As a family, we decided to focus on having more adventures! We want to look back at this period of time and not think of the things that we missed out on but instead value the moments that we were able to have together.
On our list of places to visit was the Saguaro National Park in Tucson, Arizona. It is only a 2 hour drive from us but we have never made the time to go!
We also wanted to take advantage of my daughter's Every Child Outdoors pass before it expires the end of the month. (See more details below on the pass for all 4th graders).
Saguaro National Park is actually comprised of 2 separate Parks - the Rincon Mountain District (East) and the Tucson Mountain District (West).
We were able to squeeze in a visit to both sides on this day. Our family started with the East District and there is a lovely 8 mile paved road that takes you through the park called the Cactus Forest Loop Drive. There are a ton of pull out locations to stop for photo opportunities. Several hiking trails and picnic areas are also found throughout the park. The Desert Ecology Trail is a great option for families at .25 miles and is stroller and wheelchair accessible. Because of the summer heat, we decided against any hiking but look forward to visiting again in the cooler months.
The West part of the Park is a totally different experience and there is an unpaved loop to drive called the Bajada Scenic Loop. Be advised that the road is pretty bumpy in places so an SUV might be a better vehicle choice. It does feel like you are driving right through the middle of the desert! There are some trails to explore off of the loop, including the Signal Hill Trail where you can view petroglyphs. The Cactus Garden Trail by the Visitors Center is a paved stroller and wheelchair accessible trail.
We enjoyed exploring both sides of the Park. If your time is limited, my personal favorite was the Rincon Mountain District (East). There are beautiful views, lots of trails and great photo opportunities. We will definitely be back when the temperatures cool down to do some more exploring.
Due to Covid-19 restrictions at the writing of this article, the visitor centers are closed. Payments can be taken online or at self pay/honor pay stations.
Entrance fee paid for admission to Saguaro National Park is good for seven days and includes both the Tucson Mountain District (West) and the Rincon Mountain District (East) and is $25.00/vehicle. For more information, please visit https://www.nps.gov/sagu/planyourvisit/fees.htm
If you have a child in the 4th grade for this school year, they can receive a National Park pass. It is a great way to be able to explore National Parks as a family! For more info, visit https://everykidoutdoors.gov/pass.htm
