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| Hiking | 13.00 Miles |
3,900 AEG |
| | Hiking | 13.00 Miles | 13 Hrs | | 1.30 mph |
| 3,900 ft AEG | 3 Hrs Break | | | |
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| no partners | | The Mission was to hike Hat Mountain and explore a couple more miles of the Sauceda Mountains.
Hat Mountain is a prominent feature within Area B, of the Barry M. Goldwater Range. It has an allure about it, a presence, forever looming in the background, that draws folks in for a closer look.
The hike started early in the AM under a waning moon. Moving out with a mix of excitement and trepidation, I reached the first hilltop observation post before sunrise. I typically do not have the patience to sit around using binoculars or spotting scopes, preferring to always be on the go, ever curious as to what lies behind the next bend. However, a few dicey situations have brought about a change in tactics. This time, I made the effort to give each valley or hillside a cursory glance with the optics before moving in, and sat for longer spells at the observation posts. Binoculars are a useful tool when reconnoitering new ground and see beyond the usual 50 yard horizon.
Hat Mountain is not difficult to hike: it is only a 1400' elevation gain and a two mile round trip from the road. However, the final pitch is very exposed and should be done with rope and a harness, in my opinion. The military frowns on risky behavior at the BMGR, and permit holders are on the hook financially for any expenses incurred on their behalf, such as getting rescued, etc. I hiked up to the top dome but did not gain the summit; it can be done, the best approach is from the east end. The peak register showed lots of visitors, ranging from church groups to college geology field trips.
The Air Force typically does not conduct flights on Sundays at the BMGR, which is the best time to visit if you want to avoid border issues. The smugglers prefer to work when the range is active, as the bombing hazard keeps law enforcement from entering the area. The actual bombing and strafing flights are confined to certain locations so it is easy to pass through unharmed, especially if they stick to the established smuggling routes. By established, I mean some of the best looking trails in the state: leveled walking surfaces composed of soft dirt or gravel, manageable grades with switchbacks, and almost free of rocks. I blew through there at a 3.5 mph hike speed no problem.
Wildlife is rather sparse in the western deserts, so the binoculars were helpful in spotting that precious little. I saw a couple of kit foxes, three mule deer, and birds of several types on this excursion. One of the foxes was near the top of Table Mountain of all places. No sheep once again, and I have come to the conclusion that there is not a significant herd in the Sauceda Mountains, unless they are hiding out in the far east end near Tom Thumb. Only one way to find out. |
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Wildflowers Observation Isolated
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