Hiked to Wasson Peak using Sendero Esperanza to the Hugh Norris Trail. Portions of this route are heavily used, and afternoon thunderstorms can develop with little warning. Wasson Peak via The Sendero Esperanza and Hugh Norris Trails, Trail Map, Saguaro West - Tucson Mountain District: Sendero Esperanza Trailhead, Saguaro National Park, Arizona COMMENTS: A nice and look at the petroglyphs. At this intersection, you will want to go straight, or toward the right. Today I am hoping to climb 4480 foot Wasson Peak. Road. Sendero Esperanza trail to Wasson Peak. Today we hiked up to Wasson Peak, 4687 ft. elevation. elevation gain). Trail Map King Canyon Trailhead, King Canyon Trail, Hugh Norris Trail, Sendero Esperanza Trail, Gould Mine Trail. Rendezvous here and use the restrooms. 0.8 mi away. Those seeking lightly used alternative routes will find them at the King Canyon Trailhead. 548 ft. Dobe Wash Trail - Saguaro NP West. You will also notice signs of old mines in this area, before you reach the final stretch of the loop. Turn right (north) onto Kinney Road and drive north past the Arizona-Sonora 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. The Sendero Esperanza Trail runs National Park website at. The Sendero Esperanza Trail runs 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. Although there's nowhere to sit at the end, the views are cool—soak it up and make your way back. Total mileage round trip is 7.8 with about 1520 feet of elevation gain. The trail passes Dobe Wash (.7 miles : 3,140') and continues mildly into the foothills. 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. Sendero Esperanza Trail - Saguaro NP West. Sandero Esperanza meets Hugh Norris Trail further up the trail where, for this hike, turns right. I had a wonderful hike and experienced wildflower-induced giddiness that lasted all day! right to head back to the cars. We took the Hugh Norris, Sendero Esperanza & Gould Mine trails back. The by the Mam-A-Gah picnic area (2.6 miles). TRAIL CONDITION: 2 ELEVATION GAIN/MAX. I-19 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 The peak is notable for its forest of saguaro cactus, which cover the mountain from base to peak. 2.1 mi away. There is no camping in the Tucson Mountain District of Saguaro National Park. Wasson Peak via Hugh Norris Trail and Sendero Esperanza Trail . 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. It can be run in reverse by taking the Sendero Esperanza Trail all This trail is a 7.4 mile loop over the summit of Wasson Peak. Much of the trail is overgrown with creosote bushes and large prickly pear cacti, but it should be easy to follow the correct path. : 2,200/4,687 FT. ROUTE TO TRAILHEAD: Take I-19 on the Hugh Norris Trail to the junction with the Sendero Esperanza Trail and turn The Sendero Esperanza Trail heads south on a sandy, brush-lined path (once an old wagon road) toward the north flank of Wasson Peak. It can be run in reverse by taking the Sendero Esperanza Trail all 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 is most commonly climbed via four trails: Gould Hill Mine-Esperanza Trail. Turn right (east) and take Golden Gate Road (graded dirt) 4.5 miles to You'll see the remains of old mining operations including several old mine shafts, great views of Saguaro National Park and Tucson. The first part of the trail on Sendero Esperanza is flat; watch for snakes but enjoy the many different species of cacti. Wasson Peak is off the beaten path so mostly locals do this hike; it's never crowded. 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. Instead, we joined together the Hugh Norris, Sendero Esperanza, and Gould Mine (not a typo) trails. The trail starts at the hitching rail at the south end of the parking area. The most humane way up to Wasson Peak is to take the Sendero Esperanza trail to the junction with Hugh Norris. You will need to take the Sendero Esperanza trail away from the peak and city. Sandero Esperanza meets Hugh Norris Trail further up the trail where, for this hike, turns right. Total mileage round trip is 7.8 with about 1520 feet of elevation gain. Posts about Wasson Peak written by yourcameraisnotbigenough. A great hike in great company, topped off with a cold cerveza and a burger at Tiny's Saloon on Ajo Road. A nice loop hike to a popular high point, Wasson Peak. Return on the King Canyon Trail to the junction with the Sendero Esperanza Trail Though saguaros are relatively sparse in this north-facing bajada, diverse cholla gardens, mature ironwoods and large barrel cacti highlight the first mile. Wasson Peak is off the beaten path so mostly locals do this hike; it's never crowded. ... 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. Getting to the Trailhead Road. In order to keep the scenery fresh we had decided on a loop rather than an out-and-back. BULLETIN DESCRIPTION: A Once you've enjoyed the views from Wasson Peak, backtrack and then head down the Hugh Norris Trail - a sandy, and fun trail. Livestock are prohibited above the Sweetwater … Wasson Peak Loop (AZ) Total Distance: 11 km. Stay on the Sendero Esperanza Trail back to the cars. PASS REQUIREMENT: US Forest Service 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. You can download a trail map on the Saguaro Always carry ample water and full sun protection. The Sendero Esperanza Trail accessed off Golden Gate Road connects with the Hugh Norris Trail on its 4-mile journey to Wasson Peak. Saguaro National Park: Tucson Mountain District 27 North Kinney Road Tucson, AZ 85743 520.733.5158. I decided on the longer hike…I felt I could at least try. CONDITION: 2 (4.5 miles graded dirt), TYPE OF HIKE: A – Moderate                               HIKE Turn left on Sendero Esperanza which is a bit rocky but continues down past the picnic spot to the dry river bed. Hiking beta and trip report for Wasson Peak via King Canyon and Gould Mine Loop, located in Saguaro National Park, Arizona. Wasson Peak via Hugh Norris Trail and Sendero Esperanza Trail. The rest of the group would continue on the Hugh Norris Trail to Wasson Peak. MONTHS: NOV thru MAR, TRAVEL MILES: 90                                               ROAD The Hugh Norris Trail and Wasson Peak summit are fully exposed to sun and heat. Note the greater diversity of grasses and brush in this transition from Desert Scrub to Desert Grassland. Continue down the river bed, also known as the King Canyon Wash. good, well signed, and easy to follow. north-south and crosses the Hugh Norris Trail at a saddle (1.8 miles). That was a total of 3.5 miles - all uphill, and mostly steep. Great panoramic scenes of the valley come into view. 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. Following the hike, participants may wish to stop at the Signal Hill picnic area PARKING AT TRAILHEAD: Parking area can Return 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). Comments. According to the sign at that intersection, it is the trail in the direction of the Sendero Esperanza Trail. From Tucson, take Speedway Blvd west (it will become West Gates Pass Road) and continue west to Kinney Road. 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. The most humane way up to Wasson Peak is to take the Sendero Esperanza trail to the junction with Hugh Norris. Chia. It is moderate to difficult due to its length … The King Canyon Trailhead was well marked a short walk from the parking lot. 0.0: Start at Sendero Esperanza Trailhead. ... Continue 2.6 miles to the Sendero Esperanza Trailhead on the left. Take Ina Road west to Wade Road and turn left. Turn left on Sendero Esperanza which is a bit rocky but continues down past the picnic spot to the dry river bed. Livestock are prohibited on this trail. Turn left (northwest) at the Esperanza Trail and hike another mile until reaching the Hugh Norris Trail. The climb is fairly steep up toward the saddle before the climb to Wasson Peak. north to Ajo Way (Exit 99). Backcountry camping is permitted only in Saguaro East; reservations and a free permit are required and can be obtained at the visitor center. junction turn left (east) and take the Hugh Norris Trail to Wasson Peak (2.2 miles). 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). Way about 5 miles to Kinney Road (stoplight with McDonalds on the northeast based on 17 tracks & routes | | DIFFICULT #6 hike out of 54 in Saguaro National Park (West) - Tucson Mountain District | DIFFICULT. Continue on Kinney Road 2 miles to Sandario Tucson Mountains - Saguaro National Park W: King Canyon to Wasson Peak and Hugh Norris Big Loop. Will not show on comments list. National Park website at https://www.nps.gov/sagu/index.htm. The view of the valley and Tucson is spectacular from the peak. The Sendero Esperanza Trail accessed off Golden Gate Road connects with the Hugh Norris Trail on its 4-mile journey to Wasson Peak. This photo was taken on our way back down the mountainside, with immense shadows across the saguaro landscape. Way about 5 miles to Kinney Road (stoplight with McDonalds on the northeast 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. 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. I mean, nothing ventured – nothing gained right? The Sendero Esperanza Trail heads south on a sandy, brush-lined path (once an old wagon road) toward the base of Wasson Peak. We will take the Gould 2.0 mi away. If you turn left, you will hike back to the King Canyon Trail. Return on the King Canyon Trail to the junction with the Sendero Esperanza Trail There was actually quite a bit of cool stuff built by the CCC around SNP--picnic shelters, fire pits, etc. Trail Log At this Turn left at the stoplight and head west on Ajo The most humane way up to Wasson Peak is to take the Sendero Esperanza trail to the junction with Hugh Norris. There are lots of trails leading to the peak, but this seemed to be the only loop. We returned on the Hugh Norris Trail for just under 2 miles to the intersection with the Sendero Esperanza Trail. The trail is primarily used for hiking, nature trips, and bird watching and is accessible year-round. corner). Saguaro National Park Tucson Mountain District Tucson, Arizona. You'll see the remains of old mining operations including several old mine shafts, great views of Saguaro National Park and Tucson. The Sendero Esperanza and Gould Mine Trails offer lightly used alternative starting points for the summit. This hike starts at the King Canyon Trailhead. climb that leads to the top of Wasson Peak. The first mile is relatively flat, but quickly ascends up switch backs (220 feet elevation) towards the ridge. 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. Continue on Kinney Road 2 miles to Sandario Hike the Gould Hill Mine Trail 1.1 miles, following a drainage most of the way. Return on the King Canyon Trail to the junction with the Sendero Esperanza … In the distance, we could see the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. The trailhead for the hike to Wasson Peak departs from a small gravel parking lot two miles southeast of the Red Hills Vistor Center. the way to King Canyon Trail, then up King Canyon Trail to Wasson Peak. 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'). 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. Print Trail Wasson Peak is off the beaten path so mostly locals do this hike; it's never crowded. I would recommend starting this hike a little earlier. At 3.25 miles (4,300') the trail scales another set of rocky switchbacks to the King Canyon Trail - Sweetwater Trail junction (3.65 miles : 4,566'). Hike along the steep Hugh Norris trail and left up Sendero Esperanza for the next 1.7 miles. scenic loop hike to Wasson Peak via Hugh Norris, King Canyon, and Sendero Turn Right (east) and hike for 2.2 miles until reaching the summit. From the Peak looking at the trail & Avra Valley. Trail Log. The Sendero Esperanza Trailhead is located approximately 6 miles from the Red Hills Visitor Center, 1.5 miles east of the intersection of Hohokam Road and Golden Gate Road. Wasson Peak is off the beaten path so mostly locals do this hike; it's never crowded. Esperanza trails. 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. Stop 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. MOUNTAIN RANGE: Tucson HIKABLE MONTHS: NOV thru MAR. Here saguaro forests yield to grassy hillsides, yucca, jojoba and various shrubs not found lower on the trail. loop hike. Great panoramic scenes of the valley come into view. ... Other options include the Sendero Esperanza Trail and the King Canyon Trail. north to Ajo Way (Exit 99). Much of this trail is along old mining roads that are almost nonexistent now but evidence of the roads can still be seen. From Wasson Peak I took the Hugh Norris Trail to the Sendero Esperanza Trail. Trail Photos Take the Sendero Esperanza Trail Sendero Esperanza is much flatter, sandy, and allows you to breathe. (Golden Age) HIKE LIMIT: 18, MOUNTAIN RANGE: Tucson                                HIKABLE Turn left on Sendero Esperanza which is a bit rocky but continues down past the picnic spot to the dry river bed. Once you've enjoyed the views from Wasson Peak, backtrack and then head down the Hugh Norris Trail - a sandy, and fun trail. HIKE DESCRIPTION: The trails are 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. I had a wonderful hike and experienced wildflower-induced giddiness that lasted all day! Rendezvous here and use the restrooms. accommodate a maximum of 10-12 vehicles. Turn right (north) and take Sandario Road 0.25 miles to Golden Gate The most humane way up to Wasson Peak is to take the Sendero Esperanza trail to the junction with Hugh Norris. 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. Wasson Peak to Sendero Esperanza Trail From the peak, you will retrace your steps back to the Hugh Norris Trail Intersection. Though saguaros are relatively sparse in this north-facing bajada, diverse cholla gardens, mature ironwoods and large barrel cacti highlight the first mile. at the Red Hills Visitor Center approximately 1.8 miles past the Desert Museum. After a mile the trail joins the Hugh Norris Trail. Town: Tucson, AZ. right to head back to the cars. Continue 2.6 miles to the Sendero Esperanza Trailhead on the left. 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. elevation gain). The views on the peak are well worth the climb. PASS REQUIREMENT: US Forest Service (Golden Age) HIKE LIMIT: 18 . Road. The first mile of trail follows the sandy path of an old mine road. It was getting later in the day, so we played games with the sun as we sought shade every so often. 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. 4 ft. Well Road Trail. 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. Wasson Peak via Hugh Norris Trail and Sendero Esperanza Trail. Don't let the level grade fool you; the sand makes this portion of the hike fairly strenuous. Stay on the Sendero Esperanza Trail back to the cars. The trail starts at the hitching rail at the south end of the parking area. 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. The trails are At this 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 … Another trail (Dobe Wash trail) will intercept your path, just ignore it. Trip Reports The Hugh Norris Trail moderates for the last .3 miles to Wasson Peak (3.95 miles, 4,687'). 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 Turn right (east) and take Golden Gate Road (graded dirt) 4.5 miles to 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. From the Peak looking at the trail & Avra Valley. the way to King Canyon Trail, then up King Canyon Trail to Wasson Peak. 3.2 mi . Wildlife is particularly active in washes that cross this ares. 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. Hiked to Wasson Peak using Sendero Esperanza to the Hugh Norris Trail. GAIN/MAX. From Golden Gate Road this is a good choice for heading up to Wasson Peak. Continue on Kinney Road into Saguaro National Park West. 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. The views on the peak are well worth the climb. 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. — View from the Sendero Esperanza Trail Hiking To Wasson Peak Images by kenne (March 14, 2014) Desert Museum. Wildlife is particularly active in washes that cross this ares. You can download a trail map on the Saguaro The first mile is relatively flat, but quickly ascends up switch backs (220 feet elevation) towards the ridge. junction turn left (east) and take the Hugh Norris Trail to Wasson Peak (2.2 miles). 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 January 7, 2007. Desert Museum. 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. north-south and crosses the Hugh Norris Trail at a saddle (1.8 miles). Turn right (north) onto Kinney Road and drive north past the Arizona-Sonora Esperanza trails. The total for this group would be 8 miles and 1,700 feet elevation gain. on the Hugh Norris Trail to the junction with the Sendero Esperanza Trail and turn 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. : 2,200/4,687 FT . There are some steeper switchbacks at first, then mellows out and passes just south of Amole Peak. Wasson Peak is most commonly climbed via four trails: Gould Hill Mine-Esperanza Trail. 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. Continue on Kinney Road into Saguaro National Park West. Take the Sendero Esperanza Trail 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... 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