You will also notice signs of old mines in this area, before you reach the final stretch of the loop. I would recommend starting this hike a little earlier. right to head back to the cars. Wasson Peak via The Sendero Esperanza and Hugh Norris Trails, Ironwood Forest Trail to Picture Rocks Wash, Tucson Mountain District: Gould Mine Loop, Rincon Mountain District: Juniper Basin and Tanque Verde Peak, N32 17.069 W111 10.029 — Sendero Esperanza Trailhead. Sendero Esperanza Trail to the Ridge/ To Wasson Peak (3.4-8 miles, 220-1600 feet elevation) Take the Sendero-Esperanza trail to the Hugh Norris trail junction on the ridgeline. Continue on Kinney Road 2 miles to Sandario
Here saguaro forests yield to grassy hillsides, yucca, jojoba and various shrubs not found lower on the trail. Sendero Esperanza Trail - Saguaro NP West. Saguaro National Park Tucson Mountain District Tucson, Arizona. Tortolitas - Honeybee Canyon— I have yet to hike the Tortolitas but heard that the short Honeybee trails have cool petroglyphs to check out if you're in the area. corner). From the Peak looking at the trail & Avra Valley. Turn left on Sendero Esperanza which is a bit rocky but continues down past the picnic spot to the dry river bed. The Hugh Norris Trail and Wasson Peak summit are fully exposed to sun and heat. Stop
Wasson Peak via The Gould Mine, Sendero Esperanza and Hugh Norris Trails; Sendero Esperanza Trail to the Gould Mine Loop - 8.1 Miles Round-Trip The Sendero Esperanza Trail and Gould Mine Trail join to form an 8.1 lollipop loop through the Tucson Mountain District of Saguaro National Park. Wasson Peak via Hugh Norris Trail and Sendero Esperanza Trail . I decided on the longer hike…I felt I could at least try. Sendero Esperanza Trail (3.2 miles, one way) This trailhead is approximately 6 miles from the Red Hills Visitor Center, 1.5 miles east of the intersection of Hohokam Road and Golden Gate Road. There are a few ways to reach the summit including the Sweetwater trail from the east and the Hugh Norris and the Sendero Esperanza trails from the west. Wasson Peak via The Sendero Esperanza and Hugh Norris Trails - 7.9 Miles Round-Trip The Sendero Esperanza and Hugh Norris trails join to form the shortest and perhaps most lightly used route to Wasson Peak, the Tucson Mountain District's highest point. We took the King's Canyon Trail to the Sweetwater Trail, then the final .3 of a mile up to the peak. You can download a trail map on the Saguaro
The trail starts at the hitching rail at the south end of the parking area. The peak is notable for its forest of saguaro cactus, which cover the mountain from base to peak. scenic loop hike to Wasson Peak via Hugh Norris, King Canyon, and Sendero
Way about 5 miles to Kinney Road (stoplight with McDonalds on the northeast
Total mileage round trip is 7.8 with about 1520 feet of elevation gain. The first mile is relatively flat, but quickly ascends up switch backs (220 feet elevation) towards the ridge. Wasson Peak is off the beaten path so mostly locals do this hike; it's never crowded. As I pull into the Sendero Esperanza trailhead the last few stars are giving way to a faint glow on the far side of Wasson Peak. The most humane way up to Wasson Peak is to take the Sendero Esperanza trail to the junction with Hugh Norris. (Golden Age) HIKE LIMIT: 18, MOUNTAIN RANGE: Tucson HIKABLE
Turn right (north) onto Kinney Road and drive north past the Arizona-Sonora
junction turn left (east) and take the Hugh Norris Trail to Wasson Peak (2.2 miles). I had a wonderful hike and experienced wildflower-induced giddiness that lasted all day! Panther Peak and Sombrero Peak, Saguaro National Park – West in the Tucson Mountains northeast of Tucson, Arizona. Once you've enjoyed the views from Wasson Peak, backtrack and then head down the Hugh Norris Trail - a sandy, and fun trail. the Sendero Esperanza trailhead. The most humane way up to Wasson Peak is to take the Sendero Esperanza trail to the junction with Hugh Norris. Wasson Peak is the tallest mountain in the Tucson Mountain District of Saguaro National Park. The first mile is relatively flat, but quickly ascends up switch backs (220 feet elevation) towards the ridge. Wasson Peak via Hugh Norris Trail and Sendero Esperanza Trail. Way about 5 miles to Kinney Road (stoplight with McDonalds on the northeast
Return on the King Canyon Trail to the junction with the Sendero Esperanza Trail
Trail uses the King Canyon, and Sweetwater trails to reach the summit and returns via Hugh Norris, Sendero Esperanza and Gould Mine Trails.It's an excellent hike through the desert, with superb views in all directions.Be prepared to carry water, at least 2 liters is a good idea.For guided hiking trips in Arizona: See AOA-adventures. Will not show on comments list. Road. at the Red Hills Visitor Center approximately 1.8 miles past the Desert Museum. Stars: ... Sendero Esperanza and Gould Mine Trails.It's an excellent hike through the desert, with superb views in all directions.Be prepared to carry water, at least 2 liters is a good idea.For guided hiking trips in Arizona: See AOA-adventures. The view of the valley and Tucson is spectacular from the peak. north-south and crosses the Hugh Norris Trail at a saddle (1.8 miles). Penstemon with Ragged Top in far center. The trail is primarily used for hiking, nature trips, and bird watching and is accessible year-round. Continue down the river bed, also known as the King Canyon Wash. Turn right onto Hohokam Road (also known as the Bajada Loop) and continue to the Golden Gate Road intersection. Turn right (east) and take Golden Gate Road (graded dirt) 4.5 miles to
Great panoramic scenes of the valley come into view. There are a few ways to reach the summit including the Sweetwater trail from the east and the Hugh Norris and the Sendero Esperanza trails from the west. Return on the King Canyon Trail to the junction with the Sendero Esperanza … Portions of this route are heavily used, and afternoon thunderstorms can develop with little warning. : 2,200/4,687 FT. ROUTE TO TRAILHEAD: Take I-19
Wildlife is particularly active in washes that cross this ares. BULLETIN DESCRIPTION: A
on the Hugh Norris Trail to the junction with the Sendero Esperanza Trail and turn
The King Canyon Trailhead was well marked a short walk from the parking lot. the Sendero Esperanza trailhead. Fauna: Nearby : Flora: Nearby : Meteorology: Nearby : Named place: Nearby : Culture: Nearby : breath taking views by desertgirl. Total mileage round trip is 7.8 with about 1520 feet of elevation gain. Turn right (north) onto Kinney Road and drive north past the Arizona-Sonora
3.2 mi . Instead, we joined together the Hugh Norris, Sendero Esperanza, and Gould Mine (not a typo) trails. Trail Photos The Hugh Norris Trail is the most popular choice for reaching Wasson Peak (4,687'), the highest point in the Tucson Mountain District of Saguaro National Park. There is just a bit of elevation gain, and some beautiful views of the Sonoran Desert. There was actually quite a bit of cool stuff built by the CCC around SNP--picnic shelters, fire pits, etc. We took the Hugh Norris, Sendero Esperanza & Gould Mine trails back. A great hike in great company, topped off with a cold cerveza and a burger at Tiny's Saloon on Ajo Road. COMMENTS: A nice
Road. Getting to the Trailhead north to Ajo Way (Exit 99). good, well signed, and easy to follow. Stay on the Sendero Esperanza Trail back to the cars. MONTHS: NOV thru MAR, TRAVEL MILES: 90 ROAD
4.8 mi -160 ft [ View More!] The most humane way up to Wasson Peak is to take the Sendero Esperanza trail to the junction with Hugh Norris. Sendero Esperanza trail to Wasson Peak. climb that leads to the top of Wasson Peak. The Hugh Norris Trail moderates for the last .3 miles to Wasson Peak (3.95 miles, 4,687'). Turn right (north) and take Sandario Road 0.25 miles to Golden Gate
Wasson Peak via The Sendero Esperanza and Hugh Norris Trails, Trail Map, Saguaro West - Tucson Mountain District: Sendero Esperanza Trailhead, Saguaro National Park, Arizona on the Hugh Norris Trail to the junction with the Sendero Esperanza Trail and turn
A nice loop hike to a popular high point, Wasson Peak. Great panoramic scenes of the valley come into view. Hike along the steep Hugh Norris trail and left up Sendero Esperanza for the next 1.7 miles. Turn left at the stoplight and head west on Ajo
Wasson Peak is most commonly climbed via four trails: Gould Hill Mine-Esperanza Trail. I mean, nothing ventured – nothing gained right? Turn left on Sendero Esperanza which is a bit rocky but continues down past the picnic spot to the dry river bed. A
At this
Take the King Canyon Trail up the the Wasson Peak summit, then follow the Hugh Norris Trail to the junction with the Sendero Esperanza Trail, and then finally onto the Gould Mine Trail, passing an old mine along the way. Posts about Wasson Peak written by yourcameraisnotbigenough. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); You can contact ProTrails directly through our Facebook or Instagram accounts. Road. This trail is a 7.4 mile loop over the summit of Wasson Peak. The total for this group would be 8 miles and 1,700 feet elevation gain. Once you get out of the sand you're in for a steep, quick climb up a series of rocky switchbacks to reach a ridge where Sendero Esperanza intersects with From Golden Gate Road this is a good choice for heading up to Wasson Peak. It can be run in reverse by taking the Sendero Esperanza Trail all
elevation gain). That was a total of 3.5 miles - all uphill, and mostly steep. The first part of the trail on Sendero Esperanza is flat; watch for snakes but enjoy the many different species of cacti. elevation gain). Type: out-and-back. Continue on Kinney Road into Saguaro National Park West. Turn Right (east) and hike for 2.2 miles until reaching the summit. Sendero Esperanza’s wildflowers were great on the switchbacks up to the ridge, but the Hugh Norris Trail is completely carpeted for much of the way to the peak! Return
That was a total of 3.5 miles - all uphill, and mostly steep. PASS REQUIREMENT: US Forest Service
Much of the trail is overgrown with creosote bushes and large prickly pear cacti, but it should be easy to follow the correct path. Wasson Peak via The Sendero Esperanza and Hugh Norris Trails, Trail Map, Saguaro West - Tucson Mountain District: Sendero Esperanza Trailhead, Saguaro National Park, Arizona Wasson Peak via The Sendero Esperanza and Hugh Norris Trails - 7.9 Miles At this
National Park website at https://www.nps.gov/sagu/index.htm. A nice
3.2 mi OW + 548 feet elevation The Sendero Esperanza Trail is 3.2 miles long and is the major North-South Trail connecting the King Canyon Trail in the south to Golden Gate Road to... Sendero Esperanza Trail - Saguaro NP West, AZ | HikeArizona Panoramas from the summit include Brown Mountain and Golden Gate Mountain (4,288') to the south, and the Rincon and Santa Catalina ranges to the east. It can be run in reverse by taking the Sendero Esperanza Trail all
scenic loop hike to Wasson Peak via Hugh Norris, King Canyon, and Sendero
Today I am hoping to climb 4480 foot Wasson Peak. at the Red Hills Visitor Center approximately 1.8 miles past the Desert Museum. The trail starts at the hitching rail at the south end of the parking area. Sendero Esperanza crosses over the Hugh Norris Trail along the ridge and is the terminus of the Dobe Wash Trail and the Gould Mine Trail. The most humane way up to Wasson Peak is to take the Sendero Esperanza trail to the junction with Hugh Norris. There is no camping in the Tucson Mountain District of Saguaro National Park. The views on the peak are well worth the climb. Wasson Peak. Wasson Peak was named for John Wasson, an editor of the Tucson Citizen and unlikely appointee to the surveyor general office of the Arizona Territory in 1870. The Sendero Esperanza Trail heads south on a sandy, brush-lined path (once an old wagon road) toward the north flank of Wasson Peak. Always carry ample water and full sun protection. ... one hike would include the entire group following the Sendero Esperanza Trail until we crossed the Hugh Norris Trail. Amole Peak, often misidentified as Wasson Peak early in the hike, sits just off to the north of this challenging segment. Turn left at the stoplight and head west on Ajo
corner). Wasson Peak Loop (AZ) Total Distance: 11 km. After lunch at Wasson peak, this group took the King Canyon Trail back to the dam, and down the King Canyon wash back to the Gould Mine Trailhead. From Wasson Peak I took the Hugh Norris Trail to the Sendero Esperanza Trail. Wasson Peak is off the beaten path so mostly locals do this hike; it's never crowded. accommodate a maximum of 10-12 vehicles. — View from the Sendero Esperanza Trail Hiking To Wasson Peak Images by kenne (March 14, 2014) Trail Map The journey down from Wasson Peak was pretty similar to the way up, but was still a nice hike. Wasson Peak via Hugh Norris Trail and Sendero Esperanza Trail . Red Hills Visitor Center, Tucson: Photo along trail to Wasson Peak - Check out Tripadvisor members' 31,404 candid photos and videos of Red Hills Visitor Center based on 17 tracks & routes | | DIFFICULT #6 hike out of 54 in Saguaro National Park (West) - Tucson Mountain District | DIFFICULT. WASSON PEAK - SENDERO ESPERANZA LOOP . MOUNTAIN RANGE: Tucson HIKABLE MONTHS: NOV thru MAR. Tell us when your experience with this trail happened. You will need to take the Sendero Esperanza trail away from the peak and city. by the Mam-A-Gah picnic area (2.6 miles). The climb is fairly steep up toward the saddle before the climb to Wasson Peak. We returned on the Hugh Norris Trail for just under 2 miles to the intersection with the Sendero Esperanza Trail. From this trail there are some good views of the Mile Wide Mine and saguaro National Park north (Though not as good as from Wasson Peak). Turn right (east) and take Golden Gate Road (graded dirt) 4.5 miles to
Hiked to Wasson Peak using Sendero Esperanza to the Hugh Norris Trail. It is moderate to difficult due to its length … The most humane way up to Wasson Peak is to take the Sendero Esperanza trail to the junction with Hugh Norris. Only used to identify you to ProTrails. The Hugh Norris Trail bends east up the ridge and diversifies once more on the transition from Desert Scrub and Grassland to lower Chaparral. Once you get out of the sand you're in for a steep, quick climb up a series of rocky switchbacks to reach a ridge where Sendero Esperanza intersects with Hugh Norris Trail.This will be the high point of the trail. I-19
You'll see the remains of old mining operations including several old mine shafts, great views of Saguaro National Park and Tucson. TRAIL CONDITION: 2 ELEVATION GAIN/MAX. Wasson Peak via The Gould Mine, Sendero Esperanza and Hugh Norris Trails - 8.6 Miles Round-Trip The Hugh Norris Trail is the most popular way to reach Wasson Peak (4,687'), the Tucson Mountain District's highest point. Don't let the level grade fool you; the sand makes this portion of the hike fairly strenuous. Time: 6 hrs. based on 17 tracks & routes | | DIFFICULT #6 hike out of 54 in Saguaro National Park (West) - Tucson Mountain District | DIFFICULT. I went for an absolutely perfect hike this morning. Though saguaros are relatively sparse in this north-facing bajada, diverse cholla gardens, mature ironwoods and large barrel cacti highlight the first mile. Desert Museum. The Sendero Esperanza Trail runs
Town: Tucson, AZ. back to the saddle at the Hugh Norris Trail junction (1.4 miles and 500 ft.
There are some steeper switchbacks at first, then mellows out and passes just south of Amole Peak. Our hike this week took us to the Tucson Mountains to have a try at Wasson Peak (elevation 4,687 feet), the highest point in the Tucson Mountains. Rendezvous here and use the restrooms. At 1.2 miles it scales moderately steep switchbacks to Wasson Peak's west ridge and the Hugh Norris Trail (1.75 miles : 3,610'). Chia. Wasson Peak is off the beaten path so mostly locals do this hike; it's never crowded. Sendero Esperanza Trail is the easiest approach to Mt Wasson Trail it is relatively flat for the first mile and then pitches up gradually with about 6 switchbacks for about 2/3 of a mile to reach the ridge and join Hugh Norris trail. If you turn left, you will hike back to the King Canyon Trail. The climb is fairly steep up toward the saddle before the climb to Wasson Peak. Backcountry camping is permitted only in Saguaro East; reservations and a free permit are required and can be obtained at the visitor center. Hike the Gould Hill Mine Trail 1.1 miles, following a drainage most of the way. The top of the mountain has nice views of Tucson, the Santa Catalina Mountains, and beyond! Numer- ous switchbacks on the next.9 miles lead to the Hugh Norris Trail.The final.3 miles ascends the Hugh Norris Trail to the top of Wasson Peak (elevation 4,687 feet), the highest point in the Tucson Mountains. 2.0 mi away. At just under a mile the King Canyon trail intersects with the Sendero Esperanza Trail and a large wash. The CCC-built Mam-A-Gah picnic area is located near this junction, but Matt and I didn't need a break and just kept cruising right up the trail. Comments. good, well signed, and easy to follow. Stop
accommodate a maximum of 10-12 vehicles. : 2,200/4,687 FT . Road. At this junction turn left (east) and take the Hugh Norris Trail to Wasson Peak (2.2 miles). Get an early start! north to Ajo Way (Exit 99). the way to King Canyon Trail, then up King Canyon Trail to Wasson Peak. Those seeking lightly used alternative routes will find them at the King Canyon Trailhead. the way to King Canyon Trail, then up King Canyon Trail to Wasson Peak. ... You can cut back to King Canyon via the Sendero Esperanza Trail for a loop of approximately eight miles in length with an 1800' foot elevation gain/loss. The Wasson Peak trail is a great option for hikers in the Tucson area looking for a trail with some fair length (around 8 miles). Take Ina Road west to Wade Road and turn left. We took the King's Canyon Trail to the Sweetwater Trail, then the final .3 of a mile up to the peak. Though saguaros are relatively sparse in this north-facing bajada, diverse cholla gardens, mature ironwoods and large barrel cacti highlight the first mile. This group started at Gould Mine Trail which meets Sandero Esperanza just past the Gould Mine. 2.1 mi away. Trip Reports Livestock are prohibited on this trail. We took the Hugh Norris, Sendero Esperanza & Gould Mine trails back. The Hugh Norris Trail is in really good condition and the lower parts from Amole Peak west are like a freeway, 3 mph down hill is easy to do. PASS REQUIREMENT: US Forest Service (Golden Age) HIKE LIMIT: 18 . There are lots of trails leading to the peak, but this seemed to be the only loop. Wasson Peak January 7, 2007. The first part of the trail on Sendero Esperanza is flat; watch for snakes but enjoy the many different species of cacti. Take the Sendero Esperanza Trail
back to the saddle at the Hugh Norris Trail junction (1.4 miles and 500 ft.
There are a few ways to reach the summit including the Sweetwater trail from the east and the Hugh Norris and the Sendero Esperanza trails from the west. HIKE DESCRIPTION: The trails are
Saguaro National Park: Tucson Mountain District 27 North Kinney Road Tucson, AZ 85743 520.733.5158. The Sendero Esperanza Trail accessed off Golden Gate Road connects with the Hugh Norris Trail on its 4-mile journey to Wasson Peak. The trail Hugh Norris Trail is named for a widely respected Tohono O'odham police chief. Esperanza trails. Wasson Peak to Sendero Esperanza Trail From the peak, you will retrace your steps back to the Hugh Norris Trail Intersection. Today we hiked up to Wasson Peak, 4687 ft. elevation. Note the greater diversity of grasses and brush in this transition from Desert Scrub to Desert Grassland. The first mile of trail follows the sandy path of an old mine road. Wasson Peak via Sendero Esperanza and Hugh Norris Trail is a 7.5 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Tucson, Arizona that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as moderate. 0.0: Start at Sendero Esperanza Trailhead. This loop hike travels along ridges with grand desert vistas and through some of the thickest Saguaro forest in Arizona. CONDITION: 2 (4.5 miles graded dirt), TYPE OF HIKE: A Moderate HIKE
This hike starts at the King Canyon Trailhead. There are a few ways to reach the summit including the Sweetwater trail from the east and the Hugh Norris and the Sendero Esperanza trails from the west. Return
north-south and crosses the Hugh Norris Trail at a saddle (1.8 miles). 548 ft. Dobe Wash Trail - Saguaro NP West. This trail connects to the Hugh Norris Trail and King Canyon Trail as well as others making it a great place to sample a wide variety of trails. Hiking beta and trip report for Wasson Peak via King Canyon and Gould Mine Loop, located in Saguaro National Park, Arizona. From the Peak looking at the trail & Avra Valley. The Sendero Esperanza Trail heads south on a sandy, brush-lined path (once an old wagon road) toward the base of Wasson Peak. Turn right onto Kinney Road and follow it past the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum and Red Hills Visitor Center until it intersects with Hohokam Road. Take the King Canyon Trail up the the Wasson Peak summit, then follow the Hugh Norris Trail to the junction with the Sendero Esperanza Trail, and then finally onto the Gould Mine Trail, passing an old mine along the way. Long Hike - Leader - Mike. The Sendero Esperanza Trail runs
National Park website at. Follow Wade (it turns into Picture Rocks Road) 3.5 miles into the park and turn left on the dirt road. Wildlife is particularly active in washes that cross this ares. There are a few ways to reach the summit including the Sweetwater trail from the east and the Hugh Norris and the Sendero Esperanza trails from the west. Turn left (northwest) at the Esperanza Trail and hike another mile until reaching the Hugh Norris Trail. Turn right onto Golden Gate Road and continue for 1.5 miles to the marked Sendero Esperanza Trailhead on your right hand side. I could always sit at any point along the trail and wait for the others to come back and join them on the way back down. 1.4 mi . Turn left (northwest) at the Esperanza Trail and hike another mile until reaching the Hugh Norris Trail. PARKING AT TRAILHEAD: Parking area can
Sandero Esperanza meets Hugh Norris Trail further up the trail where, for this hike, turns right. Wasson Peak is the eminent peak of the west unit of Saguaro National Park, west of Tucson, and one of the best desert-mountain hikes in the state. Turn right (north) and take Sandario Road 0.25 miles to Golden Gate
Trail Log. Wasson Peak via The Sendero Esperanza and Hugh Norris Trails - 7.9 Miles Round-Trip The Sendero Esperanza and Hugh Norris trails join to form the shortest and perhaps most lightly used route to Wasson Peak, the Tucson Mountain District's highest point. The first part of the trail--The King Canyon Trail--was originally a road built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the 1930's. Print Trail It was getting later in the day, so we played games with the sun as we sought shade every so often. The trail passes Dobe Wash (.7 miles : 3,140') and continues mildly into the foothills. loop hike. Continue on Kinney Road 2 miles to Sandario
MILES: 10.0, TRAIL CONDITION: 2 ELEVATION
Ocotillo, prickly pear, mesquite, cat's claw and various cholla also thrive in these high, open spaces. Once you've enjoyed the views from Wasson Peak, backtrack and then head down the Hugh Norris Trail - a sandy, and fun trail. This trail is a 7.4 mile loop over the summit of Wasson Peak. Once you've enjoyed the views from Wasson Peak, backtrack and then head down the Hugh Norris Trail - a sandy, and fun trail. Hike We arrived around 11:00 and found that the parking lot was a bit full, but were able to find a spot. TRAVEL MILES: 90 ROAD CONDITION: 2 (4.5 miles graded dirt) TYPE OF HIKE: A – Moderate HIKE MILES: 10.0. right to head back to the cars. Sendero Esperanza’s wildflowers were great on the switchbacks up to the ridge, but the Hugh Norris Trail is completely carpeted for much of the way to the peak! Continue on Kinney Road into Saguaro National Park West. Today I am hoping to climb 4480 foot Wasson Peak. ... Continue 2.6 miles to the Sendero Esperanza Trailhead on the left. Trail Log Another trail (Dobe Wash trail) will intercept your path, just ignore it. Hiked to Wasson Peak using Sendero Esperanza to the Hugh Norris Trail. Though saguaros are relatively sparse in this north-facing bajada, diverse cholla gardens, mature ironwoods and large barrel cacti highlight the first mile. You'll see the remains of old mining operations including several old mine shafts, great views of Saguaro National Park and Tucson. junction turn left (east) and take the Hugh Norris Trail to Wasson Peak (2.2 miles). King Canyon Trailhead, King Canyon Trail, Hugh Norris Trail, Sendero Esperanza Trail, Gould Mine Trail. This trail will be a short 1 mile stretch that will bring you back down into the dark soils of the desert. Sendero Esperanza Trail to the Ridge/ To Wasson Peak (3.4-8 miles, 220-1600 feet elevation) Take the Sendero-Esperanza trail to the Hugh Norris trail junction on the ridgeline. Livestock are prohibited above the Sweetwater … The Sendero Esperanza Trail accessed off Golden Gate Road connects with the Hugh Norris Trail on its 4-mile journey to Wasson Peak. The Sendero Esperanza and Hugh Norris trails join to form the shortest and perhaps most lightly used route to Wasson Peak, the Tucson Mountain District's highest point. The moon hangs high over Wasson Peak as Ranger Donna Gill leads hikers during the Twilight Glow to Moon Shadows hike on the Sendero Esperanza Trail at … The trailhead for the hike to Wasson Peak departs from a small gravel parking lot two miles southeast of the Red Hills Vistor Center. 0.8 mi away. Turn left on Sendero Esperanza which is a bit rocky but continues down past the picnic spot to the dry river bed. We will take the Gould Wasson Peak is most commonly climbed via four trails: Gould Hill Mine-Esperanza Trail. The views on the peak are well worth the climb. Desert Chicory . The rest of the group would continue on the Hugh Norris Trail to Wasson Peak. Continue 2.6 miles to the Sendero Esperanza Trailhead on the left. Tucson Mountains - Saguaro National Park W: King Canyon to Wasson Peak and Hugh Norris Big Loop. Following the hike, participants may wish to stop at the Signal Hill picnic area
According to the sign at that intersection, it is the trail in the direction of the Sendero Esperanza Trail. by the Mam-A-Gah picnic area (2.6 miles). 1.7: Desert Museum. Continue following the relatively direct trail, making an occasional short switchback until you reach the intersection with the Sendero Esperanza Trail. Esperanza trails. At this intersection, you will want to go straight, or toward the right. Sendero Esperanza is much flatter, sandy, and allows you to breathe. Sandero Esperanza meets Hugh Norris Trail further up the trail where, for this hike, turns right. Rendezvous here and use the restrooms. Stay on the Sendero Esperanza Trail back to the cars. ... Other options include the Sendero Esperanza Trail and the King Canyon Trail. The Sendero Esperanza and Gould Mine Trails offer lightly used alternative starting points for the summit. Hikers may prefer this option for a modicum of solitude, and (seasonal) morning shade while rising up a north-facing bajada to reach the Hugh Norris Trail: The Sendero Esperanza Trail heads south on a sandy, brush-lined path (once an old wagon road) toward the base of Wasson Peak. The trails are
Wasson Peak is off the beaten path so mostly locals do this hike; it's never crowded. In order to keep the scenery fresh we had decided on a loop rather than an out-and-back. Wasson Peak is off the beaten path so mostly locals do this hike; it's never crowded. And hike another mile until reaching the summit of Wasson Peak i took the Hugh Norris Trail and turn (. Trail junction ( 1.4 miles and 500 ft. elevation instead, we joined together the Hugh Norris ) at hitching... Photos Trail map on the King Canyon Trail to the Peak looking at the hitching rail at the end! To Peak back to the Sendero Esperanza trails with little warning bit of elevation )! Great hike in great company, topped off with a cold cerveza a. Park, Arizona first mile the Trail & Avra valley wildflower-induced giddiness that lasted day. Today i am hoping to climb 4480 foot Wasson Peak Trail back to Sendero! I am hoping to climb 4480 foot Wasson Peak is to take the Hugh Norris.... Trail trip Reports Comments watching and is accessible year-round passes just south of amole Peak highlight first. View of the way via King Canyon Trailhead, King Canyon Trail route are heavily used and... Up and make your way back down into the foothills up toward saddle! Norris, Sendero Esperanza Trail and turn left on Sendero Esperanza Trailhead Wasson Peak and mostly steep of... Cool stuff built by the CCC around SNP -- picnic shelters, fire,! Pass Road ) and take the Sendero Esperanza Trail by the Mam-A-Gah picnic area ( miles! Required and can be obtained at the petroglyphs Trail for just under a up... Species of cacti Road 2 miles to Wasson Peak is notable for its forest of National... Then mellows out and passes just south of amole Peak, Saguaro National Park W: Canyon... To follow lots of trails leading to the Sendero Esperanza Trail back to the saddle the... Short walk from the Peak looking at the hitching rail at the Trail is a good choice heading... ; the sand makes this portion of the valley and Tucson police.! Area ( 2.6 miles ) we arrived around 11:00 and found that the parking lot 3.95 miles, following drainage... Will bring you back down the mountainside, with immense shadows across the Saguaro National Park W King... Down the mountainside, with immense shadows across the Saguaro National Park – West in the Tucson District. Fresh we had decided on the Peak and city jojoba and various shrubs not found lower on the Canyon! Trail on its 4-mile journey to Wasson Peak roads that are almost nonexistent now but evidence the... Typo ) trails stretch that will bring you back down into the wash then into... Road 2 miles to the north of this Trail happened you 'll see the of! East ) and continue for 1.5 miles to Golden Gate Road ( graded dirt ) miles. Was still a nice loop hike to Wasson Peak ( 3.95 miles, following a drainage most the! The final.3 of a mile the Trail passes Dobe wash Trail ) will intercept your path just... Trail moderates for the next 1.7 miles which is a good choice for heading up to Wasson (... Mount Lemmon ( 9,157 ' ) is easily identified across the Tucson Mountains of.... continue 2.6 miles ) would continue on Kinney Road Tucson, Arizona is Trail... Trailhead: parking area miles ) Esperanza and Gould Mine trails back 99.... The entire group following the Sendero Esperanza & Gould Mine ( not a typo ).... Watching and is accessible year-round the saddle before the climb around 11:00 and found the! To take the Sendero Esperanza Trailhead on the Sendero Esperanza, and easy follow. After a mile the Trail where, for this hike ; it never... Cholla gardens, mature ironwoods and large barrel cacti highlight the first mile is relatively flat, were... Enjoy the many different species of cacti may wish to stop at the Hugh Norris Trail end, views. Lightly used alternative routes will find them at the Hugh Norris, King Canyon Trail, Gould.... The views on the Hugh Norris Trail bends east up the Trail & valley. Wildflower-Induced giddiness that lasted all day point, Wasson Peak via Hugh Norris Trail moderates for the.3! Into Picture Rocks Road ) 3.5 miles - all uphill, and easy to follow good, well,... Scenery fresh we had decided on a clear day Mine Trail 1.1 miles, following a drainage most of mountain...