Arizona is known for its stunning desert landscapes and iconic cacti. Among these, a few have gained fame for their unique characteristics. One particularly notable saguaro is the Climbing Cactus. Despite its popularity, the exact location of the Climbing Cactus remains a mystery, often leading adventurers to the wrong destination. Itโs time to clear up the confusion and provide its precise location for all the brave souls eager to find this elusive cactus.
Three Iconic Cacti
Among the Arizona community, three iconic cacti are well-known to the locals: 1.) Kissing Cactus, 2.) T-Rex Cactus, and 3.) Climbing Cactus. Images of these unique saguaros often make their way onto social media, sparking interest and a desire to experience them firsthand.
Unfortunately, misinformation frequently spreads online, from protective locals or people unintentionally sharing incorrect details. The Arizona desert can be hot and deadly, so itโs crucial not to send people on a wild goose chase in such a dangerous environment. However, if youโre looking for some crazy fun check out one of these wild Jeep/UTV tours in the Sonoran Desert!
Take, for example, the case of the Kissing Cactus. A local named Ken Carter posted the original viral photo on Facebook. He claimed that Marine training like his was needed when people asked how to find the Kissing Cactus. However, after our investigative research, the cactus sits only about a 1/2 mile from the parking site.
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Climbing Cactus โ Hereโs the Location
Southern Arizonaโs distinctive landscape is filled with saguaro cacti and rocky hills as seen in Tucsonโs Sabino Canyon Recreation Area and Saguaro National Park. This leads many to assume that the Climbing Cactus is located in one of these areas where cacti are abundant and often photographed.
![](https://www.thebudgetsavvytravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/Arizonas-Climbing-Cactus-What-to-Expect-at-Sheep-Bridge.jpg)
However, the Climbing Cactus is located near Sheep Bridge, a remote recreation site, considered the gateway to the west side of the Mazatzal Wilderness.
What to Expect on the Drive
Sheep Bridge can be accessed via a long drive on primitive roads. The first section of the route is described as a typical rocky Arizona driving road. However, the last 12 miles are known to be rough and a 4X4 or high-clearance vehicle is needed. Visitors warn that low-riding vehicles will bottom out.
During the rainy season, drivers must cross some creeks and the path becomes muddy. Estimate about three hours in and three hours back to make the trip. Carefree and Cave Creek are the closest towns to Sheep Bridge.
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Things to See and Do at Sheep Bridge
Sheep Bridge, located in the Tonto National Forest of Arizona, offers a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Once at the campsite, visitors can swim, hike, fish, or go ATVing. There is a rope swing above the Verde River and geocaching trails. Other points of interest include the historic Sheep Bridge, the Climbing Cactus, and sulfur hot springs.
Where to Find Up-to-Date Information
AllTrails is a great resource for all things outdoors. With posted reviews from people who have made the trek, the site provides up-to-date information about the hikes, terrain conditions, and drive to Sheeps Bridge.
How to Find the Climbing Cactus
Once at Sheep Bridge, follow these steps to find the Climbing Cactus. Continuing down the path brings you to the manmade hot spring tub.
1. Locate the Bridge: Starting at the bridge.
2. Head West: Move to the west side of the river.
3. Find the Trail or Cross the Bridge: Look for the trail at the base of the west side of the bridge. This trail runs along the cliff face. Alternatively, the Climbing Cactus can be observed from the bridge. Look toward the red arrow as illustrated above.
4. Spot the Climbing Cactus: You will see the Climbing Cactus on the rock face. The oddly shaped saguaro is easy to spot against the red backdrop. The Climbing Cactus is considered one of Arizonaโs most unusual saguaros.
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To Reach the Hot Springs: Keep following the trail until you find a manmade, hot-tub-size stone enclosure. Also, the quality and clarity of the bathing pool water varies greatly. Finally, some visitors describe it as too foul-smelling to enjoy.
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