Desert Discovery Nature Trail - Saguaro National Park West
Hi friends and happy National Park Week! Today we are enjoying the Tucson Mountain District of Saguaro National Park in southern Arizona. Join me as we head out on the perfect introductory trail to see the mighty saguaro cactus here.
FAST FACTS
Distance: 0.4 mile loop
Elevation: 20 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Desert Discovery Nature Trail in Saguaro National Park West
Location
Saguaro National Park is divided into two separate sections that are located 30 miles apart. The east section is known as the Rincon Mountain District (RMD) and the west section is known as the Tucson Mountain District (TMD)...but most people just refer to them as “East” and “West”. When seeking out a hiking trail in Saguaro, it’s important to know which side of the park it’s in before you head out to explore...the two districts are located on separate sides of Tucson, about an hour drive from each other. Today we’ll be hiking in Saguaro West (TMD), heading out on the Desert Discovery Nature Trail, which is one of the most far western spots you can visit inside this national park, located right off North Kinney Road.
Sunrise at Desert Discovery Nature Trail
Trail
The fully paved Desert Discovery Nature Trail comes in at just under a 1/2 mile with no noticeable elevation change, so this short hike might feel more like a gentle stroll...but that also makes it the perfect option for families with small children or those who have limited time to explore and still want a taste of the unique landscape and desert beauty found in this region.
While this is a short trail, there are numerous information panels situated along the path, so make sure to give yourself time to stop and learn about the local flora and fauna here.
Giant saguaro along Desert Discovery Nature Trail
Giant Saguaros
Of course the highlights of this trail are the up-close views you get of the massive saguaros, which have long been considered a symbol of the American Southwest. Since 1933, the giant saguaro has been protected – first by Saguaro National Monument, and then by Saguaro National Park in 1994 when it was officially established. These towering cacti dominate the Sonoran Desert here, and they’re an ideal residence for bats, birds, and small insects, which is an incredible living example of the beautiful interdependence of both plants and animals here.
Desert Discovery Nature Trail in Saguaro National Park West
Other Plants & Animals
Along with the giant saguaros, this trail highlights countless other desert plants and shrubs, including numerous cholla. This area is also abundant with wildlife – everything from small insects and birds to snakes, lizards, and larger mammals like coyotes. These prickly cacti and the diverse animal presence is just one more reason to remember to stay on the path and follow all the Leave No Trace Principles. The NPS has done an incredible job of creating the beautiful paved path for us here, so please don’t head off and make your own trail, both for your own safety and also to keep this place wild and wonderful for years to come.
Desert Discovery Nature Trail in Saguaro National Park West
Know Before You Go
• This trail is short, but it’s important to note that there is no shade except for a small covered bench near the beginning of the loop, so I’d recommend planning an early morning visit here (particularly in the hot summer months).
• The small nature trail parking lot is right off North Kinney Road and can fill up quickly, which is another reason to visit earlier in the day.
• The Desert Discovery Nature Trail is located just passed Red Hills Saguaro West Visitor Center, which is open daily from 9 AM till 5 PM. This visitor center has natural and cultural history exhibits, along with beautiful mountain and saguaro views from the patio area. I would definitely consider giving it a stop on your visit to this section of the park.
• Whenever traveling to a national park, make sure to check out the latest road and weather conditions on the official NPS website prior to visiting.
Top 10 Saguaro Highlights
Bajada Loop Drive (West)
Cactus Forest Drive (East)
Signal Hill Petroglyphs (West)
Mica View Trail (East)
Javelina Rocks Overlook (East)
Desert Discovery Trail (West)
Freeman Homestead Trail (East)
Red Hills Visitor Center (West)
King Canyon Trail (West)
Desert Ecology Trail (East)
Giant saguaros along Desert Discovery Nature Trail
In Summary
Thank you so much for joining me this week in Saguaro National Park West. For a virtual visit to the Desert Discovery Nature Trail, make sure to watch my Behind the Blog video located at the top of this post, or watch it on YouTube here. Until next week, I hope you find adventure and encouragement wherever you go.
Early morning skies seen from Desert Discovery Nature Trail in Saguaro National Park
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About Me
I’m Dawn Marie, a travel and lifestyle blogger based out of Southern California. With in-depth articles, travel guides, and reviews on hotels & products, I seek to share my journeys to help you plan for your own. My adventures take me all over California, the western United States, and around the globe...and every Monday I post new content here, including a comprehensive blog post and YouTube video.
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