Do you have enough water? Do you have sunscreen? E...

Do you have enough water? Do you have sunscreen? Even if it's winter, make sure you have both. A good hat is also highly recommended. When you walk into the desert, the goal is to walk back out.

Beyond the basics mentioned above, it's a lovely, if sometimes extreme, place. The saguaros this national are abundant and bloom in April and May. Water can be found in the washes and small canyons after rain. (During monsoon season, do not linger in the washes or small canyons.)

The high regions are lovely and not desert, ranging from oak forests to pine forests. It is a long hike up.