EXTRAORDINARY LANDSCAPES. ENDURING STORIES.

Sonoran Desert National Monument

Saguaros & wide-open desert
Arizona
Scenic header: Independence Monument as seen from Rim Rock Drive is an icon of the larger national monument. · NPS Photo · Photo credits
TAKE TIME TO DISCOVER

Saguaros & wide-open desert

Mountain ranges and broad valleys protect a large Sonoran Desert landscape. The monument’s quiet scale is best appreciated through selected established public routes.

BUILD A MEMORABLE VISIT

What to explore

  • 01Saguaro landscapes
  • 02Maricopa Mountains region
  • 03Historic trail interpretation

Before you go

Expect limited facilities and rough approaches. Check current public routes and avoid unsupported cross-country driving.

Give the place time

Choose a manageable walk, viewpoint or tour, and allow time for interpretation. Gateway areas help orient the visit; they are not exact entrance directions.

Make the details easy

Confirm the specific facilities, walking surfaces and vehicle access your group needs. Tours, transport and special access may require separate arrangements.

Check the official source for current access, hours, fees, reservations, permits and alerts. Photos may show earlier conditions. Suggested highlights are visit ideas, not a guarantee that every area is currently open.