Saguaro Activities

Bicycling At Saguaro National Park

Tucson is known as one of the most bicycle friendly cities in the United States. This is largely due to our climate, particularly in the winter. If you plan on bicycling in the summer, it is best to get an early start and avoid the mid-day heat. Always carry plenty of water regardless of the time of year. For more information about bicycling within Saguaro National Park, take a look at the site bulletin, Bicycling in Saguaro National Park.

Saguaro National Park offers visitors the chance to view native plants and animals while surrounded by the spectacular scenery of the Sonoran Desert. A popular way to enjoy the park is to bike around one of our scenic loop drives. The Cactus Forest Loop Drive in the Rincon Mountain District (east) is an 8-mile paved loop. The Bajada Loop Drive in the Tucson Mountain District (west) is a 6-mile gravel loop.

Restrooms are available at both visitor centers during daylight hours only. Pit toilets are available at all picnic areas. Benches, bicycle racks and water fountains can be found adjacent to both visitor centers.

Carry plenty of water while biking, especially during the summer. Drinking water is NOT available on the Cactus Forest Drive, Bajada Loop Drive or at any picnic area.

Carry personal identification while biking. Also have the name, address and phone number of someone to contact in the event of an emergency.

Helmets are required for all riders or passengers under eighteen (18) years of age per Pima County Statute. Helmets, gloves and glasses are recommended for all riders.

Bicycles are not permitted in the cactus garden or on the patio in front of either visitor center.

Bicycles must obey all traffic signs, including speed limits and stop signs. If you see an accident, or are involved in one, report the incident to a park ranger as soon as possible.

Both visitor centers are open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. The phone number at the Rincon Mountain District (east) is (520) 733-5153. The phone number at the Tucson Mountain District (west) is (520) 733-5158. If the visitor center is closed, call 911.

Always maintain a safe speed for road conditions and your own riding experience, or the least experienced rider in your group. Bicycles are allowed in the park after dark, however a rear reflector and headlight are required. For frequent riders, annual passes are available at either visitor center or the entrance station. These passes allow unlimited entry into the park, and are valid for one year.