Bajada Wash, AZ

Bajada - definition and pronunciation


Overview
As the name suggests, Bajada Wash is a short hike through a desert wash in Saguaro National Park East. The hike begins at Shantz Trail and runs to Garwood Trail, passing Creosote and Wildhorse Trails along the way.Hike
From Shantz Trail, turn at the trail marker and follow the wash as it heads southeast. This section of the hike is more akin to following a well-worn path than actually walking in a wash. The trail here is a deep grove in the sand that passes through a relatively wide plain punctuated by trees.

At 0.2 miles, you will encounter a marked junction with the Creosote Trail. You will continue straight ahead along the same path you were following, and the wash will gradually begin to widen.

At 0.4 miles, you will reach another signed junction with the Wildhorse Trail. Up to this point, you have been following the northern section of the Bajada Wash. You will now have to turn right and follow Wildhorse Trail for 0.1 miles until you reach a signed junction on the left that marks the continuation of Bajada Wash South.

Past Wildhorse Trail, Bajada Wash will begin to follow a much curvier path through the desert landscape. As you work your way through this section, the trail will gradually transition from sand to rocks as it climbs its way up to Garwood Trail junction.

Warning
During monsoon season, flash floods can pose serious hazards, and it is advisable to stay out of washes.

2012-07-14 keepmoving