The Saguaro National Park is unique in that it is actually in two distinct locations: The Tucson Mountain District and the Rincon Mountain District. One section is west of Tucson, the other is east of town. First designated as a National Monument in 1933, the monument was officially made a National Park in 1994.

Typical Sonoran Desert scenery

Sher and I went to the Rincon Mountain District one afternoon when we were visiting Tucson. We stopped at the Park’s Visitor Center to pick up some information brochures and a map of the park. We did not have to pay the entrance fee because we have the America the Beautiful Senior Pass.

Barrel Cactus beginning to bloom

Classic desert scenery

The scenic loop drive is an 8 mile one way paved road that winds through a portion of the huge park. This drive will give you an up close and personal view of the amazing cacti and other plants that populate the remarkable Sonoran desert environment. You can’t help but feel a connection to the marvels of the desert as you take this drive. There are many pull-offs with “scenic” views. Get out and smell the air and take in the spirit of the desert.

This is a wonderful cluster of old timers!

One thing that stood out to us was the individuality of each of the Saguaro catcti. The younger ones had a simple stalk. The Saguaro doesn’t start to grow the iconic “arms” until it is over 6 feet tall and at least 60 to 75 years old. Those old timers with several arms are in the 150 + year old age group!