The Sendero Esperanza Trail heads south on a sandy, brush-lined path (once an old wagon road) toward the base of Wasson Peak. at the Red Hills Visitor Center approximately 1.8 miles past the Desert Museum. Once you've enjoyed the views from Wasson Peak, backtrack and then head down the Hugh Norris Trail - a sandy, and fun trail. Hiked to Wasson Peak using Sendero Esperanza to the Hugh Norris Trail. The climb is fairly steep up toward the saddle before the climb to Wasson Peak. junction turn left (east) and take the Hugh Norris Trail to Wasson Peak (2.2 miles). Don't let the level grade fool you; the sand makes this portion of the hike fairly strenuous. 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. elevation gain). Rendezvous here and use the restrooms. Following the hike, participants may wish to stop at the Signal Hill picnic area Take the 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. 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. It is moderate to difficult due to its length … 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! I decided on the longer hike…I felt I could at least try. 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! Wasson Peak January 7, 2007. Great panoramic scenes of the valley come into view. loop hike. In the distance, we could see the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. 0.8 mi away. accommodate a maximum of 10-12 vehicles. Instead, we joined together the Hugh Norris, Sendero Esperanza, and Gould Mine (not a typo) trails. elevation gain). Getting to the Trailhead Hike along the steep Hugh Norris trail and left up Sendero Esperanza for the next 1.7 miles. Trip Reports After a mile the trail joins the Hugh Norris Trail. I had a wonderful hike and experienced wildflower-induced giddiness that lasted all day! Wasson Peak to Sendero Esperanza Trail From the peak, you will retrace your steps back to the Hugh Norris Trail Intersection. In order to keep the scenery fresh we had decided on a loop rather than an out-and-back. 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 views on the peak are well worth the climb. Portions of this route are heavily used, and afternoon thunderstorms can develop with little warning. Total mileage round trip is 7.8 with about 1520 feet of elevation gain. The peak is notable for its forest of saguaro cactus, which cover the mountain from base to peak. Continue on Kinney Road into Saguaro National Park West. 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. The trail passes Dobe Wash (.7 miles : 3,140') and continues mildly into the foothills. Sandero Esperanza meets Hugh Norris Trail further up the trail where, for this hike, turns right. COMMENTS: A nice on the Hugh Norris Trail to the junction with the Sendero Esperanza Trail and turn Hiking beta and trip report for Wasson Peak via King Canyon and Gould Mine Loop, located in Saguaro National Park, Arizona. This trail will be a short 1 mile stretch that will bring you back down into the dark soils of the desert. Turn right (north) onto Kinney Road and drive north past the Arizona-Sonora This trail is a 7.4 mile loop over the summit of Wasson Peak. Those seeking lightly used alternative routes will find them at the King Canyon Trailhead. The most humane way up to Wasson Peak is to take the Sendero Esperanza trail to the junction with Hugh Norris. Road. Wasson Peak is the tallest mountain in the Tucson Mountain District of Saguaro National Park. MONTHS: NOV thru MAR, TRAVEL MILES: 90                                               ROAD We took the King's Canyon Trail to the Sweetwater Trail, then the final .3 of a mile up to the peak. Town: Tucson, AZ. This photo was taken on our way back down the mountainside, with immense shadows across the saguaro landscape. From the Peak looking at the trail & Avra Valley. The trailhead for the hike to Wasson Peak departs from a small gravel parking lot two miles southeast of the Red Hills Vistor Center. 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'). Continue 2.6 miles to the Sendero Esperanza Trailhead on the left. 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. This hike starts at the King Canyon Trailhead. I went for an absolutely perfect hike this morning. HIKE DESCRIPTION: The trails are The total for this group would be 8 miles and 1,700 feet elevation gain. Wasson Peak is most commonly climbed via four trails: Gould Hill Mine-Esperanza Trail. 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. Turn left on Sendero Esperanza which is a bit rocky but continues down past the picnic spot to the dry river bed. The trail starts at the hitching rail at the south end of the parking area. Return on the King Canyon Trail to the junction with the Sendero Esperanza … Fauna: Nearby : Flora: Nearby : Meteorology: Nearby : Named place: Nearby : Culture: Nearby : breath taking views by desertgirl. We took the Hugh Norris, Sendero Esperanza & Gould Mine trails back. Backcountry camping is permitted only in Saguaro East; reservations and a free permit are required and can be obtained at the visitor center. Ocotillo, prickly pear, mesquite, cat's claw and various cholla also thrive in these high, open spaces. Continue on Kinney Road 2 miles to Sandario north-south and crosses the Hugh Norris Trail at a saddle (1.8 miles). the way to King Canyon Trail, then up King Canyon Trail to Wasson Peak. Desert Museum. corner). ... Continue 2.6 miles to the Sendero Esperanza Trailhead on the left. good, well signed, and easy to follow. Sendero Esperanza trail to Wasson Peak. Though saguaros are relatively sparse in this north-facing bajada, diverse cholla gardens, mature ironwoods and large barrel cacti highlight the first mile. Turn right onto Golden Gate Road and continue for 1.5 miles to the marked Sendero Esperanza Trailhead on your right hand side. According to the sign at that intersection, it is the trail in the direction of the Sendero Esperanza Trail. 1.4 mi . Amole Peak, often misidentified as Wasson Peak early in the hike, sits just off to the north of this challenging segment. Turn Right (east) and hike for 2.2 miles until reaching the summit. 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. Always carry ample water and full sun protection. Wasson Peak via Hugh Norris Trail and Sendero Esperanza Trail . There is just a bit of elevation gain, and some beautiful views of the Sonoran Desert. Return on the King Canyon Trail to the junction with the Sendero Esperanza Trail 4.8 mi -160 ft [ View More!] I mean, nothing ventured – nothing gained right? 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. Continue down the river bed, also known as the King Canyon Wash. Wildlife is particularly active in washes that cross this ares. A Return At this junction turn left (east) and take the Hugh Norris Trail to Wasson Peak (2.2 miles). The first mile is relatively flat, but quickly ascends up switch backs (220 feet elevation) towards the ridge. I had a wonderful hike and experienced wildflower-induced giddiness that lasted all day! 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 … Note the greater diversity of grasses and brush in this transition from Desert Scrub to Desert Grassland. Take Ina Road west to Wade Road and turn left. Sendero Esperanza Trail - Saguaro NP West. Tucson Mountains - Saguaro National Park W: King Canyon to Wasson Peak and Hugh Norris Big Loop. 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. From Golden Gate Road this is a good choice for heading up to Wasson Peak. Wasson Peak via Hugh Norris Trail and Sendero Esperanza Trail . Return We took the King's Canyon Trail to the Sweetwater Trail, then the final .3 of a mile up to the peak. Hike We arrived around 11:00 and found that the parking lot was a bit full, but were able to find a spot. Turn right (east) and take Golden Gate Road (graded dirt) 4.5 miles to MILES: 10.0, TRAIL CONDITION: 2                                           ELEVATION 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 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. 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. Wasson Peak is off the beaten path so mostly locals do this hike; it's never crowded. the way to King Canyon Trail, then up King Canyon Trail to Wasson Peak. Wasson Peak is off the beaten path so mostly locals do this hike; it's never crowded. ... Other options include the Sendero Esperanza Trail and the King Canyon Trail. A great hike in great company, topped off with a cold cerveza and a burger at Tiny's Saloon on Ajo Road. You will need to take the Sendero Esperanza trail away from the peak and city. right to head back to the cars. The view of the valley and Tucson is spectacular from the peak. 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 rest of the group would continue on the Hugh Norris Trail to Wasson Peak. National Park website at. 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 Hugh Norris Trail bends east up the ridge and diversifies once more on the transition from Desert Scrub and Grassland to lower Chaparral. 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). Today we hiked up to Wasson Peak, 4687 ft. elevation. the Sendero Esperanza trailhead. scenic loop hike to Wasson Peak via Hugh Norris, King Canyon, and Sendero climb that leads to the top of Wasson Peak. You can download a trail map on the Saguaro Parking area can Trail Log BULLETIN DESCRIPTION: A ... 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. You'll see the remains of old mining operations including several old mine shafts, great views of Saguaro National Park and Tucson. Wasson Peak is off the beaten path so mostly locals do this hike; it's never crowded. Wasson Peak via Hugh Norris Trail and Sendero Esperanza Trail. by the Mam-A-Gah picnic area (2.6 miles). Comments. ... one hike would include the entire group following the Sendero Esperanza Trail until we crossed the Hugh Norris Trail. 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. Wildlife is particularly active in washes that cross this ares. 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. Another trail (Dobe Wash trail) will intercept your path, just ignore it. Wasson Peak Loop (AZ) Total Distance: 11 km. loop hike. Hike the Gould Hill Mine Trail 1.1 miles, following a drainage most of the way. There is no camping in the Tucson Mountain District of Saguaro National Park. TRAVEL MILES: 90 ROAD CONDITION: 2 (4.5 miles graded dirt) TYPE OF HIKE: A – Moderate HIKE MILES: 10.0. Though saguaros are relatively sparse in this north-facing bajada, diverse cholla gardens, mature ironwoods and large barrel cacti highlight the first mile. The most humane way up to Wasson Peak is to take the Sendero Esperanza trail to the junction with Hugh Norris. Way about 5 miles to Kinney Road (stoplight with McDonalds on the northeast Turn left (northwest) at the Esperanza Trail and hike another mile until reaching the Hugh Norris Trail. Posts about Wasson Peak written by yourcameraisnotbigenough. Wasson Peak is off the beaten path so mostly locals do this hike; it's never crowded. The journey down from Wasson Peak was pretty similar to the way up, but was still a nice hike. 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. Stay on the Sendero Esperanza Trail back to the cars. Trail Photos At this intersection, you will want to go straight, or toward the right. Though saguaros are relatively sparse in this north-facing bajada, diverse cholla gardens, mature ironwoods and large barrel cacti highlight the first mile. Turn left at the stoplight and head west on Ajo (Golden Age) HIKE LIMIT: 18, MOUNTAIN RANGE: Tucson                                HIKABLE The Sendero Esperanza Trail runs north-south and crosses the Hugh Norris Trail at a saddle (1.8 miles). Stop King Canyon Trailhead, King Canyon Trail, Hugh Norris Trail, Sendero Esperanza Trail, Gould Mine Trail. ROUTE TO TRAILHEAD: Take I-19 north to Ajo … If you turn left, you will hike back to the King Canyon Trail. Follow Wade (it turns into Picture Rocks Road) 3.5 miles into the park and turn left on the dirt road. We took the Hugh Norris, Sendero Esperanza & Gould Mine trails back. Wasson Peak via The Sendero Esperanza and Hugh Norris Trails, Trail Map, Saguaro West - Tucson Mountain District: Sendero Esperanza Trailhead, Saguaro National Park, Arizona This group started at Gould Mine Trail which meets Sandero Esperanza just past the Gould Mine. Livestock are prohibited above the Sweetwater … corner). north to Ajo Way (Exit 99). 3.2 mi . Get an early start! A nice loop hike to a popular high point, Wasson Peak. 2.0 mi away. 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. The climb is fairly steep up toward the saddle before the climb to Wasson Peak. 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. Livestock are prohibited on this trail. Stop 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'). by the Mam-A-Gah picnic area (2.6 miles). Turn right (east) and take Golden Gate Road (graded dirt) 4.5 miles to Panther Peak and Sombrero Peak, Saguaro National Park – West in the Tucson Mountains northeast of Tucson, Arizona. The Sendero Esperanza Trail accessed off Golden Gate Road connects with the Hugh Norris Trail on its 4-mile journey to Wasson Peak. At this Turn right (north) and take Sandario Road 0.25 miles to Golden Gate Wasson Peak is off the beaten path so mostly locals do this hike; it's never crowded. The The Sendero Esperanza Trail accessed off Golden Gate Road connects with the Hugh Norris Trail on its 4-mile journey to Wasson Peak. Esperanza trails. Saguaro National Park: Tucson Mountain District 27 North Kinney Road Tucson, AZ 85743 520.733.5158. The Hugh Norris Trail and Wasson Peak summit are fully exposed to sun and heat. From the Peak looking at the trail & Avra Valley. The most humane way up to Wasson Peak is to take the Sendero Esperanza trail to the junction with Hugh Norris. At just under a mile the King Canyon trail intersects with the Sendero Esperanza Trail and a large wash. 1.7: It can be run in reverse by taking the Sendero Esperanza Trail all You will also notice signs of old mines in this area, before you reach the final stretch of the loop. That was a total of 3.5 miles - all uphill, and mostly steep. Much of this trail is along old mining roads that are almost nonexistent now but evidence of the roads can still be seen. From Tucson, take Speedway Blvd west (it will become West Gates Pass Road) and continue west to Kinney Road. It was getting later in the day, so we played games with the sun as we sought shade every so often. Continue following the relatively direct trail, making an occasional short switchback until you reach the intersection with the Sendero Esperanza Trail. Turn left on Sendero Esperanza which is a bit rocky but continues down past the picnic spot to the dry river bed. : 2,200/4,687 FT. ROUTE TO TRAILHEAD: Take I-19 the Sendero Esperanza trailhead. scenic loop hike to Wasson Peak via Hugh Norris, King Canyon, and Sendero 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 You'll follow the King Canyon Trail along the wash then down into the wash near the picnic area. Trail Map 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. A nice 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. north to Ajo Way (Exit 99). : 2,200/4,687 FT . 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. Long Hike - Leader - Mike. This loop hike travels along ridges with grand desert vistas and through some of the thickest Saguaro forest in Arizona. at the Red Hills Visitor Center approximately 1.8 miles past the Desert Museum. Road. Turn left at the stoplight and head west on Ajo Turn left on Sendero Esperanza which is a bit rocky but continues down past the picnic spot to the dry river bed. junction turn left (east) and take the Hugh Norris Trail to Wasson Peak (2.2 miles). The Sendero Esperanza Trail runs 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. back to the saddle at the Hugh Norris Trail junction (1.4 miles and 500 ft. Mount Lemmon (9,157') is easily identified across the Tucson Valley on a clear day. PASS REQUIREMENT: US Forest Service (Golden Age) HIKE LIMIT: 18 . Time: 6 hrs. The trails are 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. based on 17 tracks & routes | | DIFFICULT #6 hike out of 54 in Saguaro National Park (West) - Tucson Mountain District | DIFFICULT. 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. 4 ft. Well Road Trail. Saguaro National Park Tucson Mountain District Tucson, Arizona. 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. Although there's nowhere to sit at the end, the views are cool—soak it up and make your way back. Desert Chicory . We will take the Gould The first mile is relatively flat, but quickly ascends up switch backs (220 feet elevation) towards the ridge. Turn right onto Hohokam Road (also known as the Bajada Loop) and continue to the Golden Gate Road intersection. Road. Return on the King Canyon Trail to the junction with the Sendero Esperanza Trail Once you've enjoyed the views from Wasson Peak, backtrack and then head down the Hugh Norris Trail - a sandy, and fun 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). Wash Trail - Saguaro National Park, Arizona last.3 miles to the Peak at. Was actually quite a bit rocky but continues down past the picnic spot to Hugh!: 11 km Log hike along the steep Hugh Norris Trail all day go straight, toward. Mostly locals do this hike ; it 's never crowded hike a little earlier end, the views on Hugh. 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