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.

PicturedPetroglyphs in Ironwood Forest National Monument

Celebrating 25 years of National Monument Status

This year celebrates the 25th anniversary of the proclamation creating the Ironwood Forest National Monument. It was one of the first national monuments established as part of the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) National Conservation Lands system. National Conservation Lands represent the most ecologically significant and exceptionally unique landscapes. Ironwood Forest National Monument is home to a rich ecological, cultural, and historical landscape.

In August of 2025, the Marana Town Council reaffirmed its support for the Ironwood Forest National Monument and voted unanimously to oppose any reduction of its boundaries for resource extraction.

PicturedBackcountry Camping in Ironwood Forest National Monument

Ironwood Forest National Monument is home to a spectacular 80-armed saguaro cactus which towers over visitors. It has been nicknamed Shiva, and it's one photo op you won't want to miss. For a guide to find it, visit the Friends of the Ironwood Forest National Monument website or download the PDF guide and map here.

Ironwood Forest National Monument is part of the new 28 million-acre National Conservation Lands. Established in 2000, these lands of exceptional beauty, historical value, cultural significance, and scientific importance, are to be managed with conservation and protection as their primary purpose.

The Monument is not yet developed to include visitor facilities, restrooms, and trails. Roads are unpaved, thus their conditions will vary. Check on the current travel and safety conditions by checking the website or by calling the local Bureau of Land Management office at (520) 258-7200.

Bighorn Sheep in the Monument

Did you know the last indigenous Bighorn Sheep in Southern Arizona live in Ironwood Forest National Monument? Once widespread in the area, these sheep make the area their home in the Silver Bell Mountains and Ragged Top Peak. Note that lambing season runs January through April, which limits hiking in part of the Ironwood Forest National Monument.

PicturedYoung Desert Bighorn Sheep on Waterman Mountain.
CreditScott Hassler

Stargazing

Ironwood Forest National Monuments' secluded location makes it an ideal place for stargazing. Here, you’re far enough away from city lights to experience true dark skies and witness the wonders of the universe firsthand. The Monument is a popular spot for “astrophotography”, or photography of the night sky. The Milky Way is even faintly visible to the naked eye at certain times of year.

This photo is the winner of our Ironwood Forest Photo contest. Learn more about the photographer here.

CreditWendy Islas

Ironwood Trees

The Monument's namesake tree is also one of the most intriguing in the Sonoran Desert. Ironwood Forest National Monument is home to the world's largest stand of Ironwood trees, which can live as long as 1,200 years and grow to over 45 feet tall. They are considered a "keystone species" - they provide a habitat for many bird and other animal species, and shade young plants from the desert heat.

The trees are named for their iron-gray, hard, and dense wood, which is a prized building material for furniture and other sturdy goods. In late April, May, and June, the trees bloom and light up the Monument with a brilliant splash of pink.

CreditJohn Woodin

Ragged Top

Ragged Top is Ironwood Forest National Monument's signature peak, which can be seen on the western horizon as you drive around northwest Marana. The jagged, iconic mountain soars above the ironwood trees and saguaro cacti below. You can hike up it - but make sure to bring your climbing skills, spirit of adventure, and know your limits.

The mountain is a biodiversity hotspot, supporting hundreds of plant and animal species -- it's a great place to see bighorn sheep and Sonoran Desert tortoises, among many others.

Ragged Top is the star of many photos of the Monument, such as this one of the sunrise glow reflected on the peak by Vincent Senski.

CreditVincent Senski

Backcountry Camping

Escape to the 120,000-acre Ironwood Forest National Monument for a true desert adventure.

Dispersed camping here means no facilities—just stunning desert landscapes, towering ironwood trees, and a sky full of stars.

Remember to pack all supplies, follow Leave No Trace principles, and enjoy up to 14 days of primitive camping in solitude.

Credit@TheAZHikeaholics (via Instagram)

Bike It

Mountain biking in the Ironwood Forest is a thrilling adventure -- but be prepared for anything. This isn't a trip to take solo, or without careful planning.

We've found some great resources:

Hike it

Hiking in the Ironwood also requires planning. The Waterman Mountains and Ragged Top and Silverbell Mountains are great options.

Wing It

If you love birding you'll find 70 species of birds in the Ironwood Forest! You'll find Quail, Verdin, Roadrunners, several varieties of Hawks, and the Crested Caracara among many others.

Silver Bell Mountains Scenic Drive in Marana

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