Location Spotlight: Maeveen Behan Desert Sanctuary

As a passionate photographer who is always on the lookout for unique and breathtaking locations for photo sessions, I stumbled upon a real treasure – the Maeveen Behan Desert Sanctuary. This discovery wouldn’t have been possible without my friend Lisa, whose recommendation opened the doors to this magnificent place.

Since I’m stationed on the east side of town, the northern area of Tucson isn’t usually a place I explore. However, it’s worth the trek! Here’s why:

Nestled near Arthur Pack Park, Maeveen Behan Desert Sanctuary is a hidden gem that many people don’t know about. This relatively undiscovered spot is perfect for those seeking a peaceful and scenic backdrop for their photographs. Unlike some of the busier trails, the paths here are pretty quiet, which lets us capture serene moments without interruption.

One of the most striking features of this sanctuary is the stunning view of the Catalina Mountains. These magical peaks might just be what your photos have been missing. Better yet, the trail itself is so photographer-friendly. It’s so easy to walk and is fairly flat, which is great for both casual and more prepared photo sessions.

The neutrality of the landscape here at Maeveen Behan Desert Sanctuary is its own unique advantage. With the subtle and natural colors of the desert, you can play with any color scheme or theme for your shoot.

Of course, it’s the desert, so cacti are part of the scenery. They mostly line the off-trail areas, adding to the authentic desert vibe. Safety is always a priority, and I ensure that we maintain a respectful distance so that no one gets poked.

The lighting at the sanctuary is simply magical, especially during sunrise and sunset. These times of the day bring out the best in the desert landscape, casting a perfect glow that can make any photo session feel like a dream.

However, it’s good to note that the parking lot at the sanctuary is quite small, with space for maybe 7-8 cars. Don’t let this deter you! There are also additional parking options a walkable distance away.

The Maeveen Behan Desert Sanctuary is a great photo session location with serene trails, stunning mountain views, and the natural beauty of the desert. I look forward to capturing many more beautiful moments here, so if you’re interested, don’t hesitate to contact me!