Smith Peak, AZ

Overview
A hike to the top of a remote desert peak in the Harcuvar Mountains. Follow an old track to a dirt road to take in the views.


Hike
This one is a fairly straightforward hike to the highest point in Western Arizona's remote Harcuvar Mountains. Depending on where you parked, you should see an old dirt road track heading steeply up the southern face of the mountain directly in front of you. This road track is incredibly steep and sees little to no vehicle traffic, so your heart rate will get going in a hurry. Brush and loose rocks are frequent. You will gain elevation quickly in this stretch as this old track angles towards the main ridge of the Harcuvars east of Smith Peak. The angle doesn't relent until you get to this point, where you'll run into the well-graded dirt road leading to the towers atop the peak. From here, the peak is only a few hundred feet above you but still 1.5 miles away. Walk along the dirt road along the crest of the Harcuvars and take in the views in both directions - nothing will block your view. You may have to dodge an occasional service vehicle heading to and from the summit towers. The road does lose some elevation in stretches before finally heading up the summit proper. This makes for a great half-day hike and offers a glimpse of a part of the state that sees little traffic.Water Sources
None. Bring plenty.

Camping
A few primitive campsites were around. We started at a fire pit at our parking spot and saw a few spots along the road. Check with the Lake Havasu Field Office for regulations, but the area sees little visitation.

2009-02-23 sbkelley