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Overview
Fairly isolated hike that gets you away from the crowds of Red Rock Canyon. North Peak provides views of Red Rock below and of the Spring Mountains. Note This description includes hiking the 4wd Rocky Gap Rd from the Willow Springs parking area. If you have a high clearance 4wd, you can drive the road to the parking area at the summit of the road and make this a 2.70 mile round trip hike with 700' aeg.
From the Willow Springs parking area, head west on Rocky Gap Rd. The road heads west-northwest for nearly a mile before turning to the south-southwest. The road is easy walking, with gradual elevation gain. The limestone mountain to the west contrasts sharply against the sandstone mountains to the east. Keep an eye out for bighorn, as they frequent this area. You will pass Switchback Spring a little over three miles in. There is water in the spring in the winter months, unsure about water during the summer though. After the spring the road climbs a little more steeply to Rocky Gap Summit at just over 4.5 miles. If you are driving up, this is where you will park. The trail continues at the east side of the parking area, heading east as it winds uphill through the trees. As you head east-northeast, the views start to improve and you can see Charleston Peak behind you and the Red Rock Escarpment, including Bridge Mountain ahead of you. After some switchbacks, you will reach a sign where the trail splits. Go left to continue to North Peak, while going right takes you out to Bridge Mountain. You will follow the ridge about a third of a mile up to the summit. There is a very easy scramble immediately below the summit, which should not pose a problem for any hikers, but use caution as those limestone rocks can be sharp. The summit has a few places to sit where you can be shielded from the wind, and there is a register. Enjoy the views before returning the way you came. ***The only cell service on the hike is at the summit. ***Watch for vehicles while walking on Rocky Gap Rd since there are several blind corners. Check out the Official Route and Triplogs. Leave No Trace and +Add a Triplog after your hike to support this local community. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
