Near Hugh Norris Trail
First descent on the Hugh Norris
Near Hugh Norris Trail
Flowers and great views south
Near Hugh Norris Trail
The summit of Wasson Peak rises above the last trail spur. with permission from John McCall
Near Hugh Norris Trail
Wasson Peak Circle Trail on a very windy and dusty Tucson morning.
Near Hugh Norris Trail
California poppies. EVERYWHERE!

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Driving Directions
Hike Trail

Hugh Norris Trail

4.4 (11 Ratings)
The most scenic trail in Saguaro National Park West.
4.8
mi
Distance
2,243
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
ViewsWildflowersWildlife
Access Issues
Trail is open year-round but may be too hot from June through September. Expect minimal shade; bring plenty of water.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
4.78mi
Distance
2,243ft
Elevation Gain
242ft
Elevation Loss
60%
Max Grade
4,589ft
High Point
2,572ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
The trail begins in a forest of saguaros and chollas. After about 1 mile you start a steep climb up a series of switchbacks while enjoying incredible views of the canyon below. From here the trail stays at a relatively easy grade for several miles. Along the way you'll come across massive boulders, hundreds of saguaros, and views all the way to Kitt Peak and Baboquivari. 2.7 miles into the hike, Hugh Norris intersects Sendero Esperanza Trail - continue east. The trail will begin climbing a bit more steeply before reaching another brutal set of switchbacks. Halfway through the switchbacks, there is an open, flat area that serves as a great resting place with views of Picacho Peak and the Santa Catalina Mountains. Once you reach the top of the switchbacks the trail meets King Canyon Trail and Wasson Peak Trail. Most folks continue up the .3 mile trail the Wasson Peak, the highest point in the Tucson Mountain range.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
Anonymous Adventurer
Some Issues
Anonymous Adventurer
All Clear
Anonymous Adventurer
All Clear
Anonymous Adventurer
All Clear
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Nearby Hike Routes

Wasson Peak - Hugh Norris

Hike Route

Wasson Peak - Hugh Norris

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+2,477 ft
Wasson Peak Circle Route

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Wasson Peak Circle Route

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Brown Mountain

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Brown Mountain

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Wasson Peak Summit

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Wasson Peak Summit

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+2,179 ft
Thunderbird Trail

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Thunderbird Trail

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Safford Peak

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Safford Peak

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strenuous
3.45 mi
+1,630 ft
Contributors
Austin Thomas