Gibbon Mountain, AZ

The peak that gets all the recognition towering above the Bear Canyon drainage is the impressive Thimble Peak... yet Gibbon Mountain, across the canyon on the ridge is five hundred feet higher, and is deserving of a visit. Its peak and the surrounding ridge are composed of an interesting assortment of sculpted rock formations that provide endless playtime in minor bouldering. The peak itself is an easy walk up. Probably best combined with a longer approach than the simple access from the old Soldier Camp upper trailhead. It makes for an interesting destination point when added to the lower Soldier Trail. Whichever point you begin your hike, the approach to Gibbon Mountain is ultimately all off-trail, and you will have to choose your own route. I favor heading up the old road leading to Sycamore Reservoir, then instead of cresting the hill and dropping over into the Reservoir drainage, head off trail to the left, winding up and left around towards the small false peaks above you. Once there, traverse around those to the west side, above the very long drainage coming in from the south and west, and then simply enjoy the looping traverse around and up the ridge to the south and east of Gibbon Mountain.


Once on the top of the ridge, the peak provides an impressive overview of the drainages below, and if you take the time to follow the mountain ridge down to the west, you will find yourself overlooking the Seven Falls area. Directly below the peak the dam and drainage for the Sycamore Reservoir are obvious, and you'll note some very interesting potential canyon hiking in that rocky cut. Something for another day?

Review maps for a nice orientation towards this peak... there are many approaches and descent options, but if you drop down too close towards the reservoir you may find the route too overgrown... nicer to approach and descend from the ridge further away from Sycamore Basin.


So, give Thimble Peak's big brother a shot... you'll like it!

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2010-03-29 imike