HIKE OF THE MONTH

HIKE of the month HUGH NORRIS BIG LOOP Like most national parks, Saguaro National Park features an extensive network of hiking trails. In all, there are 171 miles to explore, including 6.7 on this scenic loop. BY ROBERT STIEVE / PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOEL HAZELTON

In sociology, the dichotomy of East and West is a polarization of ideology, culture and religion. In Saguaro National Park, it's an alluring cliche: six of one and half a dozen of the other. Both sides of the park - there's an east district and a west district - offer a similar experience. But there are distinctions.

The Rincon Mountain District (east) is more than twice as big as its counterpart, while the Tucson Mountain District (west) has more than twice as many picnic areas. The highest elevation on the east side (8,666 feet) is higher than on the west side (4,687 feet), but the saguaro density is greater in the west. In regard to hiking, there are 128 miles of trails in the east and 43 in the west, including the Hugh Norris Big Loop. It's the perfect hike for January.

From the trailhead, the Big Loop begins with the Hugh Norris Trail, one of four segments along the way. There's no warmup. The well-marked trail begins with an immediate ascent through a thicket of saguaros - you won't forget what park you're in. In the space between the saguaros are chollas, paloverdes and creosote bushes. The initial climb is steady with a few switchbacks, but it's never grueling. As you make your way up and look to the west, you'll see the Roskruge Mountains and Ironwood Forest National Monument in the distance. Enticements for another day. About 20 minutes in, the trail arrives at a saddle where nice views open up to the east. Intuitively, you'll think you're at the top, but you're not. Half the