Johnson Peak - Chiricahua Wilderness, AZ

Overview
Johnson Peak (elevation of 8,890' with 330' of prominence) is a peak in the western Chiricahua Mountains that is near Monte Vista Peak.


Hike
The climb up to Johnson Peak is off-trail and begins at the trail junction of Morse Canyon Trail #43 and Turtle Mountain Trail #219. From the trail junction, you initially climb southwest to a ridgeline that goes up the west side of Johnson Peak. Once on the ridgeline, just stay on the spine of the ridgeline to the summit. There is a barb wire fence on the spine that is mostly on the ground that you can follow up to the summit.The initial climb up to the ridgeline is a bit steep and is mostly on pine needles that can be a bit slippery. Once on the ridgeline, there is a lot of solid rock that enhances your footing. Note that there is some occasional deadfall that you might have to navigate around.

There are some pine trees at the summit that limit your views. However, you do have a nice view of Monte Vista Peak and the Monte Vista Fire Lookout.

This is not likely to be a summit that you want to make a special trip to the Chiricahuas to do; however if you are hiking up to nearby Monte Vista Peak or if you are doing the Johhson Peak Loop Hike then hiking up to Johnson Peak might be of interest, particularly if you are a peakbagger.

2020-05-09 DixieFlyer