Boyce Thompson Arboretum

The Boyce Thompson Arboretum is Arizona's oldest and largest botanical garden, tucked against the rocky cliffs of the Tonto National Forest near Superior. Founded by copper-mining magnate William Boyce Thompson in the early 20th century, the site was conceived as a research station for plants adapted to arid environments — a mission still visible in its exceptional collections of Sonoran Desert cacti, agaves, and drought-tolerant species from desert regions worldwide. Several marked nature trails wind through the grounds at varying difficulty levels. Seasonal hours apply: summer visits start as early as 6 a.m. to beat the Arizona heat, with the garden closing by mid-afternoon.