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#5 on this list
Saguaro National Park
Arizona
Pleasant desert walking returns as the heat breaks.
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#6 on this list
Sedona
Arizona
Cool, clear days on the red rocks; golden cottonwoods in Oak Creek.
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Saguaro National Park | Sedona |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Pima County, Arizona | — |
| Districts | Tucson Mountain (West) & Rincon Mountain (East) | — |
| Elevation Range | 2,180 to 8,666 feet | — |
| November Average | High 73°F / Low 45°F | — |
| Trail Mileage | Over 165 maintained trail miles | — |
| Camping | East District wilderness sites only; permit needed | — |
| Base Elevation | — | 4,350 feet |
| Land Manager | — | Coconino National Forest (Red Rock Ranger District) |
| November Temps | — | Highs around 64°F, lows around 38°F |
| Required Pass | — | Red Rock Pass or America the Beautiful Interagency Pass |
| Primary Hazards | — | Trailhead congestion, cold creek crossings, slick frost |
| Peak Foliage | — | Late October through mid-November in Oak Creek Canyon |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Saguaro National Park
- Ideal daytime temperatures in the 70s throughout November
- Spectacular, dense stands of mature saguaro cactus forests
- Convenient access to trailheads from Tucson amenities
- High-elevation wilderness backpacking available in the eastern district
- A 45-minute urban commute separates the two distinct units
- Zero reliable natural water sources along lower-elevation trails
- City skyline and residential borders visible from many frontcountry routes
Sedona
- Daytime temperatures are optimal for hard climbing and distance running
- Sandstone offers maximum dry traction for boots and bike tires
- Oak Creek delivers vivid golden foliage against red rock walls
- Flash flood risks are drastically lower than during summer monsoons
- Severe vehicle congestion on Highway 179 and core trailheads
- Rapid post-sunset temperature drops catch unprepared hikers off guard
- High local lodging and camping fees across the Verde Valley
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