Explore Our Scenic Loop Drives!Both districts of Saguaro National Park offer scenic drives around the cactus forest. Each invites new sights and experiences, as well as an incredible number of saguaros. (Crazy that there are so many out here at Saguaro National Park, right?) Rincon Mountain District (east):The Cactus Forest Scenic Loop Drive is a paved road that lacks parking for RVs and larger vehicles. The Loop Drive features several trailheads, scenic vistas and pullouts in a total of 8 miles (12.9 km). Tucson Mountain District (west):The Scenic Bajada Loop Drive is a popular way of exploring the district’s foothills. This unpaved, graded dirt road offers scenic pullouts, picnic areas, and hiking trailheads in a 6 mile (9.7 km) loop. High clearance or four-wheel drive is not needed to drive the loop. Want to Ride?Rincon Mountain District (east):Bicycling is allowed on the 8-mile Cactus Forest Drive, as well as on two trails within the park. The loop drive is narrow with many tight turns and steep hills. Use extra caution when approaching the first steep downhill after going through the entrance station! Bicyclists must obey all posted speed limits and stop signs. Tucson Mountain District (west):Bicycling is permitted along the Bajada Loop Drive and all paved roads. Bicycling is not permitted on any trails, except the 0.5 mile (0.8 km) Belmont Multi-use trail and the 2.5 mile (4.0 km) Golden Gate Multi-use trail. Picture Rocks Road (on the north) is not recommended for bicycling for safety reasons. HikingLet's hike! But first, let's make sure we are safe. Wait... perhaps we should also look at a map? Ok, now let's hike! Horseback Riding and Stock UseRincon Mountain District (east):Horseback riding off-trail is prohibited. To protect resources and limit damage, livestock are restricted from certain trails and areas entirely
Horse Trailer Parking: Use designated trailer parking. For trails in the Cactus Forest, use the Wild Horse Trailhead. In the Rincon Valley, trailer parking is available 0.4 mile (0.6 km) south of the Loma Alta trailhead. No trailer parking is provided off the Cactus Forest Loop Drive or at the visitor center. Please park trailer outside the park. Learn more about our rules and regulations. Tucson Mountain District (west):Stock groups are limited to 15 animals. Stock are prohibited from off-trail travel. To protect resources and limit damage, livestock are restricted from certain trails and areas entirely
Stock trailers should use Cam Boh, El Camino del Cerro, and Sendero Esperanza trailheads. Rules and Regulations
Rules and regulations for Saguaro National park including topics from general hiking, to drone usage and wedding permits. Maps
Our maps help you plan your trip and keep you safe navigating our wilderness. |
Last updated: November 30, 2023