We hiked the Sendero Esperanza Trail, from the trailhead near the Ez-Kim-In-Zin Picnic Area, to Wasson Peak, in the West Unit of the Park. It's a moderately difficult 8.6 mile round trip hike through the Sonoran Desert. The weather was perfect, in the low 70s. The hike took us 3 hours and 9 minutes, round trip. We averaged 2.6 mph walking speed.

The trail climbs gradually from the trailhead, along a pediment (or bajada) to the base of the range. From there it climbs up a series of long switchbacks to a junction with the Hugh Norris Trail, coming in from the west, at about 1.7 miles. Take the Hugh Norris Trail to the east, along the ridge, another 2.2 miles, to Wasson Peak. The trail tends to be gravelly in most areas, with rocky stretches. The footing is good, and the trail is easy to follow.

From the peak there are great views of Tucson and the Santa Catalina and Rincon mountains to the north and east, and a variety of other ranges in all other directions. The day we were there the air was hazy, but the sky was blue. On the trail you will pass a wide range of Sonoran Desert vegetation, including the spectacular Saguaro cactus, in all stages of growth.

The GPS Coordinates are: N 32 17 097; W111 10 064 ( with 14 foot accuracy). The trailhead elevation is 2,988, while on Wasson Peak it is 4,678 feet above sea level.

The Ez-Kim-In-Zin Picnic Area, across the gravel road from the trailhead, has tables, fire pits, pit toilets, and wonderful desert scenery.

One the way out we spotted a nice looking Roadrunner along the road. We also spotted a Phainopepla, a very black bird that looks like a stealth cardinal. We also spotted several Cactus Wrens and a Gila Woodpecker.