The longest trail in Saguaro National Park (west) starts from the Hohokam Trailhead 2.5 miles north of the Red Hills Visitor Center. If driving from Tucson I recommend taking Gates Pass Rd. through Tucson Mountain Park, over the pass of the Tucson Mountain Range, then following Kinney Rd. to the visitor center and trailhead.
This hike leads to Wasson Peak (4,687ft) the highest point in Saguaro NP (west). It is 4.9 miles each way and includes steep switchbacks and long sections along ridge lines completely exposed to the sun.
The hike begins with a series of switchbacks up to the ridge line which you will then follow for the remainder of the hike. The trail is well-marked, maintained, and easy to follow throughout. I recommend going on this hike during the winter as during summer months the exposure to the sun would make it more difficult and less enjoyable. While ascending, you are afforded beautiful views of balanced rocks, Saguaro cacti, and swooping birds of prey.
As I turned a corner after a switchback I surprised a number of Javelinas (skunk pigs). They were startled and quickly made off away from me. It goes to show that even though the desert can appear quiet and empty you never know what might be around the corner!
Wasson Peak provided lovely panoramic views of the Sonoran Desert, the city of Tucson, and the Santa Catalina and Rincon Mountains to the east. This halfway point is a great spot for pictures and a relaxing lunch before heading back down the trail.
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