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All by yourself by Davis2001r6 Overview: If you looking for a remote off trail climb then this is your peak. Warning: Just like it says above, this is a remote peak that not very many people summit. There is no trail to the top, it's all off trail and up to you to pick your own lines. This isn't a hike you will want to do in the warmer months. Getting to the trailhead: This is half the fun for the hike, the road begins just outside the town of Wenden, AZ. You follow some farming canals part of the way then make your way to the dirt road that leads up the mountain. Highclearance is absolutely necassary, 4x4 if it's muddy as well as making it on the upper portions of the road. There is a large wash to cross about 1.5 miles from the actual trail head near the Doland Mine Site. Expect to get a good amount of Arizona pinstripping on the way there. The road is rocky and overgrown. We got a flat when we made it to the trail head, I was glad to have a fullsize spare and a highlift jack to make quick work of changing the tire. Look at my GPS route for directions to the trail head. Hike: If you made it past the wash and start seeing tin cans along the road your about ready to hike. The easiest and most direct way to climb the mountain is via the Southeast Ridge. It's steep and has some scree in places but isn't very technical. Class 3 at the most in a few spots. There is plenty of cactus and catsclaw to dodge along the way. I would recommend wearing pants. The route is pretty obvious and just continue up the ridge until you reach a ridge that you can continue west towards the summit. We choose to head down the east ridge which took a lot longer and was a pretty good bushwack in places. We did get to see the remains of the Doland Mine taking this route though. There is one open shaft that goes a long way down judging from the rock we threw down it. Water Sources: Bring your own, we didn't see a drop of water along the route anywhere. Camping: We did camp near the end of the road a 1/2 mile below the mine, you could tell it was once the miners camp judging from the hundreds of tin cans everywhere. I would recommend camping at the large wash on the road in, there is a nice level area and a fire ring there. Cell Phone Signal: We did have a signal at the TH as well as on top the mountain. At the trailhead mine cut out a few times. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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.
