Short, steep, great Picketpost view! by CannondaleKid
Peak 4140 is located in the Mineral Mountain Quadrangle, which is just south of the US 60 between Florence Junction and Superior. Typical of peaks in the Mineral Mountain Quad, the drive to the trailhead is every bit as much of a challenge as the actual climb, and Peak 4140 is no different. Depending on the capability of your vehicle and how far you are willing to drive it, one-way this hike can be less than half-a-mile or up to 2 miles each way. If you begin your hike from the same point as I did, it will be the same trailhead as for used for Peaks 4141 & 4020.
From the trailhead you start right away with a steep climb, gaining 250' in the first 0.2 miles. At that point, it levels out and you start to descend to a saddle before an easy ascent toward the base of Peak 4140. As you approach the peak itself it may appear a bit daunting if you're not a climber, but if you bear to your right around the base you will find any easy route up the chute to the summit. The views from the summit are well worth the rough drive and short hike. To the northeast, the prominence of Picketpost Mountain is the most noticeable feature.
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The trip to the summit is about 0.4 miles taking just over 30 minutes, so depending on how much time you spend on the summit this trip takes just over an hour, which may have been just enough to get warmed up for more. And... being so close to Peak 4141 and Peak 4020, you may want to climb them as well to make it a three-peak day.
When hiking several trails on a single "hike", log it with a generic name that describes the hike. Then link the trails traveled, check out the example.
WARNING! Hiking and outdoor related sports can be dangerous. Be responsible and prepare for the trip. Study the area you are entering and plan accordingly. Dress for the current and unexpected weather changes. Take plenty of water. Never go alone. Make an itinerary with your plan(s), route(s), destination(s) and expected return time. Give your itinerary to trusted family and/or friends.
Permit $$
AZ State Recreational Land Permits
For hiking, driving & sightseeing purposes, you seek a recreational permit.
Under "Recreational Land Use" in the link above.
2022 - $15.00 individual
2022 - $20.00 family limited to two adults and children under the age of 18
Plus $1 processing fee
The permitting process is quick, you will be emailed your permit instantly.
To hike Take the US 60 east toward Globe, continuing about 3.5 miles east of Florence Junction to the turn-off onto the dirt North Mineral Mountain Road. You will be crossing Arizona Trust Land so be sure to have secured your annual permit. Heading south from the US 60 you will continue on N Mineral Mtn Rd to the junction with Ajax Mine Trail (road) at about 7 miles. (Note, there will be other junctions before this point so I'd recommend you download the GPS route for the drive.) Continue east on Ajax Mine Trail for about 5.2 miles to N33.20716 W111.15008. This is the junction where Ajax Mine Trail, Telegraph Canyon Road (SW from Superior), and Forest Road 976 meet. From there I'd suggest following the GPS Route I posted.
page created by CannondaleKid on Jul 08 2012 11:36 am