Stand tall. Reach for the sky. Be patient through dry spells. Conserve your resources. Think long term. Wait for your time to bloom. Stay sharp!
— Advice from a Saguaro National Park Service
Date Created: Saguaro National Park was established on October 14, 1994. The park was originally designated as Saguaro National Monument on March 1, 1933, and later expanded and redesignated as a national park.
Location: Southeastern Arizona, near the city of Tucson, USA.
Size: Saguaro National Park is divided into two districts: the Rincon Mountain District (east) and the Tucson Mountain District (west). The Rincon Mountain District covers approximately 67,364 acres (27,297 hectares), and the Tucson Mountain District covers approximately 24,902 acres (10,076 hectares). The combined size of the park is around 92,266 acres (37,373 hectares).
The Tohono O’odham believe the saguaro are transformed human ancestors. Sitting in the midst of these giant spiked cacti it is quite easy to attribute human characteristics. Some saguaros are grouped as if by family while others stand alone. Some stand stately while others are bent and decrepit with age. Couples appear to be dancing. These cacti can each reach 50’ in height and live up to 200 years. Many have holes burrowed into the columns that provide nests for desert birds. This park is quiet, peaceful and spiritual despite the frightful thorns.
