March 24, 2023 Hike at Picacho Peak, Sunset Vista Trail (Short and Medium and Long hike)

Short hikers went ahead of the others. Denis led this group. This group hiked the Sunset Vista Trail. 

The Medium and Long hiker's group picture.

Nancy led the long hiker's group. We hiked to a large rock past the two-mile post and then turned around. 4.8 miles. 

Nancy's Link to All Trails

I didn't turn on the All trails until we had already hiked 0.5 miles. (green dot)

Jerry's group hiked beyond the two-mile mark, then turned around. 4.25 miles. 

Jerry's pictures

Barb's pictures from Medium group

Directions to Picacho State Park:

From Palm Creek we exit left onto Henness Rd. to Florence and make a left and continue toward Tucson. Take I-10 south to Exit, # 219  and proceed right, up to the park entrance road to the gatehouse. There is a $7.00 entrance fee per vehicle with up to 4 occupants. There are restrooms just a short drive up the road past the gatehouse on the Hunter Trail Trailhead. From the restrooms, proceed on the main park road to the Sunset Vista Trailhead at the end of the road. There is ample parking here but no restrooms. It is 31 miles and takes about 25 minutes. 

Summary: This is a fairly gentle hike until you come to the southern face of the peak. This is where it becomes difficult and we will make our turn around here! The weather forecast is sunny and a high of 68 degrees. As usual, at least one hiking pole and sunscreen would be a good idea!