I technically call Tucson, Arizona, my hometown because that’s where I went to high school and college, and where most of my family currently resides. To me, it’s one of the most uniquely beautiful places in America – perhaps the world.
The desert landscape in Arizona, especially Saguaro National Park East + West, are breathtaking. On my latest trip to Arizona, my family and I hiked the Loma Alta trail in Saguaro National Park East. Saguaro NP is split into east and west, based on which side of Tucson it sits. I usually go to the west park since it’s closer to my family home, so whenever I get to go to the east park, it’s special.
There are a few different trails in the park that start at the same trailhead, but we just took the main Loma Alta trail. Unfortunately we couldn’t hike the entire trail because my little brother’s feet were hurting in his hiking boots, so we ended up hiking about 4 miles roundtrip. If you want details on the different trails that start at the Loma Alta Trailhead, check out this website.
This trail exemplifies beautiful saguaro forests and mountain views.
You can also spot a variety of cacti, from prickly pears to chollas to saguaros to barrel cacti and more!
We went later in the day (which I don’t typically recommend because it’s usually the hottest time of day, but we went in the winter so it was chillier and didn’t have to worry about heat stroke) and were treated to a beautiful sunset while walking back to our car and driving home. I swear, there’s nothing like an Arizona sunset. It’s absolutely stunning.
I adore hiking in Arizona – it’s one of my favorite things in the world to do. If you’re ever in Arizona and get the opportunity to hike in Saguaro National Park, please do! You won’t regret it.
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Thank you for reading! Have you ever been to Saguaro National Park? Let me know in the comments below and like this post if you want more like it!
Xoxo’s
Emmalee
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Emmalee Mauldin 