Route Editor
Route Scout
Steep road with a great view by Booneman The hike to the top of Cunningham Mountain is pretty straight forward, given that it's simply a utility road to the peak. Once you reach a small parking area, there is a white gate along the gravel road heading uphill which is where you'll begin the ascent. Be prepared for some seriously steep grades as it gains approximately one hundred feet every tenth of a mile. Some areas are paved, though most of the surfaces are gravel. If you thought going up was a challenge, just wait until you start the descent! Cunningham Mountain is the highest point in the Dome Rock Mountains and the road to the top and summit offers incredible views into the Colorado River Valley near the Arizona/California border to the West and KOFA National Wildlife Refuge to the East. This area recieves heavy traffic from ATV's and 4WD vehicles. Even though the utility road is off limits to vehicles, don't expect much in the way of a true wilderness experience out here. However, if you're in the area and looking for a quick and rather challenging workout, this hike is perfect. Except in the summer. Daytime temperatures average 110 or above and can exceed 120 degrees. Be smart, be safe and bring plenty of water. Check out the Official Route and Triplogs. Gate Policy: If a gate is closed upon arrival, leave it closed after you go through. If it is open, leave it open. Leaving a closed gate open may put cattle in danger. Closing an open gate may cut them off from water. Please be respectful, leave gates as found. Leave No Trace and +Add a Triplog after your hike to support this local community.
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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.
Most recent Triplog Review
Cunningham Mountain
On the way out to Castle Dome I paid a visit to this as a warm up hike, and because I thought it was interesting. The summit views were quiet good, and the hike was OK. The drive in was a bit much, and though I made it with no trouble, I saw no need to repeat it in the opposite direction, and so I used the gas line road to return to US 95. If you do want to hike this, I recommend approaching on the gas road, which is a few miles south of the description's turn, and marked by a gas pipe thing on the west side of the road. It is also due east of the peak, and a logical straight shot at Cunningham.
Good summit views with nice clear air and some Colorado River views made this an interesting one. Scenic area, but not a hike I would be likely to repeat any time soon, as it is nothing special, being a road. After heading out, I went south on 95 and watched the sunset while on my way to Castle Dome.
Good summit views with nice clear air and some Colorado River views made this an interesting one. Scenic area, but not a hike I would be likely to repeat any time soon, as it is nothing special, being a road. After heading out, I went south on 95 and watched the sunset while on my way to Castle Dome.
2015-12-18 Jim_H
