How is it possible to pick a favorite hike in the challenge when each one is truly amazing?  With the long and winding road through the Saguaro National Park as an enchanting preamble, the Wasson Peak hike is an absolute dazzler.  We chose a weekday mid-day for our excursion, and were absolutely wowed by the desert in bloom.  Hiking, as an Alltrails reviewer recommended, in a counter clockwise direction on the loop from King's Canyon trailhead proved a great one.  The ascent is rocky, loose shale.  While that is suboptimal for footing, extra care and time make all the difference. I'm an avid pole user and found them especially helpful here.  The trail on the descent is packed sand and very well groomed.  Many hand-forged steps, top notch conditions.  A great reward in keeping with the sweeping Tuscon views from the peak.  Fantastic!!  Stop to take in the surroundings.  This time of year, the desert is just showing off!  Recent rains again make for the ideal trail conditions and very happy cacti.  We felt like we were in a botanical garden~every variety of cactus at differing elevations were a virtual visual delight.  An avid and frequent hiker, I noticed fatigue in my legs on this one.  I wondered if altitude could have some affect here. Or perhaps it was just the day.  At any rate, I took plenty of scenic vista breaks.

As noted on Alltrails by several reviewers, no shade, so be prepared with ample water, sunhat, block, etc.  Also, while you are in the Saguaro National Park, take time to drive through the park using the Bajada Loop.  It's about 5 miles on a packed dirt road.  Some of the most stunning saguaro stands in the state.  Don't miss it!