From Highway 78 close to mile 84, drive the Kane Spring Road for 2.7 mile. You need an AWD, some ground clearance.
The cactus garden is one of the best places to see cacti.
The cactus garden is located in the rocky wash of Harper Canyon.
On Highway 78 close to mile 84, drive the Kane Spring Road for 2.7 mile.
The road is sand, with some small rocks further on. (higher clearance)
At the crossing, turn right towards Harper Canyon (this part has more loose sand, 4x4 recommended).
Park at the signed Cactus Garden (0.3 mile).
There is no trail, just follow the washes and rocks, explore.
The cacti are mostly south (toward Harper Canyon).
You could drive further on the road, but the road gets rockier, thus more difficult.
Drive back, turn right and turn left again on an unmarked crossing.
This part is more sandy and a 4x4 is recommended, but I've seen regular cars at this point.
The road back to the highway is sand, flat and easy to drive, except for the sand.
The shorter route:
On HWY 78 mile 87.1 turn south, the road may be marked as Bute Pass Rd, next to to the dirt road there is a 4x4 recommended sign.
At the end turn right and after a short while turn left.
Park at the signed Cactus Garden (0.3 mile).
A higher clearance, 4x4 is recommended for this trip.
Cacti will start blooming (barrels) sometimes as early as February.
The chollas start blooming early April.
The end of March or April is the best time.
Photo's are from mid April 2012.
Warning: A comb and pincers are recommended, if you meet a jumping cholla. They are very difficult to remove otherwise.