Picacho Peak + Wildflowers

Picacho Peak rising from the fog in the distance

“Picacho Peak is arguably one of the best spots to see blooming wildflowers and cactus in Arizona…”

Picacho Peak in the background of a field of wildflowers — Picacho Peak during wildflower season. Via Picacho Peak State Park.

If you’ve ever driven I-10 from Phoenix to Tucson (or vice versa), it would be hard not to notice the distinctive shape of Picacho Peak rising from the desert floor.

It’s the center of an Arizona state park and a great spot to see spring wildflowers!

Peak Wildflower Season

“…Experience the trails as they wind through a colorful sea of yellow, orange, purple, and red wildflowers.”

–Arizona State Parks

Superbloom

We visited during the 2023 superbloom year, when Picacho Peak was absolutely carpeted in golden poppies and purple lupine!

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February 24, 2021April 28, 2026

Tohono Chul

Tohono Chul is a nature preserve just north of Tucson. On its 49 acres, you can find art, shops, gardens, a bistro, and lots of paths winding through the desert.

A Desert Corner

The name comes from the words for “desert corner” in the language of the Tohono O’odham (“desert people”), who are the ancestral inhabitants of this region.

I’d heard about this beautiful place from my Master Gardener uncle long before we moved to Tucson. For awhile I thought it was called “Tohono Jewel.” It is a gem of a place, so that fits too.
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August 18, 2016December 9, 2025

Where to Stop for Date Shakes on California Road Trips

We don’t order date shakes at home in Phoenix. We could. There are a couple places that serve them, since date palms grow here.

But we only look for them on road trips through a certain western Arizona/eastern California corridor.
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