HikeArizona.COM

I went to the Dixie Mine trailhead off Golden Eagle Blvd today and found a large fence with information regarding a new subdivision just beyond. There were large "No Trespassing" signs everywhere. I just saw a post on Thompson Peak here a few days ago, so I was surprised at the blocked access. Does anyone know if there is better access to the McDowell Mountain summits (like Thompson, McDowell, East End, etc)?

Boxer, I lamented the day "they" put the trail from Golden Eagle and insisted that us hikers take this route and not the original road off of Dixie Mine road. I resisted this change and continued to take the road and will continue as such. Try it.

In response to sidhayes' reply:

How do I find this road? Also, any experience with the other peaks in the area? Seems like there could be some interesting experiences in the McDowells if the access weren't such an issue.

I have a book called, "Arizona's Mountians" written by Bob and Dotty Martin. It has a route description in the back for East End. This is one that I was concidering doing next year. It's a mountain that I am highly interested in.

Here's what the book has to say about it:

McDowell Mountains-East End(4,067 feet)
In the northern part of Phoenix area, drive almost three miles east of Reata Pass to 128th Street. Turn south and drive 3.5 miles. Park at a "T" north of the peak. Hike south and bear southest up a long ridge. Follow beaten paths and pick your way around major ridge obstacles. THere are bothe steep sections and flat areas on the way to the summi. (4 miles; 1,400 feet)

East End is most easily ascended by the route that Mr. Martin puts in his book and it is a short and easy climb. A longer route is from the "trailhead" for Thompson Peak. McDowell Peak is ascended from the Golden Eagle road area and is a cross country route like most of the peaks in the McDowells.

In response to boxerjoey's reply:

Utility road is at the end of Grassland Dr between the dirt dam.