Mica View, Cholla, and Cactus Forest Loop

The Mica View, Cholla, and Cactus Forest Loop is a fun hike that makes use of the network of trails in Tucson’s Saguaro National Park East. While this park is known for its higher elevation trails in comparison to Saguaro National Park West, this loop delivers the views without making you work very hard. It’s gently undulating in some parts and flat in others, making it ideal for beginners and families.

The network of trails in this area is well-marked, but if you want to do some adventuring or customize your hike, having a downloaded map on hand could be helpful. Although this is an easy route, make sure you pack water and consider sun protection.

From the trailhead, take Mica View Trail (second from your right). You’ll pass a restroom, go through one junction, and then take a right immediately after to get onto Cactus Forest Trail. Take a left at the fork onto Mesquite Trail. At the fork with Squeeze Pen, go left onto Loma Verde Trail, then stay left soon after onto Cholla Trail. Continue onto Cactus Forest Trail, which will lead you back to the trailhead.