers, Say’s phoebes, curve-billed thrashers, and Gila woodpeckers can be seen near the visitor center buildings. In the winter season, neotropical migrant species including hummingbirds, swallows, orioles, and warblers also can be seen. To see them, try this 0.37-mile trail circling the Red Hills Visitor Center off of North Kinney Road.

Tucson trail explores saguaro cactus forest

The saguaro grows only in southern Arizona and northern Sonora. NPS photo.

Deer Loop Trail map. Click for larger version.

Day hikers can walk through a forest of saguaro cactus on the Deer Valley Loop near Tucson.

The roughly 3.5 miles route at Saguaro National Park (East) consists of several connecting trails. As a number of trails crisscross this area, the route easily can be shortened or lengthened. The loop described here, however, tends to give the most scenic views.

The best season to hike the loop is March through May when temperatures are pleasant. Summer will be unbearably hot and winter potentially cool. Many desert plants bloom in April and May, making for a colorful view.

To reach the trailhead, from the junction of Interstate 10 and Speedway Boulevard in Tucson, take the latter east. This heads to the north side of Saguaro National Park East. Park in the pullout at the Wildhorse Trailhead on the road's right/south side.

Begin the loop by heading southwest on Wild Horse Canyon Trail. You'll pass the Shantz Trail on the right, an unnamed connector on the left, then the Creosote Trail on the right.

Growing up
Close to the road, you'll see small saguaro cactus still shorter than the shrubs they grow amid. The farther from the road you walk, though, and the saguaro quickly become much taller and are all around you.

An icon of the American West, these lords of the desert can grow up to 50 feet high and weigh several tons. With so little rainfall, decades are needed for the saguaro to reach its dominating size.

As approaching the Bajada Wash, one cool saguaro cactus to look for is one that's crested. Only about 1 in 10,000 saguaros are crested, biologists estimate. Near that sight, the Bajada Wash Trail comes in from the right and then after a bit departs to the left.

Saguaro cacti begin their lives by sprouting under small trees, such as the little leaf palo verde, growing only about an inch a year. They soon dwarf the tree and with taproots that reach a yard deep and almost 30 years in diameter, they kill the very tree that first sheltered them.

Saguaro flower
At 1 mile, the route reaches Garwood Trail. Go right/south onto it. You'll gradually head uphill.

The giant saguaro sometimes blooms only once every 35 years, so they must live an extremely long time for the species to survive. The typical saguaro stays on the earth for 150 years, but some at the national park are more than 200 years old.

Upon reaching the 1.5 mile mark, go right/west onto the Carrillo Trail. This will take you to a ridge overlooking a wash. Great views of Rincon Mountains to the southeast are to be had.

If hoping to visit when saguaro's pretty white flowers bloom, plan your hike for April through June. The flower opens during the night and closes in midafternoon.

Animal interactions
At 1.8 miles, the route comes to Deer Valley Trail. Go right/north onto it and continue downhill.

The saguaro's primary pollinators are honey bees, bats, and white-winged doves, but a variety of songbirds help as well. Pollination leads to ruby red fruits that ripen in June. Though each fruit has around 2000 seeds, only about 1 percent of them will germinate.

At 2.2 miles, the route reaches the ascent's bottom, where the Squeeze Pen Trail awaits. Take it right/northeast.

Several animals rely on the saguaro cactus not just for nourishment but as a home. The saguaro's sharp, regularly spaced thorns provide perfect protection for nests. Gila woodpeckers and gilded flickers will cut holes into the saguaro and upon moving in, other birds become squatters.

Horses and lizards
This leg of the trail passes the Bajada Vista Trail on the right. At 2.7 miles is the Vanover Trail junction; at it, continue straight-right/north onto the Kennedy Trail.

In addition to songbirds using saguaros, during any hike of this loop you're certain to see harmless small lizards darting about. Horse riders often will be about using the equestrian trails, giving you a feel of being in the Old West.

At 3.1 miles, the route arrives at the Shantz Trail junction. Turn right/northeast onto it and head back to the Wild Horse Canyon Trail, where you'll go left/north to the trailhead.

There's absolutely no shade along the loop, so if be sure to don sunscreen, sunglasses and sunhat. In addition, if caught in a storm do not stand near the saguaro, as it’s a natural lightning rod, having absorbed salt from the desert floor.

Tucson desert canyon trail heads to waterfall

Day hikers can see seven small waterfalls in a beautiful desert canyon at Coronado National Forest.

The 7-mile round trip Seven Falls Trail includes a stretch of the Bear Canyon Trail. The best time to hike the trail is late winter or early spring when snowmelt and heavy rains feed Bear Creek, though thanks to limestone springs there usually is some water even in summer.

To reach the trailhead, from Interstate 10 in Tucson, head east on East Speedway Boulevard. Turn left/north onto North Wilmot Road, which as it curves east naturally becomes E. Tanque Verde Road. after crossing Tanque Verde Wash, turn left/north onto North Bear Canyon Road. The road jags left then right and ends at the Bear Canyon Trailhead. Park in the spaces along the road.

The trail heads north across the desert. You’re on the North Bear Canyon Access, and may have to do some rock hopping to cross Bear Creek. As leaving the creek, you’ll notice a increasing number of saguaro as the landscape turns to desert scrub. Cholla and ocotillos abound as well.

After crossing a paved national forest road, at 0.4 miles you’ll reach Bear Canyon Trail #29. Go right/northwest onto it.

From there, you’ll descend into Bear Canyon. For part of the day, high foothills on the canyon’s south side leave the trail and Bear Creek in shadow, offering a cool respite.

You’ll pass the Jebus Cactus while in the canyon. A historical landmark, this may very well be the largest cactus you’ll ever see. It soars four stories high.

About 2.8 miles in, the Seven Falls Trail begins. The Bear Canyon Trail switchbacks up the foothill to the right/south while the Seven Falls Trail continues left-straight/northeast up the canyon.

Seven beautiful waterfalls that fall a combined 191 feet can be seen as Bear Creek jogs to the left/northwest. A pool that can be swam in forms below the second falls from the canyon bottom.

Another pool awaits higher up, and it’s deeper and less murky than the pool below the second falls. Getting there can be difficult, however, as the canyon narrows sharply, and you may not want to climb rocks or traipse through water.

Once you’ve taken in the sights, retrace your steps back to the trailhead.

You’ll want to bring water shoes or sandals as well as a trekking pole to help with your footing on the slick rocks and during creek crossings.

AERIAL MAP

Click for larger, printable version

Tucson trail heads into Sonora wilderness

Day hikers can take a safe dip into the Sonora Desert wilderness on the Gates Pass Trail at Tucson Mountain Park.

The 2.8-mile round trip hike runs close to a road, campground, and Old Tucson, a former movie production area turned theme park. Gates Pass Trail is a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience the area’s spectacular desert scenery.

To reach the trailhead, from Interstate 10 in Tucson, exit west onto West Speedway Boulevard. The highway naturally becomes W. Gates Pass Road. After entering the mountain park, turn right to Gates Pass Trailhead parking area, where there are plenty of spaces.

The trail leaves from the parking area’s northwest corner. It cuts through a saddle and descends into the desert valley.

Along the trail, visitors can enjoy magnificent views of saguaro cacti, mesquite bosques, and nearby Tucson Mountain. Keep an eye out for interesting rock formations, especially in the pass area.

At about 0.13 miles, the trail junctions with the Cheops Trail, which heads to W. Gates Pass Road. Continue right-straight/west. The trail begins to parallel the road here.

The rich Sonoran Desert ecosystem also offers hikers an opportunity to experience a variety of species within arm’s reach. You may encounter typical desert creatures such as lizards, as well as birds from the American kestrel to the greater roadrunner. The park also features a variety of plants including palo verde trees, cholla cacti, and various species of wildflowers.

The Rattlesnake Trail, another route leading to Gates Pass Road, junctions the main trail at about 0.56 miles. Go right-straight/west.

Gates Pass Trail is a great spot to watch sunsets. With the mountains at the pass blocking most of Tucson’s city lights, the trail gives you a little higher elevation to watch the sun cast its last glow of the day across the saguaro-studded desert.

Still, hikers should be aware that Gates Pass Trail has its dangers. The sun is especially intense in the desert, so hikers should be prepared with plenty of water and hats or other protective clothing when venturing onto the trail. Additionally, hikers may find themselves encountering rattlesnakes and Gila monsters during the warmer months, especially at dusk when they are most active.

Around 1.07 miles, the trail arrives at the drive for the Desert Discovery Center. Old Tucson is to the south and the Gilbert Ray Campground to the west.

You’ll reach the turnback point, the junction with the Cougar Trail at 1.4 miles. You can continue on, but that means crossing the busy road.

With its picturesque landscape and diverse wildlife, Gates Pass Trail is an unforgettable experience for hikers and backpackers alike. Whether hikers are looking to get a taste of the desert or explore some of Arizona’s best geology, this trail is sure to provide a memorable and safe adventure.

TOPO MAP

Click for a larger, printable version

Gorgeous sunsets await on Saguaro NP trail

A sunset colors the sky on the Hugh Norris Trail at Saguaro National Park.

Day hikers can enjoy beautiful Arizona

sunsets on the Hugh Norris Trail at Saguaro National Park.

The 7.7-mile round trip trail sits in the park’s western Tucson Mountains district. Sunsets generally are better in the park’s western than eastern section, as mountains and city lights tend to degrade the latter’s

view of the sky.

Getting high on a ridgeline, which the Hugh Norris traverses, offers the best views. Though the trail can be taken to Wasson Peak, the highest point in the western section, the hike here describes the trail to just Amole Peak. Though the second highest summit on the ridge, the higher Wasson Peak behind you nicely blocks the glow of Tucson’s lights – and going to Amole means less walking in the dark after the sun sets.

To reach the trailhead, from Interstate 10 in Tucson, exit onto West Ina Road and head west. At North Wade Road, turn left/south. When the road veers west, it naturally becomes West Picture Rocks Road and enters the park. Next, go left/south onto North Sandario Road then left/east onto North Kinney Road and finally left/northeast onto gravel Hohokam Road. The trailhead is in about 0.8 miles. Be forewarned that the parking area is small with space for about four vehicles, but there is a nearby pull-off on the road where you can park.

From the parking lot, the trail heads due east, starting at around 2575 feet elevation, circling around the base of a hill that is the westernmost edge of the small mountain range. Barrel cacti, cholla, echinocereus, opuntia, saguaros of all sizes and Schott’s agave surround you.

Ridgeline
Next the trail drops into and crosses a ravine then ascends toward the ridgeline via a few switchbacks. As you gain elevation, you’re treated to a variety of great vistas. Avra Valley is to the west, and the Santa Catalina Mountains to the northeast.

The trail soon crests a hill and reaches a saddle that offer great desert views to the north and south.

From there, the trail ascends along the edge of the ridgeline toward its top. The route generally avoids the peaks along the ridge, as their tops are too steep,

Watch for some of the old mine shafts that appear along the way. They are fenced off, and you should not try entering them, as they are unsafe.

At 2.7 miles, the path reaches a four-way junction with Sendero-Esperanza Trail.

Amole Peak
Next, continue on toward Amole Peak, which tops out at 4387 feet. At around 3.85 miles, the trail runs along the peak’s south side, where there are plenty of great spots just below it to catch the sunset from around 4215 feet. Some faint and steep paths do climb to the rocky top, which is the best spot to catch a sunrise.

As the sun sets, it illuminates the cloud bottoms in pink, mauve and apricot colors until that fades and the saguaros are just silhouettes. Eventually even they disappear as the stars pop out in the black sky.

Rather than view the sunset from Amole, you can continue on to Wasson Peak, which at 4693 feet, offers the highest vantage on the ridge. Wasson is in 1.05 miles, making the hike 9.8 miles round trip.

The trail is named after Hugh Norris, a former Tohono O’odham Indians police officer.

There’s no shade along the way, so be sure to don sunscreen, sunglasses and hat for the way there. Do not hike the trail in summer, as the heat will be dangerous. Bring plenty of water, about 1.5 quarts per person per hour of hiking. Should thunderstorms appear on the horizon, turn back, as lightning strikes will be a hazard when hiking the ridge. You’ll want headlamps or flashlights for the hike back.

TOPO MAP

Hugh Norris Trail. Click for larger version.

Saguaro NP hike leads to century-old mine

Tailings and ruins from the abandoned 1905-12 Gould Mine sit
in Saguaro National Park.

Day hikers can head to

a relic of the early 1900s Arizona Copper Rush on the Gould Mine Trail in Saguaro National Park.

The 1.8-mile round trip hike sits in the park’s western Tucson Mountains district. It sports an elevation

gain of just 300 feet.

To reach the trailhead, from Interstate 10 in Tucson, exit onto West Ina Road and head west. At North Wade Road, turn left/south. When the road veers west, it naturally becomes West Picture Rocks Road and enters the park. Next, go left/south onto North Sandario Road then left/east onto North Kinney Road. Drive past Red Rock Visitor Center to the trailhead. The parking lot has space for about 15 vehicles so fills up quickly during the cooler months and on weekends.

Sonoran Desert flora
Of the two trails at the parking lot, head left/northwest down the ravine. Upon reaching the wash, go left/south. Look for a trail across the wash ascending the ravine, and take that.

You’ll cross the base of a foothill over gently undulating terrain.

Eventually the trail descends in another ravine and runs along then parallels the usually dry streambed.

Standard Sonoran Desert plant life can be found along the trail – buckhorn cholla, creosote, ferocactus, hedgehog cactus, ironwood, jumping cholla, mammillaria, mesquite, ocotillo, saguaro, and teddy bear cholla.

The trail soon gains elevation, and the red and gray tailings of the mining operation come into view. After passing below the tailings, the trail curls back into the mine site by going left/west on the Sendero Esperanza Trail at the 0.8-mile mark.

Gould Mine
The colorful tailing pile – that is the rock the miners tossed while mining – stand out just for their size. You can walk atop the pile, but stay away from the edges as they can give.

A small stone cabin beside the trail also is interesting. This was an old powder house where dynamite was stored.

The 300-foot deep mine shaft is fenced-off and covered by an iron grille. A second gated shaft is downhill from the site. Don’t try to enter either shaft.

There also are pieces of wood and ironwork scattered across the site.

The Gould Mine opened in 1905 and was promoted as one of the richest copper strikes in the then Arizona Territory. It produced a mere 1500 tons of ore, though, and closed after only seven years.

Once you’ve taken in the sights, retrace your steps back to the parking lot. Some hikers include this in a loop with the Sendero Esperanza Trail (go right/east on it) and either the King Canyon Wash or the King Canyon trails (go south on them). This adds 0.3 miles if taking King Canyon Wash, and 0.2 miles if taking the King Canyon Trail to the hike.

There’s no shade along the trail, so be sure to don sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. Due to the aridity, bring at least 1.5 quarts of drinking water per person.

TOPO MAP

Gould Mine Trail. Click for larger version.