The Rincon Mountain District of Saguaro National Park is one of two Saguaro National Parks. There is one in the eastern part of Tucson called Rincon, and the other in the western part of Tucson referred to as Tucson Mountain District. We visited the Rincon Mountain District with its towering peaks, diverse ecosystems, and iconic saguaro cacti.
Rincon Mountain District
The Rincon Mountain District paints a dramatic landscape. Here, the Rincon Mountains rise majestically, their elevations reaching 8,666 feet. This dramatic change in altitude translates into a wonderland of diverse ecosystems. From the arid desert scrub at the base to the cool pine forests at the summit, the Rincon Mountains offer a breathtaking exploration of the Sonoran Desert’s rich tapestry of life.
Of course, no exploration of Saguaro National Park would be complete without encountering its namesake, the saguaro cactus. The Rincon Mountain District boasts a magnificent saguaro forest, with these giants standing like silent sentinels against the desert backdrop. The scenic drive along the Cactus Forest Loop Drive is a leisurely route that winds through the heart of the saguaro forest offering picture-perfect moments at every turn.
Hiking and Wildlife
We hiked primarily in the Tucson Mountain District almost daily. The east Saguaro National Park caters to all levels of hikers with an extensive network of trails. For a leisurely stroll, the easy Freeman Homestead Trail, a one-mile loop delves into the history of homesteading in this rugged terrain. For a challenging yet rewarding hike, the Manning Camp Trail rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views from the top.
Reportedly, there are bigger animals in the Rincon District than the Tucson Mountain District. Many of these images were taken at the Desert Museum in the west.
There are desert bighorn sheep navigating the rocky slopes, coyote hunting for prey, mule deer, jackrabbit, bobcat, javelina, raccoons, coatis, ringtails, black bear and mountain lions. Birders might spot a golden eagle soaring overhead.
