Freeman Homestead Trail

Freeman Homestead Trail is an easy lollipop loop located in the Rincon Mountain District of Saguaro National Park. This trail is 1 mile long and has very little elevation gain. Along the way, hikers will encounter a variety of cactus species, including saguaros, cholla, and prickly pear. There is also educational information about the various plants of the Sonoran Desert.

This hike begins at the Freeman Homestead Trailhead. From here, you will hike 0.1 miles amongst creosote bushes before encountering a junction. This is the beginning of the loop. Stay right to take the loop counterclockwise.

Shortly after the junction, you will find the site of the Freeman Homestead. The Freeman family claimed this land in 1929 through the Homestead Act. In 1951, the Freeman’s sold the land to the United States Government. They built a home there but it is no longer standing. Only ruins remain. There are also benches near the site if you need to take a rest.

Continuing on the trail, you will encounter many signs identifying trees, shrubs, and cacti. The signs also contain basic information about the plants. After about 0.5 miles of hiking, you are about halfway done with the hike and will begin hiking in a wash. The wash quickly leads back to a trail. After 0.4 miles long, you have reached the end of the loop and will take a right at the junction to return to the trailhead.

Freeman Homestead Trail is open year-round and it costs $25 for a one-week vehicle pass to enter Saguaro National Park. Dogs are not allowed on this trail. Freeman Homestead Trail is an easy, but worthwhile endeavor for hikers of all abilities. It is not only an opportunity to learn, but it also allows you to explore the beauty of Saguaro National Park.