Tucson, AZ is home to the nation's largest cacti. The giant saguaro is the universal symbol of the American west. These majestic plants, found only in a small portion of the United States, are protected by Saguaro National Park, to the east and west of the city of Tucson.  Cactus Forest Drive (originally designated Skyline Loop Road) was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) between 1936 and 1939.  The park’s two districts are separated by the city's 1 million residents. The Tucson Mountain District (TMD) on the west (where this picture was taken), and the Rincon Mountain District (RMD) to the east, are approximately 30 miles (45-60 minutes) apart. While similar in terms of plants and animals, the intricate details make both areas praiseworthy. The TMD (west) boasts large stands of saguaro cactus creating a breathtaking saguaro forest, whereas the RMD (east) hosts a magnificent sky island, where you can find bears, cougars and the ever-elusive coati (aka coatimundi).