Saguaro National Park is located near Tucson, Arizona (which offers plenty to do and see), with two sections of the park that are on either side of the Old Pueblo city. Fittingly, the Saguaro National Park gets its name from the many saguaro cactuses that are an iconic part of Arizona’s desert landscapes.
Visiting Saguaro National Park for some beautiful hikes unlocks one of the best-kept secrets in the Sonoran Desert. Out of them all, here are the top hikes in Saguaro National Park that should be on every adventurer’s Arizona vacation itinerary.
10 Bridal Wreath Falls Trail
Saguaro National Park in Tuscon, Arizona
One of the unique things to do in Tuscon (or rather, near it) is to explore the Bridal Wreath Falls Trail in Saguaro National Park, which takes just under 3 hours for most hikers to complete. The trail is well maintained and offers scenic views near Tucson, Arizona, but hikers should be aware that there is hardly any shade en route.
For that reason, it’s best to start early in the morning to complete the hike before the sun is at its highest point for the day. The falls may be dried up or running at a trickle depending on the time of year.
-
Distance:
9.2 km -
Elevation Gain:
334 meters -
Trail Type:
Out and back -
Difficulty Level:
Moderate -
Dog Friendly:
No
9 King Canyon Trail To Wasson Peak
A photo of Desert Sunrise at Sabino Canyon with Saguaros, Tucson, Arizona
The King Canyon Trail to Wasson Peak is among the most beautiful hikes in Saguaro National Park. It is suitable for intermediate hikers or beginners seeking a challenge. It takes a little under 4 hours to complete this route for most people with strenuous switchbacks towards the end of the trail.
The views are incredible – just be sure to wear bug repellent!
-
Distance:
10.8 km -
Elevation Gain:
559 meters
-
Trail Type:
Out and back -
Difficulty Level:
Moderate -
Dog Friendly:
No
8 Gould Mine
Ruined stone structure along the Gould Mine Trail in Saguaro National Park, Tucson, Arizona, USA
The moderately challenging Gould Mine trail in Saguaro National Park, Arizona, takes just over 1 hour to complete, on average.
It’s a rewarding route with scenic views and old ruined stone structures visible along the way, but the terrain is rocky and uneven, so hikers should ensure they wear hiking shoes and boots with good support.
-
Distance:
3.9 km -
Elevation Gain:
117 meters -
Trail Type:
Loop -
Difficulty Level:
Moderate -
Dog Friendly:
No
7 Ernie’s Falls
Saguaros at Sunset in the Sonoran Desert near Phoenix
Ernie’s Falls is another route in Saguaro National Park that takes hikers to a scenic waterfall view. At some points throughout the summer, the falls may reduce to a trickle or dry up entirely.
The gorgeous trail should be undertaken early in the day to beat the intense heat since there is no shade on this route.
-
Distance:
10.6 km -
Elevation Gain:
370 meters -
Trail Type:
Out and back -
Difficulty Level:
Moderate -
Dog Friendly:
No
6 Signal Hill Trail
Petroglyphs on Signal Hill in Saguaro National Park
Signal Hill Trail is fun for the whole family – this easy trail in Saguaro National Park can be completed in just 7 minutes and is virtually flat. It’s accessible for hikers of all ages and fitness levels, making it perfect for a casual stroll with kids or grandparents.
The views and chance to see petroglyphs are entirely worth it.
-
Distance:
0.5 km -
Elevation Gain:
8 meters -
Trail Type:
Out and back -
Difficulty Level:
Easy -
Dog Friendly:
No
5 Petroglyphs At King Canyon
Petroglyph in Saguaro National Park West, Arizona
The Petroglyphs at King Canyon is one of the best hiking trails in Saguaro National Park, so hikers are likely to encounter many other people on the trail. It takes around 1 hour to complete this hike, and travelers can see petroglyphs when looking on the West side of the wash.
While it’s rated as moderate, it’s fairly flat and is manageable for novice hikers. It’s also one of the most popular hikes in Saguaro National Park, so visitors might spot others trekking the route, too.
-
Distance:
3.5 km -
Elevation Gain:
89 meters -
Trail Type:
Out and back -
Difficulty Level:
Moderate -
Dog Friendly:
No
4 Tanque Verde Ridge
The Tanque Verde Ridge trail in Saguaro National Park typically takes just under 2 hours to complete. The landscape on this route is stunning, with plenty of wildflowers and cactuses to see along the way.
Bring plenty of water and wear a hat and protective clothing because there is no shade. Plus, hiking this route for sunset is breathtaking!
-
Distance:
5.3 km -
Elevation Gain:
282 meters -
Trail Type:
Out and back -
Difficulty Level:
Moderate -
Dog Friendly:
No
3 Hugh Norris Trail
Cactuses in Saguaro National Park, Arizona
The Hugh Norris Trail in Saguaro National Park is popular for both hiking and horseback riding – so hikers should be aware they may need to yield the right of way to riders passing by.
The route usually takes just over 5 hours to complete and requires stamina due to heat, sun exposure, and significant elevation gain. This trail is a fantastic cardio workout!
-
Distance:
14.3 km -
Elevation Gain:
731 meters -
Trail Type:
Out and back -
Difficulty Level:
Moderate -
Dog Friendly:
No
2 Garwood Trail
Silhouette of a cactus at sunset in the desert near Tucson
The Garwood Trail is a straightforward trail; it is one of the top hiking trails in Saguaro National Park that is manageable for novice hikers and a relaxing break for experienced trekkers. Stay on the trail (always respect nature) and watch for wildlife like snakes and bugs.
There may also be horses on this beautiful route in the park, too.
-
Distance:
5.3 km -
Elevation Gain:
62 meteor -
Trail Type:
Out and back -
Difficulty Level:
Easy -
Dog Friendly:
No
1 Mica View Trail
Cacti silhouettes at sundown in the Arizona desert
Mica View Trail is another one of the easiest hikes in Saguaro National Park that only takes around 30 minutes to complete, on average. The trail is flat, and while it was once paved, it is now a dirt trail, so wearing sensible hiking shoes is still a good idea.
The main challenge on this hike is the distance in the heat, so be sure to bring important hiking essentials like some water, clothing to protect against the sun (that’s also lightweight and sweat-wicking), and sunscreen.
-
Distance:
2.3 km -
Elevation Gain:
15 meters -
Trail Type:
Out and back -
Difficulty Level:
Easy -
Dog Friendly:
No
