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    Wasson Peak via King Canyon Trail

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Moderate
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    3.5-5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    10.8 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    559 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    Directions to Trailhead

    Wasson Peak via King Canyon Trail is a 10.8 km heavily trafficked moderate trail in Saguaro National Park West near Tucson. Starting out on King Canyon Trail, you’ll hike through a collection of prickly pear, ocotillo, and saguaros up Wasson Peak for a fantastic view of the surrounding park. You can make a quick side trip on King Canyon Trail to see a tall stone structure and petroglyphs. This is a very rewarding hike that’s generally suitable for active kids and strong beginners.

    This hike can get very hot up to the peak, which can be windy and cool. We suggest wearing layers and sun protection to adapt to the changing temperatures.

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    Route Description for Wasson Peak via King Canyon Trail

    Wasson Peak is the tallest mountain in the Tucson Mountain District of Saguaro National Park. The hike to the top along King Canyon Trail is an interesting trip with a few unique historical finds to discover on the way. A quick side trip on King Canyon Trail takes you to a site with petroglyphs. Then, your hike up Wasson Peak is lined with ocotillo, prickly pear, and (of course) saguaros.

    This is a moderately difficult hike. We find it suitable for strong beginners and active older kids, but it’s also a very enjoyable hike for stronger hikers thanks to its scenery. It’s a good way to earn a summit view without needing to hike all day.

    The lower elevations of this route can be very hot during the day, but the summit can be windy and cool. Wear layers and sun protection, bring a light jacket, and bring plenty of water. You’ll want to be able to adapt to the possibility of changing temperatures.

    Dogs are not permitted on this route whether leashed or not. There is a modest day use fee required for the park and for this trail.

    The parking area is off N Kinney Road. It does fill up in busier months, so try to arrive early if you can. There are no restrooms and no water at the trailhead, so we recommend stopping at the visitor center before arriving if you need either.

    From the parking lot, take the obvious wide path. There is a split just a few steps in where you’ll stay right onto King Canyon Trail. Continue through the gate about 61 m in.

    The route is rocky, so you’ll be glad if you wore good boots. 1.0 km in, take in the view of the canyon from a ledge on the trail.

    You’ll soon begin to descend, passing a picnic area. At the wash with a three-way junction, go straight to stay in the wash.

    1.6 km into the hike, look for a left turn where the wash forks. This turn is easy to miss! Immediately after turning left, turn right up the ridge. There are some steps built into this ridge, but they’re mostly covered by the bushes.

    Begin a steady climb to 3.5 km, where you’ll crest a saddle and find the Sweetwater Trail. Turn left to head towards the peak here. You’ll begin to switchback up the ridge through the steepest part of the hike. As you crest the ridge, you’ll reach a junction. Go right here.

    Approaching the top, the view of Tucson, the Tucson Mountains, the Santa Catalinas, and the Rincon Mountains opens up. Take a seat up top and take it all in. You might need to toss on a jacket up here, or you might just enjoy a refreshing breeze if you’re here on a hotter day.

    From the top, you’ll return to the trailhead on the same route.

    Hiking Route Highlights

    Saguaro National Park West

    The two sides of Saguaro National Forest–East and West–encompass two patches of beautiful desert scenery on the eastern and western sides of the city of Tucson. The parks may be small, but they don’t lack when it comes to scenery. Saguaro National Park West is lower in elevation with a denser saguaro forest, and Saguaro National Park East is more mountainous and offers the opportunity to backpack if desired. Wasson Mountain shows off the west park in its cactus-covered glory.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is Wasson Peak via King Canyon Trail kid-friendly?

    Active children should be able to complete this trail. Younger kids might find it too difficult, but we encourage you to give it a shot!

    Are dogs allowed on Wasson Peak via King Canyon Trail?

    No, dogs are not allowed on this trail.

    How high is Wasson Peak in Tucson?

    The peak is 1,429 m tall.

    Insider Hints for Wasson Peak via King Canyon Trail

    • You can take a right after the picnic area to make the return trip a loop if you’d like some different scenery.
    • We recommend sturdy boots for this rocky route.

    Getting to the Wasson Peak via King Canyon Trail Trailhead

    The trailhead for Wasson Peak via King Canyon Trail is off Kinney Road.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      October-May

    • Pets allowed

      No

    • Family friendly

      Older Children only

    • Route Signage

      Good

    • Crowd Levels

      High

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Wasson Peak via King Canyon Trail Elevation Graph

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    Wasson Peak via King Canyon Trail Reviews

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