Cactus Forest Trail
A longer multi-use traverse through dense saguaro forest, historic lime-kiln remnants and several desert washes.
Route overview
Cactus Forest Trail in Arizona.
The official 2.5-mile one-way trail connects the north and south trailheads along the Cactus Forest Loop Drive. Its northern portion is comparatively flat and wide, while central and southern sections become rockier, narrower and more uneven.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- Arizona
- Distance
- 4.02 km
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- Not published by official source
- Best season
- Check current official seasonal access and conditions
- Trail type
- point-to-point
Safety context
Treat the route as point-to-point unless a separate return plan is documented. Yield appropriately to cyclists and equestrians, avoid the Lime Falls wash during storm risk, and do not leave the signed route for ruins or water features. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Treat the route as point-to-point unless a separate return plan is documented. Yield appropriately to cyclists and equestrians, avoid the Lime Falls wash during storm risk, and do not leave the signed route for ruins or water features.
Highlights
Cactus Forest Trail, Saguaro National Park, Sonoran Desert, Arizona hiking
Why find a buddy
Best for partners comfortable with shared-use etiquette and variable tread. Agree on endpoint transport, wash conditions and whether the hike is a full traverse or a shorter out-and-back.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.