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SAGUARO WEST (TUCSON MOUNTAIN DISTRICT)
THE BAJADA LOOP DRIVE
The Bajada Loop drive is a 6-mile graded dirt road. The road is well-maintained and is suitable for cars. We drove a Toyota Camry and had no issues on this road.
Two roads form the Bajada Loop Drive: Hohokam Road and Golden Gate Road.
There are several notable viewpoints along the way, which I will get to in just a minute. But first you need to know which way to drive the loop in order to avoid backtracking.
Part of the Bajada Loop Drive is one way only (the second half of Hohokam Road). In order to drive it as a loop, you need to drive counterclockwise.
To start the drive, turn right from N Kinney Road onto Hohokam Road. Hohokam Road ends at Golden Gate Road. To complete the loop, turn left onto Golden Gate Road and then drive until it ends at N Sandario Road.
Most of the road is wide enough for two cars to pass. The only place that is narrow is the second half of Hohokam Road, which is why it is one-way here.
IMPORTANT! Flash floods and rain can make this road impassable, even if you have a 4×4. If it has rained, or if rainfall is in the forecast, check conditions on the national park website or at the visitor center to see if the road is open.
VALLEY VIEW OVERLOOK TRAIL
Distance: 0.8 miles round trip
Location: Bajada Loop Drive, Hohokam Road
On this short, easy walking trail, get up close to the Saguaro cactus, prickly pears, and ironwood trees. Continue to the end of the trail for a great viewpoint of the park.
This was one of our favorite walks in the park since we walked through one of the densest populations of cacti. Plus, it’s flat and easy and great for all ages.
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