Wasson Peak via Sendero Esperanza Trailhead, AZ

Wasson Peak is accessible from numerous trailheads, both from within Saguaro National Park West and also from just off of the park land on Pima County land. The Sendero Esperanza Trailhead is deep within Saguaro National Park West and may be the most remote of the park's trailheads. Hiking Wasson Peak from this trailhead is slightly longer than from Kings Canyon, but substantially shorter than using the Sweetwater Trail.


After reaching the trailhead, which is one of the more difficult to reach in the park, the hike is simple enough. You'll hike the Sendero Esperanza Trail from the parking lot south to the ridge. It's an easy well maintained desert trail to the junction with the Hugh Norris Trail, which you'll take the rest of the way to the summit of Wasson Peak. Initially, the trail is fairly level, but as you near the ridge, you will ascend switchbacks. The description for the Sendero Esperanza Trail is written from the south and the Kings Canyon Trail, but trailhead access for the trail is off of the Golden Gate Rd.The Hugh Norris Trail is one of the best trails I have ever walked on, anywhere. I once hiked downhill from Amole Peak to the junction with the Sendero Esperanza Trail barefoot. Views on the ridgeline are plentiful, and it is a pretty enjoyable hike to Wasson. Once on Wasson, enjoy the view and return the way you came.

2022-09-10 Jim