Saguaro National Park, Tucson

Designated in 1994 and covers Tucson from two sides, Saguaro National Park gives protection to native animals and plants, most prominently the stately Saguaro cactus is a well-known icon of the Arizonan and Mexican deserts. Both locations have loop roads for driving and cycling, visitor's centers, bookstores, hiking trails, picnic areas and exhibit centers. The Westside park also has a remarkable ancient petroglyph site. Rangers offer special interpretative hikes on request. There is no admission fee for the Westside; however, the Eastside park charges for per car. This place is open daily at 7am.