Drive the Scenic Loop in Saguaro National Park East (Cactus Forest)

The Cactus Forest scenic drive is one of two scenic drives in Saguaro National Park (the other is in the West district location).  The drive in Saguaro National Park East is a paved eight-mile one way loop that runs through the heart of an extensive saguaro forest.  If you’re lucky enough to visit during the blooming season, you’re in for a treat!  Wildflower season is also spectacular.  Not to mention the one time it received snowfall! 

Most of the parks picnic areas (which have waterless toilets, grills, picnic tables and trash cans) are accessible from the drive.  Just make sure to pick an appropriate spot to pull off the road, as you don’t want cars coming up behind you!

There is a visitor center, as well as many hiking trails where you can get up close and personal with these spiky beasts.  Truly a wonderful way to experience a wide variety of desert flora and fauna.

Make sure to contact the visitor center before you go, to see what (if any) restrictions are in place.

Phone Number: (520) 733-5153

GPS: 32° 17' 48.2568'' N,111° 9' 59.8248'' W