Cactus Forest Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Loose rocks can make footing tricky, but bold runners may enjoy the challenge.

Arrive at Cactus Forest North Trailhead via Cactus Forest Drive. Head south enjoying views of the Sonoran Desert and surrounding mountains. Be aware that this is a multi-use trail open to hikers, runners, mountain bikers and horseback riders. This is the only trail within Saguaro NP available to mountain biking. In addition, mountain bikers are only allowed on the trail between Cactus Forest Drive.

After approximately a mile, there are remains of old lime kilns used in the early 1900's. The Park Service placed interpretive signs at the kilns detailing the source, and use, of the lime. Continuing south from the kilns, you'll weave up and down some small hills. The hills give you an elevated view of the park.

Just to note, in addition to access points within Saguaro NP, there are also access points just outside the park boundary on Broadway Blvd (on the north) and Old Spanish Trail (on the south).