We decided to tackle our first peak a little late in the afternoon. After a long drive from our home in Tucson to Red Hills Visitor’s Center and an even further to drive to the trailhead, we finally started our hike at about 1:45pm. As we drove through the gates leading into the dirt road towards Sendero Esperanza, we were a bit worried about the “open from dawn to dusk” sign, wondering if we would be back in time for the early winter sunset.

Our worry caused us to book it up the ridge, feeling pretty out of breath on the multiple switchbacks. Wasson’s peak hides until the very end, making you think you’ve almost made it only to have to climb a little further. At the top we were rewarded with striking views of Saguaro National park and the surrounding Tucson area.

It was windy on the way down and shaded, so bring something warm in case you are also drenched in sweat as we were. Once we made if off the ridge, the sun finally decided to peak behind the overcast clouds to shine golden light on the cacti below. It took us about 3 hours and we made it with plenty of time to leave before dusk. Overall a beautiful challenge!