Create an account sign-up-diamond

Start your adventure today.

Already a member? Login

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.
37 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
6.0 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.
1-1.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Be the first to add a review!
Directions to Trailhead

Mica View, Cholla, and Cactus Forest Loop

Measurement:

Download an interactive map and guide on your phone today!

Table of contents

The Mica View, Cholla, and Cactus Forest Loop is a 5.6mi easy hike in Saguaro National Park East in Tucson. This hike is ideal for beginners, families, and hikers seeking a relaxed stroll in nature. You’ll have the mountain and desert views that the park is known for on a route that’s gently undulating and easy to follow. Expect heavy traffic on parts of this trail.

Route Description for Mica View, Cholla, and Cactus Forest Loop

The Mica View, Cholla, and Cactus Forest Loop is a fun hike that makes use of the network of trails in Tucson’s Saguaro National Park East. While this park is known for its higher elevation trails in comparison to Saguaro National Park West, this loop delivers the views without making you work very hard. It’s gently undulating in some parts and flat in others, making it ideal for beginners and families.

The network of trails in this area is well-marked, but if you want to do some adventuring or customize your hike, having a downloaded map on hand could be helpful. Although this is an easy route, make sure you pack water and consider sun protection.

From the trailhead, take Mica View Trail (second from your right). You’ll pass a restroom, go through one junction, and then take a right immediately after to get onto Cactus Forest Trail. Take a left at the fork onto Mesquite Trail. At the fork with Squeeze Pen, go left onto Loma Verde Trail, then stay left soon after onto Cholla Trail. Continue onto Cactus Forest Trail, which will lead you back to the trailhead.

Getting to the Mica View, Cholla, and Cactus Forest Loop Trailhead

The trailhead for the Mica View, Cholla, and Cactus Forest Loop is on E Broadway Boulevard.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    October-May

  • Pets allowed:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Good

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Loop

Mica View, Cholla, and Cactus Forest Loop Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

Reviews

0.0
No reviews
Write a review
×

Add a review

You must be logged in to post a comment.

WE ARE HERE TO HELP

Let someone else do the hard work, book a custom tour in over 85 countries.

Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!

10Adventures Trail App

Take your trails online! Keep track of your route along the way.

Download for free today.

Get travel inspiration and discounts

Join our weekly travel newsletter