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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
50 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
8.2 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1.5-2h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Cactus Forest, Squeeze Pen, and Pink Hill Loop

Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Cactus Forest, Squeeze Pen, and Pink Hill Loop is an easy trail in Tucson’s Saguaro National Park East. This route mostly has pretty desert vegetation to appreciate, so the beauty is more in the small things than in big, impressive views on this one. Try to time it for when the creosote is blooming for the best experience. This route generally sees moderate to heavy traffic.

Route Description for Cactus Forest, Squeeze Pen, and Pink Hill Loop

The Cactus Forest, Squeeze Pen, and Pink Hill Loop is an easy hike in Saguaro National Park East in Tucson, showing off the varied plants that line these desert trails. This route is great for hikers of all levels. Families with kids can enjoy this trail thanks to its lack of elevation gain. Note that dogs are not permitted on the trails in Saguaro National Park East.

This route gets quite hot in the summer months, so we recommend avoiding it when temperatures are at their highest. Early morning hikes are ideal, but no matter when you visit, bring plenty of water and consider wearing sun protection.

From the trailhead near the road, take Cactus Forest Trail, the route second to your left. Go straight through the first junction and then go left at the junction with Cholla Trail. Go left at the fork with Loma Verde onto Squeeze Pen. Head north and go left onto Pink Hill Trail where it branches off. Stay left and then right. This route will return you to the trailhead.

Getting to the Cactus Forest, Squeeze Pen, and Pink Hill Loop Trailhead

The trailhead for the Cactus Forest, Squeeze Pen, and Pink Hill Loop is off E Broadway Boulevard.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    October-May

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Loop

Cactus Forest, Squeeze Pen, and Pink Hill Loop Elevation Graph

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