Over the first couple of months of 2016, I've been intrigued by a book entitled "The Rocks Begin To Speak". This book attempts to shed some light on the fundamentals of rock writing by native cultures. In testing some of the author's claims and theories, I set out to the Sutherland Wash, north of Catalina State Park, where I knew of a vast sampling of petroglyphs. After several visits to the area and some basic interpretation of some of the more straightforward writings, it was evident that the prominent hill to the east was of some importance. I counted no fewer than six obvious references to it in the over 250 pictures I had taken. So now, all I knew was that this hill was important but had no clue why. The next logical thing to do, seed to be climbing it.
I picked a pleasant day to climb the hill and used the primary routes that the rocks writings had suggested. One to ascend and the other to descend. Upon reaching the peak, I was no more enlightened by its importance than before, but the views from up there are amazing. It required a notable blood donation over some of the loosest terrain I've seen to bag this little guy, but I think I would do it again if I were out that way. If for no other reason, just because it's there.
The track I've posted is but the way I chose to approach this hill. There are no trails to or from the hill in any direction that I could see. I feel that the routes that I utilized were the best ways to approach it, and I believe that those routes are recorded in rock writings on the boulders below.
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.
Permit $$
None
Directions
Road
FR / Jeep Road - Car possible when dry
To hike & climb trip From North Oracle Rd and Golder Ranch Rd in Catalina, head west for approximately 2 miles until the pavement ends, and you cross a cattle guard. Once over the cattle guard, turn sharply north and travel about 6 tenths of a mile where you'll see a corral on the east side of the road. Turn east at this point and follow the road as far as your vehicle will allow (this should be easily another 6 tenths of a mile). From your Parking point, hike the road to the beginning of the hike.
page created by Mountain_Rat on Mar 02 2016 5:37 pm
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