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While some Tucsonans might not think twice about passing a cactus on the side of the road, the Saguaro Cactus is, in fact, pretty rare. Their natural home spans from western Sonora Mexico to Southern Arizona (with just a few in Southeast Cali). While the Sonoran cactus is a rarity in itself, the Crested Saguaro is even rarer, and it is a sight to see. A fan-like tip on these cacti is a suspected genetic mutation, however, there is some disagreement to the causation. What we do know is that these cacti are definitely picture-worthy and we suggest you check them out yourself! Also, check out some of the best hiking trails to see wildflowers in Phoenix!
Sentinel Peak
1001 S Sentinel Peak Rd, Tucson, AZ 85745
Southwest of downtown Tucson, Sentinel Peak or “A” Mountain is a pretty popular spot in Tucson. Many Tucsonans head up to Sentinel Peak for views of the sunset, hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. If you’re looking for a crested saguaro, you can find one on the roadside as it passes under the “A” Mountain Gazebo.
Maeveen Behan Desert Sanctuary Trailhead
9201 N Thornydale Rd, Tucson, AZ 85742
You can find another very large crested saguaro at the Maeveen Behan Desert Sanctuary Trailhead. This beautiful trailhead, located on Thornydale Road, provides access to six miles of trails in southern Arthur Pack Regional Park. Walk, bike, run, bring your dog (make sure they are leashed!), and take in the desert views. Don’t forget to take a picture of the giant crested saguaro while you’re at it.
King Canyon Trailhead
2230 N Kinney Rd, Tucson, AZ 85743
Near the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum lies the King Canyon Trailhead on Kinney Road. If you hike along the trail for a mile and a half, you’ll find to your left another beautiful crested saguaro. This one lies only about 75 feet upslope from the trail itself, so it’s easy enough to spot. Keep your eyes open, and you’ll find it with little effort!
Cam-Boh Trail
Coming in at just under five miles, 4.9 to be exact, the Cam-Boh Trail is a moderately challenging hike that is perfect for horseback riding as well as hiking. There is a picnic area where you can cross the road and walk about two minutes down Roadrunner Trail. There, you will find a crested saguaro. It is a smaller one, but it’s very cute and easy to get to.
Saguaro National Park
Although we mentioned specific cristates, Saguaro National Park is home to many more crested saguaros, and if you head out for a hike, you might just spot one. There are about 57 within park boundaries. The park is open 9-5 every day and there are two districts you can visit: the Westside and the Eastside. If you’re searching for crested saguaros, there are slightly more cristates on the Westside according to rangers at SNP. Unfortunately, these desert anomalies live very precarious lives, as their unique shape makes them the subject of poaching and their delicate nature means they are fragile. While observing, make sure to admire these beauties from afar.
