Near Wasson Peak - Hugh Norris
Looking down the final stretch of trail to Wasson Peak.
Near Wasson Peak - Hugh Norris
The Santa Catalinas from the summit of Wasson Peak.
Near Wasson Peak - Hugh Norris
Peak - looking SE
Near Wasson Peak - Hugh Norris
Looking west from Wasson Peak.
Near Wasson Peak - Hugh Norris
First descent on the Hugh Norris

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Hike Route

Wasson Peak - Hugh Norris

4.6 (14 Ratings)
This 5 mile trail gives you a picture perfect desert outing with a panoramic view of the greater Tucson area at the top.
9.1
mi
Distance
2,356
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
BirdingFamily FriendlyViewsWildflowersWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
9.1mi
Distance
2,356ft
Elevation Gain
2,356ft
Elevation Loss
40%
Max Grade
4,589ft
High Point
2,570ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
From the parking lot you'll spend your first mile or so ascending into the mountain on a beautifully crafted stone staircase. This is part of the Hugh Norris Trail. After the first climbing section you'll find yourself along a ridge-line where you have a couple vantage points to see for miles. The second set of climbing will be on gradual switchbacks where you'll come out to a second plateau with some wonderful views. The last climb is fairly steep with more vertical switchbacks and appears to be a false summit but don't worry because the real summit is only about 0.4 miles away. You'll have transition to the Wasson Peak Trail, but the change is almost imperceptible, and it's difficult to miss the turn.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
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Contributors
Blaine Hoppenrath