National Park Service LogoU.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park ServiceNational Park Service
National Park Service:  U.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park Service Arrowhead
Saguaro National ParkRock Squirrel
view map
text size:largestlargernormal
printer friendly
Saguaro National Park
Hiking Restrictions
 

- Hiking groups are limited to a maximum of 18 persons.

- Because of the sensitivity of the desert environment and for resource protection, hiking off-trail is not permitted below 4,500 feet.  

- If you are at an elevation above 4,500 feet and your situation does require off-trail hiking, the maximum number of persons allowed in an off-trail group is 10 (this is to minimize impact).  

- Camping requires a permit available from a ranger at the visitor center or by fax. Permits must be obtained by noon the day of departure. Click here to download the backcountry information booklet and permit application form.

- Pets are not allowed on any trails. They may be walked in the picnic areas (except Tucson Mountain District’s Mam-A-Gah picnic area) and parking lots and on the roadways as long as they remain on a six foot leash. Click here for information on hiking with dogs.

- Access is prohibited in the sensitive resource area near the Red Hills Visitor Center (shown on map in purple).

- Bicycles are not permitted on any trails on the West District.  On the East District, bicycles are permitted on the Cactus Forest Loop road and currently on one trail: 2.5 miles of the Cactus Forest Trail- from the north side of the two-way portion of the road, past the Lime Falls/Lime Kiln area to where it meets the one-way portion of the Cactus Forest Loop road again. Helmets are required for all riders and passengers under 18 years of age. Click here for more information on bicycling at the park. 

The flower of a Staghorn Cholla  

Did You Know?
Many of the plants of the Sonoran Desert are not only edible, they are great sources of nutrition, including the buds of the Staghorn Cholla which is a great source of calcium.

Last Updated: April 06, 2008 at 21:56 EST