360 degree rich history views by joebartels Overview Copper is king and bighorns make good pawns in preserving our american heritage. Bag this peak for a memorable view north of Ragged Top with Picacho in the background. Keep an eye out for Hohokam andesite knives. Desert Bighorn Sheep The herd is/was the last surviving remnant of desert bighorn sheep in southeastern Arizona, having first migrated into North America 11,700+ years ago. Mining In 2014 Silver Bell Mine operator ASARCO reported four pits processing 65 tons per day. With 16.3 million in salaries and $47.3 million in spending. 2031 is the reserve life of the mine. SE View Directly 1 mile away Silver Bell Peak 4261 is 71 feet higher and the highpoint of the monument. The north ridge dropping off 4261 is home to a wildlife water catchment. Listed on topo as Guzzler. Over two dozen helicopter trips transported supplies for the contraption in the spring of 1982. Local legend hiker Pete Cowgill reported on the installation by the Arizona Desert Bighorn Sheep Society. Below the large slab catch we saw is a 5000 gallon cylindrical holding tank that resembles a cattle tank. This is 1 of 14 managed water sources in the monument. SW View Confidence Peak is the tip of the iceberg for controversy in the area. The road to the peak, the microwave station, the power lines... you name it. While the first pioneer to setup camp was the beginning of the end, local rancher Carlotta Claflin fought hard for the bighorns. Hike This off trail hike is arbitrary. The grade to the peak is semi unforgiving. Moderate-difficult at worst in my opinion with proper sleep and nutrition heading up. While cholla is abundant, vegetation is avoidable for the most part. This is not a catclaw party, that alone is reason to celebrate with cool and the gang. The Official Route includes three options. FLIVER Route is the most direct. The balance are west and east slope loop variations with Ragged Top. If you wanna rock the casbah, tackle the Billionaire Loop.
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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.
