Scott Mountain Summit, AZ

This peak is named for George Scott, one of the early mining entrepreneurs in the Glob-Miami district. It seems fitting since the summit overlooks the enormous Ray mine open pit and the mining activity looks like Tonka toys gone wild. This is a straightforward hike almost straight up the side of the mountain and combines solitude with a decent workout. Of course, there is also the attraction of hiking a mountain peak with your name if you happen to be a Scott.

The trail head is just south of the Slash S ranch which is an active cattle ranch. You will meet many of the inhabitants and a lot of their leavings. They seem to be reasonably calm but one bull I encountered caused me to bypass his and his ladies portion of the trail.

The hike follows a jeep trail along the top of a ridge climbing towards the south side of the peak. Along the way is a variety of mixed vegetation and cactus including Yucca and Century plants in full bloom. There are a couple of prospects and what appear to be some springs though I did not climb down to verify. At a saddle near the top, the jeep trail splits into a southern and northern segment and you follow the northern branch along the west side of the mountain for about a quarter mile. At that point, it is easy to just go straight up the mountain to the shade of some trees along the top ridge. There is no obvious trail, but there is also minimal brush or rocks. At the summit, the 360 degree views are interesting with Picket post and various Superstition landmarks visible. Then there is the fun of watching the miners work. A small summit log is in a can and glass jar and does not show too many people stopping by.

Check out the Official Route and Triplogs.

Leave No Trace and +Add a Triplog after your hike to support this local community.

2008-06-11 johnr1