Shiva Cactus (Ironwood Forest National Monument, AZ)
Also known as the 80-Arm Cactus, Shiva is one of the most striking saguaros in the Sonoran Desert — a massive, multi-armed giant that looks more like a sculpture than a plant. Its unusually high number of arms is rare and thought to be caused by hormonal or genetic mutation.

⚠️ Please stay at least 30 feet away. Saguaros have shallow, exposed root systems that can extend far beyond the base, and stepping too close can cause irreversible damage. This special cactus already has visible exposed roots you need to avoid.

No hiking required, as this is just a pull-off from the highway. You will see a pull-off onto a service road on the left side of the highway where you can park and hike around the Shiva. We parked here: 32.370597, -111.407172.

Exact coordinates for the Shiva: 32°22'14.4"N 111°24'27.0"W