DWTH Day 4: Saguaro National Park West

Daily Miles: 15.7, Total Miles: 50.8

A cool, clear morning but warming up fast as I headed into the West Unit of Saguaro National Park.

I had a nice chat with a few day hikers as I skirted just under Wasson Peak. One couple noticed my Triple Crown ball cap. They were from Steamboat Springs and had seen plenty of CDT hikers but I was their first Triple Crowner. Embarrassing with pics and all but they had both hiked the Colorado portion so a few good stories.

Mostly good trails and a short cross-country desert stretch got me down to N Kinney Road with just a few sips of water remaining.

I was happy to arrive at the Red Hills Visitors Center, busy on a Sunday afternoon. Sure enjoyed a rest, cold water and a late lunch. Checked in with Mrs. Haze and confirmed a pickup late in the afternoon.

Headed pretty much due west, first on a utility corridor and then a narrow, paved road for five miles to an entrance to the Ironwood Forest National Monument (IFNM). I got some good info from http://blm.gov/visit/ironwood. Perfect timing with Mrs. Haze soon arriving with a cold beverage.

A good first leg on the DWTH with a beautiful transition from the top of the Catalinas to the desert floor across Tucson, then up and over the Tucson Mountains.

My primary concern for the next leg is the winter drought we have been experiencing in SE Arizona. I know there are a few hikers ahead of me and I will be checking the water reports. I hope to get another section done this winter/early spring. We are just starting a big home remodeling project and pretty busy getting ready.