The first American national park that was named for a plant, Saguaro National Park in southern Arizona protects a small area of the Sonoran Desert. Home to countless saguaro cacti, this is one of the most iconic places in the West. The cacti themselves, tall and elegant, are the very symbol of the Wild West. You’ll instantly recognize them—even if you haven’t been to the park, you will have seen them in Western movies. Because there already are a couple of detailed posts about the park on our blog, it’s now time to enjoy a selection of inspiring Saguaro National Park photos.
10 Beautiful Saguaro National Park Photos
Saguaro National Park is by no means one of the largest national parks in the USA. It is, however, among the most special. Just because of its immense number of towering cacti, literally cactus forests, it stands out among the rest. It consists of two different districts on both sides of Tucson: the Tucson Mountain and Rincon Mountain Districts.
1. Gorgeous Morning in the Tuscon Mountain District
One of the highlights of the Tucson Mountain District is catching a desert sunrise, the morning light painting the landscape in glorious hues of yellows, greens and oranges.
2. The Bajada Scenic Drive Loops Through a Saguaro Forest
The Bajada Scenic Loop meanders its way through the heart of the Tucson Mountain District. An unpaved road, it is accessible to regular 2WD vehicles allowing you to experience the cactus forest from up close.
3. Prickly Pear Close-Up
The Sonoran Desert is home to its own unique collection of desert plants, among which the prickly pear cactus is one of the most iconic.
4. Tall Saguaros on the Mica View Loop Trail, Rincon Mountain District
One of the nicest short hikes in the Rincon Mountains is the Mica View Loop Trail. It takes you past truly giant saguaros and through gorgeous desert scenery.
5. Camping is Not Allowed in the Tucson Mountain District, But the Gilbert Ray Campground Is a Great Alternative
Camp at the Gilbert Ray Campground just outside the national park to be as close to the action and beauty as possible.
6. Spectacular View from Wasson Peak, the Highest Mountain in the Tucson Mountains
The King Canyon Trail leads to the summit of Wasson Peak, the Tucson Mountains’ highest summit. Naturally, the views are nothing short of sensational.
7. Group of Saguaros in the Rincon Mountains
The Rincon Mountain District, east of Tucson, is much wilder and more rugged than its counterpart on the other side of the city.
8. Young Saguaros Under a Cotton-Cloud Sky
When camping at the Gilbert Ray Campground, this is the landscape you’ll be in. Just gorgeous!
9. Sunrise in Saguaro National Park
Once again, sunrises (and sunsets) in Saguaro National Park are amazing.
10. Gates Pass Overlook
If you want to enjoy a sunset picnic overlooking the Tucson Mountains and valley, there is no better place than Gates Pass Overlook.
Check out the blog posts for more information:
Which one of these Saguaro National Park photos is your favorite? Have you been to this wonderful desert park? Tell us all about it in the comments below!