Full slate of activities at Saguaro National Park this November/Kurt Repanshek

What's going on at Saguaro National Park this month? Let's take a quick look.

Naturalist Programs at Tucson Mountain District (West, 2700 N. Kinney Road):

November 21    1:45 p.m.      Wasson Peak                Moon Hike: 7 hours, 8 miles roundtrip

This hike climbs 1,700 feet to the highest point in the Tucson Mountains. Enjoy a 360-degree view of the sunset before descending by the light of the moon. The hike is at an easy-to-moderate pace but is considered difficult due to elevation gain and hiking after dark. Ages 12 and older.  Reservations required;733-5158

November 22     3:45 p.m.     Twilight Glow to Moon Shadows  Moon hike: 3 1/3 hours, 3 ½ miles

This walk bridges sunset into moonlight, letting hikers experience the desert in both the glow of twilight and the light of the waxing moon. It ascends a hill with a gentle, packed slope, then changes trails to descend a sandy wash. The hike is completed with a return on a dirt road. Ages 10 and older. Reservations required: 733-5158.

November 23    3:00 p.m.    Sunset Hike        Moon Hike: 3 1/3 hours, 2 ½ miles

Discussions of water, geology, and plants will be highlights of mini-talks along this route, which gains 700 feet (with some switchbacks near the top) before reaching a ridgeline for sunset. The descent is by the light of the moon. Ages 10 and older.  Reservations required;733-5158

November 25      6:00 p.m.    Moonrise Over The Mountains  Night Patio Presentation: 45 minutes

Once again, music will fill the air as we watch the full moon rise over the mountains and the cactus forest while our version of a "campfire" blazes. Guitarist-singer-songwriter Mark William will perform, as will Native American flute player Robert Hval. Please bring a folding chair and a blanket or jacket, as the evening may be chilly. All ages welcome; no pets or picnics, please. Wheelchair accessible. No reservations necessary.

November 2, 5,  9, 12, 16, 19, 26, 30   11:15 a.m.  Spiny, Shady, and COOL! Walk: 30 minutes, 100 yards

November 6, 20                              10:15 a.m.    
Come for a short walk and discover the great variety of cacti that inhabit this unique and fascinating desert.

November 10, 24    3:15 p.m.    Whales in the Desert   Talk: 45 minutes

Learn about the unique connection between whales and the Sonoran Desert. Wheelchair accessible.

November 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28    11:15 a.m.     Play Sonoran Desert Bingo!   Game: 1 hour

Learn about the plants and animals of the Sonoran Desert while enjoying a rousing version of Bingo! Get five in a row – down, across, or diagonally – and win a non-monetary prize. First come, first served. Wheelchair accessible.

Naturalist Programs at the Rincon Mountain District (East, 3693 S. Old Spanish Trail):

November 7 & 28         10:00 a.m.        Sharing the Desert's Stories    Activity

Children 5 to 10 years of age and parents are invited to come join us in the visitor center auditorium as we bring some of the Sonoran Desert's stories to life. This month's theme will be Desert Creatures. Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling (520) 733-5153. Wheelchair accessible.

November 7 & 28         1:00 p.m.         The Point of the Matter is Cactus        Presentation

                  18                11:00 a.m.

Cactus are much more than strange plants with spines. They are uniquely equipped to thrive in the desert environment, and every year bloom with spectacular flowers. This theater presentation will highlight these survival marvels with a beautiful photo gallery. Wheelchair accessible. 

November 7, 14, 28      2:30 p.m.         Living in a Cactus Forest

Our "Cactus Forest" was protected as a National Monument in 1933. But that doesn't mean it hasn't changed. Take an easy stroll through this desert preserve to learn about the past AND discuss the future of your National Park and the growing Tucson community.

November 11               11:00 a.m.        A Sticky Situation at Saguaro              Presentation

                   21               1:00 p.m.

Here at Saguaro National Park East we have 20 species of cactus and each is beautiful in its own way. Finding them all can be a challenge, but we will see each one in a stunning photo gallery and learn a few uses these plants have to those living here and beyond. Theater presentation. Wheelchair accessible.

November 12 & 19       10:00 a.m.        Lime Kilns Tour          2 mile hike

Come explore two of the park's historic lime kilns on this easy 2-mile hike. Park staff will share the history of the lime kiln industry and its effects on Saguaro National Park. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water.

November 12               7:00 p.m.         StarParty        illustrated program &activity

Join park naturalists for an introduction to astronomy and a look at the desert night sky. Telescopes and binoculars will be available. Reservations required. Call 733-5153. Wheelchair accessible.

November 13 & 27       7:00 p.m.         Night Walk                  1 mile guided walk

Join a park naturalist for this easy two-hour hike to explore and experience the Sonoran Desert at night. Dress for the weather, wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring water and a flashlight. As space is limited, advanced reservations are required, and can be made by calling 733-5153.

November 15, 29         2:30 p.m.         Visitor's/Naturalist's Choice                1.5 mileGuided Walk

Here's your chance to take a walk with a ranger with twenty years' experience in the Sonoran Desert. Bring your favorite question or topic, or just enjoy the best stories of the day: wildlife, wildflowers, or wilderness, as the weather and the seasons change. Sturdy shoes and water are recommended.

November 28               9:00 a.m.         Young Adult Hiking Club        5-mile hike

Young adults 18 years and older are invited to come hike off that turkey dinner with a park ranger. The emphasis will be fitness and fun. Space is limited, so reserve your spot early by calling the visitor center at (520) 733-5153. Wear comfortable walking/hiking shoes; bring water and a light trail snack.

Visitor Center Locations/Phone Numbers

Both visitor centers are open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Christmas Day.

Red Hills Visitor Center (Saguaro WEST)                      Rincon Mountain Visitor Center (Saguaro EAST)

2700 North Kinney Road                                                 3693 South Old Spanish Trail

Tucson, AZ 85743                                                           Tucson, AZ 85730

(520) 733-5158                                                                (520) 733-5153