Hours

Operating Hours

In the Tucson Mountain District (west), the park is open to vehicles from sunrise to sunset (actual times vary throughout the year).

In the Rincon Mountain District (east), the park is open to vehicles from 5 am to 8 pm in the summer, and 5 am to 6 pm in the winter.

You can walk or bike into the park 24 hours a day.

Visitor Center
Both districts are open on all holidays except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

Visitor Center Operating Hours: Daily 9 am to 5 pm
Inside each visitor center, you can find information about the park and activities to do, as well as a bookstore where you can purchase items such as books, postcards, posters, Mata Ortiz pottery, tastes of the desert and much more!

Both districts offer a number of ranger-led guided programs for you to enjoy. Visit our calendar to view a list of the guided programs currently being offered.

 

NPS Photo

Desert Seasons

Saguaro National Park is divided by the city of Tucson, which is the only major city located in the Arizona Upland. It is always interesting to hear new residents and visitors protest about the lack of seasons here in the desert. Interestingly, this part of the Sonoran Desert actually has five seasons. Learn more about the Desert Seasons.

Winter Season - Late Fall to Early Spring Programs
With daytime temperature from the low 50's to the high 70's, Saguaro National Park is the perfect place to join one of our guided walks or informative talks. These activities are offered throughout the busy winter season (November through March). Interpretive programs vary from easy strolls through a cactus garden to strenuous hikes.*

Summer Season - Late Spring to Early Fall Programs
As we get deeper into the summer season, temperatures will range from mid-90's to low 110's. This is a great time to experience the desert as the day breaks or in the late of the day as the sun disappears behind the surrounding mountain ranges. Here are some guidelines for hiking in the desert during summer heat:

-If the daily high temperature is between 95° and 110°, finish your hike by 10 am.
-If the daily high temperature is at or above 110°, please stay home.
-Turn around BEFORE you have consumed half of your water supply.

During the late spring and summer months, Saguaro National Park only offers interpretive programs on an intermittent basis.*

*Some interpretive programs are accessible to persons with physical disabilities or require a reservation to participate. This information will be noted on the schedule along with a phone number to make a reservation or get more information. Schedules are subject to change - please call the visitor centers for updates.