“Shiva”, the 80-Armed Saguaro

Guide to Visiting “Shiva”, the 80-Armed Saguaro

With an abundance of eye-catching desertscapes, Ironwood Forest National Monument is home to one of the most iconic saguaro cacti in the southwest. This magnificent 80-armed Saguaro is known as “Shiva”.

Where did it get the name “Shiva”?
Where can I find the 80-armed saguaro?
Will I need four-wheel drive?
Are there bathrooms or water stations?
How close can I get?
Where can I eat along the way?
Is there cell service in the Monument?
Are permits required?
Ironwood Forest National Monument 25th anniversary
Planning you next trip to Marana?

Use this guide if you plan on visiting Ironwood Forest National Monument and want to get a glimpse of the iconic Saguaro safely and in the appropriate area.

Where did it get the name “Shiva”?

The 80-armed saguaro got its name from the Friends of the Ironwood Forest, a non-profit group. This organization works to protect the natural, cultural, and historical features of Ironwood Forest National Monument by educating people, engaging with the community, and advocating for its preservation.

The name “Shiva” could have been chosen because it resembles images from Hinduism of "Shiva", who is sometimes shown with many arms. The name is a visual and cultural reference due to the cactus’ large number of arms.

How to get to the 80-armed Saguaro in Ironwood Forest National Monument

Where can I find the 80-armed saguaro?

Whether you’re coming eastbound or westbound on Interstate 10, you’ll want to take Exit 242 onto Avra Valley Road.

The saguaro is approximately 17 miles west of the Interstate, and you will stay on Avra Valley Road the entire time.

Traveling on Avra Valley Road, you will pass Marana Regional Airport. Past the airport, continue on Avra Valley Road for 12 more miles.

Click Here to Navigate to "Shiva"

There is no marked location for "Shiva", however, once you pass the airport, you will cross two cattle guards along the way. A cattle guard is a barrier designed to prevent livestock from crossing, while allowing vehicles to pass freely.

After the second cattle guard, “Shiva” will appear on the left-hand side of the roadway, facing south.

It is important to note that, while it is within Ironwood Forest National Monument, the 80-armed saguaro resides on private property and has a no trespassing policy, with a sign posted at the dirt road entrance to the cactus.

Safely make a U-turn and park on the dirt on the same side of the road as "Shiva".

The dirt alongside the roadway is not private property and makes for a safe way to admire "Shiva" from a distance without trespassing.

Snap a picture or two and be sure to tag #DiscoverMarana

Will I need four-wheel drive?

This part of Ironwood Forest National Monument doesn’t require 4-wheel drive, however, deeper into the National Monument, there are areas for off-roading and rough dirt roads that do.

Are there bathrooms or water stations in Ironwood Forest National Monument?

The Monument is not-yet developed with visitor facilities, like restrooms and water fountains. You will want to stop beforehand for any restroom needs, and pack plenty of water. Temperatures in the summertime can exceed 105 degrees.

Can I get close to the cactus?

If you are going to see "Shiva", admire the cactus from a distance. Remember, it is located on private property, and trespassing is not allowed. Additionally, Saguaros are shallow-rooted, and too much foot traffic can lead to soil compaction and damaged roots.

Are there places to get food along the way?

Yes! If you are heading into or out of Ironwood Forest National Monument, there are two delicious local options nearby. If you are craving a breakfast burrito or authentic Mexican food for lunch, swing by Casa Rodriguez; they also have a mini market inside.

You can always count on a good, old-fashioned breakfast or a juicy hamburger for lunch at Sky Rider Cafe, located at Marana Regional Airport. Watch the airplanes take off and land, and see why Sky Rider is a Taste of Marana STANDOUT Award Recipient.

Is there cell service in Ironwood Forest National Monument?

Cell service can be spotty within the National Monument. For best safety practices, always notify someone that you are going out into Ironwood Forest National Monument before you start your trip, and be sure to let them know when you plan to return.

You can check on current travel and safety conditions by checking the Bureau of Land Management’s website or by calling (520) 258-7200.

Can I report an incident at the Monument?

To ensure the health and safety of Ironwood Forest National Monument, remember to tread lightly and Leave No Trace. If you see something, say something, and report it to the Bureau of Land Management at 1 (800) 309-7081

Are there permits or fees associated with the visit?

Permits are not required to visit the National Monument. Vehicles are required to stay on existing routes.

Ironwood Forest National Monument 25th Anniversary

In 2025, Discover Marana celebrated Ironwood Forest National Monument's 25th Anniversary as a National Monument. Click here to read more about the Ironwood Forest National Monument sticker and photo competition and see which one won our contest!

Planning you next trip to Marana?

Looking to make a full overnight trip to our area? Tourism blogger Melynda Harrison has a great 2-day itinerary that includes Ironwood Forest National Monument. Fun fact: It wasn't "Shiva", but she did find another cactus with about 40 arms.

This itinerary/blog post showcases local businesses in our community. We feature partners that serve food and drink, offer recreational opportunities, places to stay, and shopping. We value accuracy, fairness and balance in our advertising and marketing. We would love to showcase your business to our visitors. These advertising and marketing opportunities (social media, articles, website, and ads) are open to all businesses within Marana and the designated two-mile “Pima County Tourism Partner Zone” around the town limits that meet this criteria. If you want to be featured on our website or in social media, please contact us at MaranaInfo@Maranaaz.gov.

Brandon Mejia

Author

Brandon Mejia

Tourism Marketing Specialist

Brandon is a product of the Marana Unified School District and proud Arizona Alumni. His multi-faceted background includes radio and television news, social media distribution, public affairs and communications. He loves spending time outdoors playing in his slow-pitch softball leagues, golfing at Quarry Pines, and being an avid cross-fitter at his local gym, CrossFit Onward.
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Ironwood Forest National Monument

Taking its name from one of the longest living trees in the Arizona desert, the Ironwood Forest National Monument is a true Sonoran Desert showcase. Keeping company with the ironwood trees are mesquite, paloverde, creosote, and saguaro. The Silver Bell, Waterman and Sawtooth are rugged mountain ranges, from 1,800 to more than 4,200 feet in elevation. Desert valleys filled with diverse wildlife, such as pronghorn and mule deer, complete the setting.

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