Discover Tucsons Eclectic and Colorful Outdoors

Tucson, Arizona is a place that perfectly captures the vibrant, eclectic, sunny, rugged, historic, artistic, colorful and quirky aspects of southwestern culture. Its also home to some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in America. So where should you explore if youre looking for an authentic outdoor experience that reflects all these facets? Here are our top picks:

Firstly, check out Saguaro National Park (3693 S Old Spanish Trail). This park features two separate sections East and West each with stunning views of saguaro cacti rising up into the sky. These iconic plants only grow in this region so be sure to marvel at their unique beauty while exploring hiking trails like Hugh Norris or Cactus Forest Loop.

Next on our list is Sabino Canyon Recreation Area (5700 N Sabino Canyon Rd), which offers spectacular views as well as easy access to important habitats like riparian areas that support diverse wildlife such as bobcats (Lynx rufus) , javelina (Pecari tajacu) or Gila monsters (Heloderma suspectum). Take a tram ride through the canyon or tackle one of many hiking trails available.

If you want to immerse yourself further in all things Southwestern artistry visit Tohono Chul Park (7366 Paseo del Norte), a showcase for regional artists who draw inspiration from native flora . The canyons there contain numerous endemic bird species including Northern BeardlessTyrannulet camouflaged against desert oaks( Camptostoma imberbe).

For those who appreciate history but still seek nature experiences try visiting Mission San Xavier del Bac Church(1950 W San Xavier Rd,), known as the White Dove of the Desert, it still stands centuries after its construction by skilled artisans mixing both European and Indigenous artistry. The surrounding desert is also home to a variety of plant life, including several species of barrel cactus (Ferocactus sp.) and the ubiquitous creosote bush(Larrea tridentata).

These spots are just a few examples of how Tucsons outdoors perfectly reflects its eclectic and colorful culture. From saguaro cacti to Southwestern artistry, theres so much to explore in this sundrenched city.

Finally, make sure you respect nature by following Leave No Trace principles when exploring these outdoor areas.

Twitter handles:

@SaguaroNPS

@VisitTucsonAZ

Websites:

https://www.visittucson.org/">https://www.nps.gov/sagu/index.htm

https://www.visittucson.org/