Saguaro National - need some clues
Sep 30, 2019 10:43:39 #
If you enjoy bird photography go to the Gilbert Water Ranch, was there in March, lots of birds. Also went to the park where burrowing owls hang out. Don't remember the name but it is not too far from the Water Ranch.
Sep 30, 2019 11:01:04 #
davidcaley
Loc: Utah
Now East of Mesa (which is east of Phoenix) is Boyce Thompson Arboretum. Part of Arizona State Parks and is best photo op I experienced living in area for some years. Plantings for all over the state and world (including Saguaro!). Birds, Butterflies, Dragonflys, etc.
https://azstateparks.com/boyce-thompson
https://azstateparks.com/boyce-thompson
Sep 30, 2019 11:02:14 #
Take the Speedway road over the hill to Grants Pass. As you go over Grants pass the Saguaro's are every where. There is a view area within a mile. Try it and then use the road though the area. Everywhere the road rises is probably a great view area.
Sep 30, 2019 11:17:23 #
skornfeld wrote:
Going to Phoenix area beginning of December to visit a relative but will have a few days to site see/photography. Saguaro is only about 2 hours away but in doing some research I didn't realize how huge it is! Looking for some recommendations that are a easy relatively short hikes (couple of miles) or something else of interest in Phoenix area. Have already done Grand Canyon and Sedona in previous trips.
I'm glad you asked this question. I'm going there myself later in October and found the replies to your question helpful for my trip.
Sep 30, 2019 11:34:17 #
skornfeld wrote:
Going to Phoenix area beginning of December to visit a relative but will have a few days to site see/photography. Saguaro is only about 2 hours away but in doing some research I didn't realize how huge it is! Looking for some recommendations that are a easy relatively short hikes (couple of miles) or something else of interest in Phoenix area. Have already done Grand Canyon and Sedona in previous trips.
The Peralta Trail east of Apache Junction is about the most stunning scenery I've seen in AZ. However, it's about 5 miles round trip, and is somewhat strenuous.
Sep 30, 2019 11:46:32 #
JohnFitzharris
Loc: Arizona
Just spent Thursday visiting Tucson, and Saguaro was part of it. They actually have one short and a few long trails for hiking and seeing and snapping. Other places nearby include Bumblebee, Cottonwood, Salt River Canyon and Crown King...all within an hour or two from downtown Phoenix.
Sep 30, 2019 11:51:49 #
Retired CPO wrote:
Saguaro N.P. is in Tucson. There is a west and east part, both pretty big. The east side is a bit more dramatic. The west side is quieter, fewer people and more wildlife. Both have nice, level hiking.
Absolutely correct.
Sep 30, 2019 15:16:15 #
scallihan
Loc: Tigard, OR
bsprague wrote:
The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is a "must go to" if you are in that area.
Sep 30, 2019 15:32:59 #
skornfeld wrote:
Going to Phoenix area beginning of December to visit a relative but will have a few days to site see/photography. Saguaro is only about 2 hours away but in doing some research I didn't realize how huge it is! Looking for some recommendations that are a easy relatively short hikes (couple of miles) or something else of interest in Phoenix area. Have already done Grand Canyon and Sedona in previous trips.
I've lived in Phoenix for 20+ years.... The opportunities for photography are limitless. What are you primarily interested in? Nature & wildlife, cities, monuments, native art, etc... Without a bit more info. it's just about impossible to provide meaningful recommendations.
Sep 30, 2019 15:35:43 #
Tjohn wrote:
Be prepared to hike rough terrain and watch your step for living things. Go early (before sunrise) and late. That is when the light is most spectacular and wildlife most active. Used to live within 'spitting distance'.
No worry whatsoever about living things in December... We've got lots of scorpions, rattlesnakes, chiggers, and other pleasantries, but you don't even need to think of them in December. A summer visit would be a different matter....
Sep 30, 2019 15:36:00 #
PierreD wrote:
I've lived in Phoenix for 20+ years.... The opportunities for photography are limitless. What are you primarily interested in? Nature & wildlife, cities, monuments, native art, etc... Without a bit more info. it's just about impossible to provide meaningful recommendations.
mostly landscape, not a birder or wildlife. Cities at night light up, sunrises and sunsets
Sep 30, 2019 20:07:04 #
I'll second the suggestion of the Apache Trail (knessr) above. Not for the faint of heart, but one of the most interesting scenic drives in all of Arizona if landscapes are your thing. Be sure to stop at the restaurant in
Tortilla Flats (about 10 miles into the 40 mile trip from Apache Junction to Roosevelt Dam.) You'll probably wish to take an alternate route back to your starting point, as the drive itself is rather tedious due to the fact that about 30 miles is unpaved and winding. I would plan a full day for this adventure.
Tortilla Flats (about 10 miles into the 40 mile trip from Apache Junction to Roosevelt Dam.) You'll probably wish to take an alternate route back to your starting point, as the drive itself is rather tedious due to the fact that about 30 miles is unpaved and winding. I would plan a full day for this adventure.
Sep 30, 2019 20:27:20 #
Have lots of fun and take lots of pics. Tucson has some real treats for you. Be sure to take lots of water, no matter what time of year, it is very dry and you can dehydrate very quickly. Some snacks would be in order too, that way you do not cut your time short. Enjoy, I think I have covered just about every sq mile in and around Tucson as I lived there for a number of years. Looking forward to seeing your pictures and reading about your trip.
Sam
Sam
Sep 30, 2019 20:34:56 #
Sep 30, 2019 20:49:57 #
skornfeld wrote:
Going to Phoenix area beginning of December to visit a relative but will have a few days to site see/photography. Saguaro is only about 2 hours away but in doing some research I didn't realize how huge it is! Looking for some recommendations that are a easy relatively short hikes (couple of miles) or something else of interest in Phoenix area. Have already done Grand Canyon and Sedona in previous trips.
Scenic sites close to Phoenix:
- Lost Dutchman SP;
- Peralta Trail;
- Saguaro Lake;
- Picacho Peak (mid-way between Phoenix and Tucson).
All these locations have an extensive and easily accessible trail system - you can get all the necessary info online. Some need a recreation permit - make sure to get one if needed or be ready for the ticket.
Further south:
- Saguaro Natl Park (W.) - large but easy access. Includes a loop road with many photo ops in case you are not inclined to hike;
- Sabino Canyon - also easy access once you are in Tucson. Popular year-round destination.
- Mt Lemmon - paved road to top (8000 ft+) with many places where you can stop along road for photography or for hikes. Check weather as road closes during snowstorms.
- Madera Canyon (Santa Rita Mtns): ~ 45 min S. of Tucson. Many hiking trails in beautiful mountain area. Road may also close during inclement weather.
Heat in December won't be a problem at all, but always carry some water and food when hiking - people get lost every year in the Superstition Mtns E. of Phoenix and you don't want to be one of them! Some of the above areas have no/poor cell phone reception, so always tell someone where you are heading and when you plan on being back. Just in case....
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