"Saguaro National Park" Top 5 Page for this destination Saguaro National Park by KimberlyAnn

Saguaro National Park Travel Guide: 213 reviews and 556 photos

Saguaro National Park is divided into two districts, the Rincon Mountain District (Saguaro East) and the Tucson Mountain District (Saguaro West). Both districts are about 15 miles from Tucson, Arizona. This National Park covers about 130 square miles and preserves the giant saguaro cactus and the Sonoran Desert environment. The saguaro cactus has often been used as the symbol of the American Southwest, yet it grows only in southern Arizona, along the Colorado River in California, and in the northern Mexican state of Sonora. This cactus can live more than 150 years and reach heights over 50 feet. It is also believed that the Sonoran Desert surpasses all other North American deserts in the variety of life forms found within it. There are more than 50 types of cacti, bushes, trees, ocotillo, and wild flowers. Birds abound, along with other desert animals such as rattlesnakes, jackrabbits, tortoise, lizards, cactus mice, javelinas, kangaroo rats, and many others.

My photo is of the Saguaro Cactus, which the park preserves.

Pros and Cons

Pros:One of our countries prime desert experiences.
Cons:Summer Midday temperatures can reach over 100 degrees F.
In a nutshell:A great place for hiking and exploring the desert, during Arizona’s cooler months.

Last visit to Saguaro National Park: Mar 1999
Intro Updated Aug 19, 2011
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Reviews (13)

The First Arm Begins to Grow - Saguaro National Park

The Life of a Saguaro Cactus Favorites (3)

The saguaro cactus begins as a tiny, shiny black seed, but from the very beginning the odds for survival are very poor.... more travel advice

Ocotillo In Bloom - Saguaro National Park

Regulations Within the Park Favorites (3)

Here is a list of park rules that must be observed: All plants, animals, rocks, wood, and other natural features must be... more travel advice

Prickly Pear, Teddy Bear and Staghorn Chollas - Saguaro National Park

The Best Time to Visit, and Seasonal... Favorites (3)

The best time to visit, especially if you plan to hike are from October through April, when the temperatures are usually... more travel advice

A Teddy Bear Cactus Protecting a Bird’s Nest - Saguaro National Park

Things To Remember When Hiking Warnings and Dangers (1)

When hiking you should carry at least one gallon of water per person, per day. Watch for cactus and other prickly plants... more travel advice

Comments (8)

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travelgourmet Mar 2, 2010 at 8:23 PM

Great photos to tell the story of the Saguaro. Brought back memories of my youth at the U of A and the drive, way back when, up and down Speedway.
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atufft Apr 22, 2007 at 12:05 AM

Thanks for the photos and tips. It's been many many years since I've been here, and I would like to go back during a winter trip maybe.
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hindu1936 Mar 24, 2006 at 11:42 PM

Once again, your comments have been insightful, and your phtos more than just another tourist shot. Thanks for all of them
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matcrazy1 Apr 26, 2005 at 10:54 AM

Beautiful pictures and excellent, charming writings... thank you very much for refreshing my great memories :-)
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Alphons Dec 14, 2004 at 3:36 AM

Very nice page with beautiful pics, greetings Alphons...
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manuelEB Apr 8, 2004 at 7:44 AM

wow! Will come for details later...
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madamx Apr 6, 2004 at 8:32 AM

Thanks for an extremely informative page; lots of good info.
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MarvintheMartian Mar 14, 2004 at 10:36 AM

How many national parks altogether? I'm sure I am going to enjoy visiting Arizona! There seems to be so many places to visit!