Ventana and Esperero Trail

The Ventana and Esperero Trail is a rugged route in the Pusch Ridge Wilderness that will, to be honest, punish your legs. This hike is unrelenting, with a steep trail, occasional overgrowth, and changing temperatures as you ascend. From Window Peak, you’ll drop down to the east past Mount Miguel. We recommend it for strong hikers who want to feel like they earned their viewpoint.

Come prepared for this adventure with plenty of water, food, good boots, and laters. It can be very hot at the beginning of the hike and then snowy or icy at the top, so you’ll need to be able to adapt to the weather. We don’t recommend this one on particularly hot or chilly days. If you’re here in the winter, you may need crampons.

From the trailhead, the route heads northwest alongside Ventana Canyon Wash, turns east, and then turns directly north. You’ll enter the canyon and follow its floor until the trail rises on your left to climb the canyon wall. You’ll continue through consistent uphill terrain before the grade increases as the peak comes fully into view. Continue climbing, then take a sharp right to approach Window Peak from the northwest. You’ll head north on the other side of the peak and drop down into the canyon that will lead you past Mount Miguel. You’ll end your hike at the Sabino Canyon Visitor Center.