The desert reveals a different sort of beauty in the hours of darkness — and an upcoming night-drive event at Saguaro National Park East will highlight the nocturnal wonders.
Park rangers plan to lead a series of “Holiday Cactus Caravan” tours around the park’s Cactus Forest Loop Drive on the evening of Thursday, Dec. 29.
Participants will drive their own cars — following rangers on tours that will last about 90 minutes and include several stops along the way.
Advance reservations are required for the tours, which begin at 5 p.m., with additional tours leaving every 30 minutes from the park visitor center until the last tour at 8 p.m.
“I would encourage people to sign up as soon as possible,” said park ranger Melanie Florez, noting that each tour will accommodate six to seven vehicles. “Some of the tours are already full, so people should not delay if they want to get on a tour.”
EXPLORING THE NIGHT
The Cactus Caravan will focus on the natural history and human lore of the winter solstice, park officials said.
Tours will include several stops including a quarter-mile walk on a fully accessible trail. At overlooks along the way, tour leaders will explore star-filled skies over the park’s wilderness, the symbolism of evergreen plants in the winter season, and the importance of the park’s wildlife.
“It’s a very special evening with a little crisper air and the beautiful stars,” Florez said. “I think it’s going to be a dark evening with not much moon out. There’s a real holiday feeling to it.”
Tour participants are advised to bring a flashlight for use at stops, carry water and snacks in the car and dress for the night’s weather, as the tours will be held come star-shine or rain.
There is no charge for taking a tour, but regular park entrance fees of $10 per vehicle will be in effect.
Free hot cider and cookies will be available at the visitor center before and after each tour.
