Turkey Peak 7063, AZ

Overview: Turkey Peak is a small, isolated peak below the Mogollon Rim, several miles due south of Woods Canyon Lake. It is an easy peak bag if you are camping or traveling in the vicinity, and its summit affords a fine view of the Mogollon Rim and surrounding areas.


Geology: On this hike, you may notice that the ridge you are walking on is covered in what appears to be well rounded river rocks. It is, actually. These rocks are the erosional remnants of central Arizona's long vanished "Mogollon Highlands", which drained northward onto the Colorado Plateau. These erosional remnants are known as the "Rim Gravels", and are found in many places along the Mogollon Rim.Hike: Once you arrive at the highpoint of Forest Road 200, at a saddle at 6763 feet, you have reached the unofficial trailhead. There is a large, flat camping/parking area here on the left (south) side of the road. Park here, and begin climbing the forested mountainside across the road. The terrain gets easier as you climb higher, but it is never difficult.

As you climb through the open forest of pine, oak, and fir, you will soon find yourself on a ridge top that ascends gradually to the west. Frequent small openings in the trees allow for views of the Mogollon Rim to your right (north), and of the distant Sierra Ancha to your left (south). Attractive white firs decorate the ridge like well groomed Christmas trees.

The ridge eventually bends southwest, narrows, and terminates at the small, rounded summit of Turkey Peak, at 7063 feet. There is a summit register here with an extensive list of names dating back to 1994. Enjoy the view of endless, forested hill country from this nice little peak.