NOTICE: Saguaro National Park Visitor Centers Now Closed on Mondays Indefinitely

What You Need to Know

If you’re planning a Monday visit to one of America’s most iconic desert landscapes, heads up. Saguaro National Park has announced some changes you’ll want to know about before hitting the road.

Home to America’s Most Famous Cactus

Tucked away in southeastern Arizona, Saguaro National Park protects thousands of the towering cacti that have become symbols of the American West.

These gentle giants only grow naturally in the Sonoran Desert, making this park a truly special place to experience them up close.

The Park’s Two Districts: East and West

Saguaro isn’t just one location – it’s split into two separate districts with the city of Tucson sitting right between them.

You can visit the Tucson Mountain District (Saguaro West) or the Rincon Mountain District (Saguaro East). Both districts preserve Sonoran Desert landscapes, fauna, and flora, including the giant saguaro cactus.

Monday Closures Now in Effect

“Effective 2/24/25, Visitor Centers in both districts will be closed on Mondays until further notice. We regret any inconvenience,” Saguaro National Park officials announced this change on their website and social media.

The change comes during their busiest season, November through March, when over a million people visit each year.

About the Rincon Mountain Visitor Center (East)

The Rincon Mountain Visitor Center is just 15 miles from downtown Tucson. It’s still open Tuesdays through Sundays, from 9 AM to 5 PM.

When open, the visitor center is where you’ll find the information desk, maps, and restrooms, as well as the bookstore.

Be sure to say hi to Saguaro NP’s friendly park rangers. If you want to drive the gorgeous Cactus Forest Loop Drive, this is also the starting point.

About the Red Hills Visitor Center (West)

The Red Hills Visitor Center is a fantastic place to start your West Saguaro NP adventure. Inside the visitor center are exhibits about the Tucson Mountains’ unique geology and helpful staff.

From here, you can drive the Hohokam trail and stop for hikes at the Signal Hill petroglyphs trail and Valley View Overlook trail.

Good News: The Park Itself Remains Open Daily

The visitor centers may be closed on Mondays, but Saguaro National Park itself is open. All roads, trails, picnic areas, and restrooms remain open seven days a week.

Mica View Trail Temporarily Closed for Improvements

Another note: The Mica View Trail in the east district is closed for resurfacing from February 18 through April 30, 2025.

This accessible trail is getting a new durable surface to make it safer and more pleasant for visitors with wheelchairs and other mobility.

During construction, you can still reach Mica View Picnic Area via the Cactus Forest Trail.

Wildflowers Are Starting to Bloom Right Now

Late February through March brings colorful cactus and wildflower blooms throughout the park. By late April, the magnificent saguaros themselves begin flowering, with fruits ripening by June.

Just remember: July kicks off monsoon season, so watch for flash floods if you’re visiting this summer.

Visiting Saguaro National Park

Address:

• Saguaro National Park West District: 2700 North Kinney Road, Tucson, AZ 85743
• Saguaro National Park East District: 3693 South Old Spanish Trail Tucson, AZ

All visitors need an entrance pass:

• Standard pass: $15-$25 (good for 7 days at both districts)
• Annual pass: $45
• America the Beautiful Pass: Free entrance

The park has a cashless payment system.