The entire route is about 25 miles. Saguaro National Park - East Saguaro National Park consists of two units. The East Unit is in the foothills of the Rincon Mountains. Many of the saguaros here were destroyed. Most of what you'll see are younger plants and some older and dying giants.
Saguaro grow very slowly and the giants are over two hundred years old.
An eight-mile Cactus Loop Road takes you through the unit past many fine specimens and good views. Several short nature trails allow you to explore the cactus forest. Birds here are quite tame and easy to photograph. This is only a partial guide to Tucson and the Sonora Desert. Copyright 1996, Photo Traveler Publications.