This Scenic Drive Runs Straight Through Arizona's Saguaro National Park, And It's A Breathtaking Journey
Katie Lawrence
Author
Saguaro National Park is known for its world-class hiking trails, but it’s also home to one of the best scenic drives in Arizona. The Cactus Forest Loop is a 10-mile route that weaves through the park’s signature Saguaro cacti and towering mountains, making for a truly breathtaking journey. Cactus Forest Drive in Saguaro National Park is one of the most scenic drives in the state.
If you’re planning a visit to this incredible national park, there’s no better time to visit than during National Park Week. Learn all about this celebration of America’s great outdoors — including fee-free days throughout the year!
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Enjoy a drive on the beautiful Cactus Forest Scenic Loop Drive in Tucson, Arizona in this video from Welcome to Tucson:
Visit the National Park Service website for more information about Cactus Forest Drive.
Have you ever embarked on this scenic drive? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our previous article for a nearby waterfall hike that will take your breath away. Be sure to check out AllTrails+ for all your hiking trail needs.
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Scenic Drives In Arizona
Can you drive through Saguaro National Park?
Why yes, you can actually drive through Saguaro National Park on two scenic roads. The first one in Saguaro National Park East is a paved eight-mile one-way loop. The other route in Saguaro National Park West has several options to choose from that will take you through the park. The drives are open from 7 a.m. until sunset. A $25 vehicle entry pass is required to enter the park.
What are some scenic drives in Arizona?
Arizona may be known as a hot dry desert, but that doesn't mean it isn't beautiful in its own unique way. Here are some scenic drives in Arizona that may surprise you with their beauty:
- Route 66: The iconic Route 66 through Arizona is one of the quintessential drives in the state. With fun curvy roads that whisk you into a frenzy (especially when you are riding a motorcycle or driving a fast convertible) set against beautiful red-rock mesas, this drive is awe-inspiring.
- State Route 89A: The Vermillion Cliffs National Monument is another iconic area of Arizona that makes for a fun scenic drive. This drive just south of the Utah state line takes you passed incredible canyon views with rock formations that swirl and dance like they are alive when viewed against a great sunset.
- Beeline Highway: We don't have to tell you to make a beeline for the Beeline Highway. (We can't miss out on a great turn of phrase, can we?) This outrageous road takes you from a dry desert landscape to a lush forest to a flat rocky plateau, all in one stretch of road along State Route 87. You may even be treated to the rare Arizona snowfall at the right time of year.