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King Canyon Trail
This is a popular hike and the shortest route to the top of Wasson Peak (elevation 4,687 feet), the highest point in the Tucson Mountains. The first 0.9 miles is a gradual climb up to Mam-A-Gah Picnic Area, which was named after a Tohono O'odham Indian Chief. The next 1.4 miles to the junction of the Sweetwater Trail are steeper. Numerous switchbacks on the next 0.9 miles lead to the Hugh Norris Trail. The final 0.3 miles ascends the Hugh Norris Trail to the top of Wasson Peak.
At the top is an incredible 360-degree view in all directions, as you can see the other "sky island" mountain ranges including the Santa Catalinas, Rincons, Santa Ritas, and Quinlans. You also have an excellent view of Tucson and its surrounding communities, so binoculars are recommended.
Note: livestock are prohibited above the Sweetwater Trail junction.
The trailhead and parking area for this hike are directly across Kinney Road from the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, two miles east of the Red Hills Visitor Center.
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I hiked this on Thursday, November 13th, 2008. The trail was in good condition and the temperature was just a bit warm with an 80-degree high in Tucson and little to no wind. I came across two other lone hikers and two pairs of hikers (4 "groups" total). The 360 view from the top is stunning and well worth the tough ascent towards the end.