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Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap) - 15 members in 29 triplogs have rated this an average 3.3 ( 1 to 5 best )
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29 triplogs
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Aug 26 2025
avatar

 Guides 2
 Routes 267
 Photos 9,816
 Triplogs 402

62 male
 Joined Dec 02 2014
 Mesa, AZ
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)Phoenix, AZ
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Aug 26 2025
adilling • Triplogs 402
Hiking3.00 Miles 615 AEG
Hiking3.00 Miles   2 Hrs   45 Mns   1.09 mph
615 ft AEG
 
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
The conditions looked promising, so I headed out in the dark to catch the sunrise from the ridge below Peak 2881. I arrived about 5am and parked along Hwy 88 and started up. The old road makes for an easy trail to follow.

Once I made it up to the ridgeline and started towards the peak, I could see a clear trail in place. This little hike, and the loop you can make from it, has become less of a bushwhack that it was in the past.

The clouds looked promising, but I wasn't seeing any color-show developing. I moved along the higher points to get a view of Canyon Lake and set up to wait for the sunrise. There was some color after all, but it didn't last long.

Waiting for the sun to appear, it looks like the hazy skies muted it a little. I was still able to get some nice sunstars. As soon as the sun popped over the horizon, the clouds came in and blocked it out. I explored a little more towards the peak, but I had to finish up and get to work.

This cool area is always a treat to visit. Once the heat subsides, I will probably hit the loop towards the Horns of Dilemma and explore this very interesting area of the Goldfields.

A good way to start a day for sure. The calmness of the sunrise, not much noise except the bees that always seem to find. The coolness of the air and the glorious show Mother Nature puts on every morning.
_____________________
"Jobs fill your pockets, adventures fill your soul."

instagram: @andydilling
  1 archive
Jan 06 2025
avatar

 Photos 3,883
 Triplogs 169

80 male
 Joined Mar 18 2012
 mesa,az
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)Phoenix, AZ
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Jan 06 2025
jameslcox44 • Triplogs 169
Hiking6.00 Miles 615 AEG
Hiking6.00 Miles
615 ft AEG
 no routes
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
Ron and Glen chose to do a local hike that would take in some pretty rugged climbing to see some arches they had discovered on an earlier hike. Seven of us from Venture Out made the trek and enjoyed the great views of Canyon and Saguaro Lakes in addition to the variety of arches. We started on trail and ended on trail, but a lot of 'bushwhacking' to find the spots we were focused on.
 Named place
 Named place [ checklist ]
[ checklist ]  Horns of a Dilemma  Peak 2881 - Goldfield Mtns
_____________________
 
Jan 05 2025
avatar

 Guides 59
 Routes 1,100
 Photos 1,191
 Triplogs 1,290

male
 Joined Jan 01 2023
 Arizona
2881 Consensus Loop - Goldfield MountainsPhoenix, AZ
2881 Consensus Loop - Goldfield Mountains
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Jan 05 2025
pseudalpine • Triplogs 1,290
Hiking
Hiking
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   linked  
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)
Horns Of Dilemma
Willow Creek to Saguaro Lake
Partners none no partners
 Fauna
 Fauna [ checklist ]
[ checklist ]  Dog
 Named place
 Named place [ checklist ]
[ checklist ]  Canyon Lake  Four Peaks
 Meteorology
 Meteorology [ checklist ]
[ checklist ]  Smoke
  2 archives
Jan 01 2025
avatar

 Guides 99
 Routes 1,485
 Photos 16,072
 Triplogs 1,375

male
 Joined Jan 07 2017
 Fountain Hills,
Horny 2881, AZ 
Horny 2881, AZ
 
Hiking avatar Jan 01 2025
DixieFlyer • Triplogs 1,375
Hiking7.75 Miles 1,670 AEG
Hiking7.75 Miles   6 Hrs   8 Mns   1.47 mph
1,670 ft AEG      51 Mns Break
 
1st trip
Linked   linked  
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)
2881 Consensus Loop - Goldfield Mountains
Horns Of Dilemma
Willow Creek to Saguaro Lake
Partners none no partners
Route Scout Route Recorded  on Route Scout | Pop | Map | Popup | MapDEX
I had been wanting to hike up to Peak 2881, and since I had never been to Horns of a Dilemma I figured that I would go there also. Rather than doing an out-and-back we made a loop out of it by coming back on Willow Creek.

We did the loop clockwise.

We followed a pretty decent use trail up to Peak 2881. The scenery was nice and this portion of the hike was enjoyable, and I would do this segment again.

We then made our way to the Horns, by first following a ridgeline, then picking up a good trail for a ways, and then more-or-less bushwhacking to the Horns. Views were nice on this section also so I enjoyed this portion.

From the Horns we followed a decent use trail over to Willow Creek, which we took back to the trailhead. I did not like hiking in Willow Creek at all --- walking 3+ miles in a dry creek bed isn't my thing and I thought this section was boring. We had to get out of the creek 2-3 times to bypass some dryfalls.

We eventually slogged our way back to the TH.

I enjoyed the first half of this hike; the second half not so much.
 Geology
 Geology [ checklist ]
[ checklist ]  Dry Falls  Natural Arch  Tuff
 Culture
 Culture [ checklist ]
[ checklist ]  HAZ - Hike HAZard
 Named place
 Named place [ checklist ]
[ checklist ]  Canyon Lake  Four Peaks  Goldfield Mountains  Horns of a Dilemma  McDowell Mountains  Saguaro Lake  Stewart Mountain  Superstition Mountains - Ridgeline  Weavers Needle  Willow Creek
_____________________
Civilization is a nice place to visit but I wouldn't want to live there
 
Dec 28 2024
avatar

 Guides 94
 Routes 840
 Photos 22,055
 Triplogs 1,993

52 male
 Joined Sep 18 2002
 Tempe, AZ
A Consensus of 2881 Horns, AZ 
A Consensus of 2881 Horns, AZ
 
Hiking avatar Dec 28 2024
chumley • Triplogs 1,993
Hiking5.98 Miles 1,347 AEG
Hiking5.98 Miles   4 Hrs   42 Mns   1.93 mph
1,347 ft AEG   1 Hour   36 Mns Break
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   linked  
2881 Consensus Loop - Goldfield Mountains
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)
Horns Of Dilemma
Partners none no partners
Ryan and Klaudia proposed this one and it fit the bill for an easy-ish Saturday. A few times there was a breeze that got borderline chilly, but mostly it was a little warm, fitting the theme for the last, oh, 5 years. Needless to say, not a drop of water was found. Thankfully, a similar amount of people were encountered. Did see a squadron of javvies.

We messed up on the exit by following the most established route, which dropped us out on the 88 earlier than desired.

Besides the insane number of cairns, there's been some unauthorized official trail work along the way. Not sure if it's mountain bikers or equestrians, but they've had actual tools out there clearing the path. It is what it is. Apparently not everybody appreciates undeveloped route-finding and exploration.
_____________________
I'm not sure what my spirit animal is, but I'm confident it has rabies.
 
Apr 04 2024
avatar

 Guides 104
 Routes 256
 Photos 16,118
 Triplogs 528

53 male
 Joined Dec 30 2005
 Tucson, AZ
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)Phoenix, AZ
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Apr 04 2024
Mike_W • Triplogs 528
Hiking3.40 Miles 821 AEG
Hiking3.40 Miles   2 Hrs   20 Mns   1.46 mph
821 ft AEG
 
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
After hiking Dome Mt, I had enough energy to do one last hike on the 3rd and final day of my trip. Thanks to Dean Gaudet for publishing a good route. I basically followed this route and was impressed by the many cairns that were out there. Thanks to those who took the time to put the cairns out there. It was really an enjoyable hike!

Along the hike I saw regular cholla, teddy bear cholla, sahuaros, ocotillo, mormon tea, hedgehog cactus, brittlebush, creosote, palo verde, longleaf indian paintbrush, exserted indian paintbrush (pink), lanceleaf liveforever, etc.

From the top, there were views of nearly everything - Weaver's needle, the Superstitions, the Salt river, the Four peaks, etc.

All in all, this was a great hike and I would do it again. The worst part of the hike was crossing the busy Highway 88 and the noise pollution. The parking spot is on a blind corner in both directions but the speed limit is marked at 25 MPH, not that anyone goes that slow, though.

Stats:
-------
Distance (round trip) = 3.35 miles
AEG = 821 feet
Strava moving time = 2 hrs 4 mins
Strava elapsed time = 2 hrs 53 mins
wildflower observationwildflower observationwildflower observationwildflower observationwildflower observation
Wildflowers Observation Moderate
regular cholla, teddy bear cholla, sahuaros, ocotillo, mormon tea, hedgehog cactus, brittlebush, creosote, palo verde, longleaf indian paintbrush, exserted indian paintbrush (pink), lanceleaf liveforever
_____________________
Michael Williams
IT Professional
Rocky Point Vacation Rentals
Ocean Front Condo in Rocky Point, Sonora, Mexico
www.beachfrontmexico.us
Image
  3 archives
Dec 23 2023
avatar

 Guides 94
 Routes 840
 Photos 22,055
 Triplogs 1,993

52 male
 Joined Sep 18 2002
 Tempe, AZ
Rainy Goldfield Wander, AZ 
Rainy Goldfield Wander, AZ
 
Hiking avatar Dec 23 2023
chumley • Triplogs 1,993
Hiking8.29 Miles 2,147 AEG
Hiking8.29 Miles   4 Hrs   14 Mns   1.99 mph
2,147 ft AEG      4 Mns Break
 no routes
Linked   linked  
2881 Consensus Loop - Goldfield Mountains
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)
Horns Of Dilemma
Partners partners
John9L
Mave1878
patrickakabird
With a full day of steady rain lingering into the next morning and plenty of time before a mid-afternoon flight, I figured the Goldfields would be a good spot to knock out a few miles to take advantage of the conditions without having to spend too much time driving to and fro.

Somebody has decided that the undeveloped route to 2881 should be marked with cairns often reaching 3 feet in height, and built so closely to each other that the lovechild of Stevie Wonder and Helen Keller could find this summit while drunk. Needless to say, I enjoyed returning some of the pristine views here to a more natural state, politely leaving two or three rocks stacked in some key locations for those who might otherwise be unable to solve the puzzle of ascending to the visible summit above.

North of 2881, the path was more enjoyable, with much more discovery and adventure. Rain showers lingered off and on, and the storm low clouds moved in and out, sometimes obscuring our view to less than 100 feet, and other times opening up great scenes across the landscape. It was pretty perfect!

We swung by the Horns of Dilling before dropping down and making our way off-trail up the drainage back toward the car. I was hoping for a little bit more flow here, but despite the rain, a long dry spell resulted in mostly just a trickle with a few pools.

After the drive home I had time for a quick shower and arrived at PHX as the last group was boarding. Couldn't think of a better way to do it!
_____________________
I'm not sure what my spirit animal is, but I'm confident it has rabies.
  2 archives
Mar 12 2022
avatar

 Guides 25
 Routes 376
 Photos 5,897
 Triplogs 346

40 male
 Joined Mar 01 2018
 Chandler, AZ
Peak 2881 - Horns - Keyhole - Massif - Willow, AZ 
Peak 2881 - Horns - Keyhole - Massif - Willow, AZ
 
Hiking avatar Mar 12 2022
John10s • Triplogs 346
Hiking11.56 Miles 2,479 AEG
Hiking11.56 Miles   9 Hrs   39 Mns   1.51 mph
2,479 ft AEG   2 Hrs    Break
1st trip
Linked   6 linked trail guides
2881 Consensus Loop - Goldfield Mountains
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)
Canyon Lake Massif - Peak 2276
Horns Of Dilemma
Little Keyhole Saddle
Willow Creek to Saguaro Lake
Partners partners
TboneKathy
We headed to the northeast Goldfields to check out some new areas, and I cobbled together a few different points of interest from various routes and triplogs, mostly centered around the 2881 Consensus Loop, knowing we wouldn't have time to see them all today. We parked at the small pullout along SR 88 where the Consensus Loop starts and followed the route clockwise toward 2881 on a windy morning. The route leading toward the peak was extremely well-cairned...I recognized @Yoder's handiwork from hiking Sunset Arch a few months ago, and some of the cairns along the route today were as much artwork as they were trail markers :).

We circled around to the east side and then up to the peak, and the wind was almost unbearable on top, with gusts that must have been up to 40-50 mph. The views were great, but we didn't spend much time up there before heading down the more gradual slope on the north side.

[ youtube video ]

The traverse to Horns was a very scenic area, with a small arch along the route and a good size cave up in the formations behind us. I'd added the Little Keyhole Saddle route among the other points of interest, and after hiking down from Horns, @TBoneKathy waited while I took a quick detour to see if I could find the keyhole. I didn't have a specific location and didn't know what it looked like, but when I reached the spot where I thought it might be located, I did see a tiny, keyhole-shaped arch on top of a rock formation. The description said it was small, but this was only a few inches tall...someone who's been there will have to confirm if what I saw was actually Little Keyhole. If so, that's the smallest named rock formation I've encountered...if not, I guess I found Really Little Keyhole.

We detoured off the main loop again and explored north toward Peaks 2178 and 2135 and saw a few arches, but I didn't have time to go up to the peaks. Next up was Canyon Lake Massif 2276. Hiking along SR 88 with all the road noise wasn't exactly a highlight today, but the views from the massif made it a worthwhile stop, and the wind had calmed down some by afternoon.

[ youtube video ]

We hiked back to the loop and headed south following Willow Creek. It was a lot more rugged than a lot of the other Goldfield creek beds, and we had to bypass multiple deep pools on the hike out. The official route has two of the pools marked, but we there were 4-5 that we ended up navigating around--all of them surprisingly deep given the dry conditions, though it looked like at least one was fed from a spring upstream. The final large pool had a lot of debris nearby...old irrigation tubing, buckets, rusty pipe, and other random stuff. That final section of the loop ended up being a lot and interesting than anticipated...there's a lot more going on down along the spring than you'd ever see just driving by on 88.

As expected, we didn't get to everything I'd mapped out, but it was a good day with a lot of variety in the terrain and scenery. In typical Goldfield fashion, we saw ~3x the number of arches as we saw other hikers today :). And I found a Leatherman multi-tool in the dirt on the way to Horns of Dilemma, which was a nice bonus.
 Geology
 Geology [ checklist ]
[ checklist ]  Natural Arch
 Culture
 Culture [ checklist ]
[ checklist ]  Boat / Ship  Cairn
 Named place
 Named place [ checklist ]
[ checklist ]  Canyon Lake  Four Peaks  Goldfield Mountains  Mormon Flat Dam  Saguaro Lake  Weavers Needle
  1 archive
Jan 01 2022
avatar

 Routes 27
 Photos 189
 Triplogs 29

52 male
 Joined May 27 2013
 Apache Junction,
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)Phoenix, AZ
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Jan 01 2022
TeamBillyGoat • Triplogs 29
Hiking2.82 Miles 857 AEG
Hiking2.82 Miles   2 Hrs   22 Mns   1.51 mph
857 ft AEG      30 Mns Break
 
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
I’ve had this peak in mind since doing 2811 last week. I decided to keep working this particular area. The “no man’s land” between the Supes and the Goldfields. It’s a nice short hike if you don’t have a lot of extra time. I followed the old jeep trail until it ends. Then followed the obvious route along the ridge. Even without the numerous oversized cairns, it’s pretty hard to get lost. You never lose sight of the final goal. Last push up is steep but short. Awesome 360 views of Four Peaks, Supes, Goldfields, Saguaro Lake and Canyon lake.
_____________________
 
May 31 2021
avatar

 Guides 2
 Routes 267
 Photos 9,816
 Triplogs 402

62 male
 Joined Dec 02 2014
 Mesa, AZ
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)Phoenix, AZ
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar May 31 2021
adilling • Triplogs 402
Hiking2.50 Miles 415 AEG
Hiking2.50 Miles
415 ft AEG   2 Hrs    Break
 
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
I wanted to get in one more quick hike for the long weekend and decided to hike up near Peak 2882. The access to the little ridge is quick and easy along the old Jeep road that starts just south of the Apache Gap viewpoint area. I parked in the little pull out about 100 yards south and hiked up to the ridge.

I had some friends with me and their kids. We planned to hike to the top of 2882 originally, but opted to stay on the little ridgeline below.

We came across a diamondback that rattled a little and then slithered off, and we saw a couple of sheep below the ridge in the tuff. Always very cool to see critters out there.

The heat was up in the high 90's, but it wasn't too bad as the sun got lower and lower.

Some unexpected clouds on the horizon made for a subtle but nice sunset.

We hiked back down in the twilight and made it back to the truck. A few miles in a few hours....a little sunshine, some great scenery, a couple of desert dwelling critters and a nice sunset. A nice ending to the long weekend.
_____________________
"Jobs fill your pockets, adventures fill your soul."

instagram: @andydilling
 
Jan 18 2021
avatar

 Guides 1
 Routes 14
 Photos 7,202
 Triplogs 5,208

68 male
 Joined Mar 16 2008
 chandler,az
2881 - Horns - Willow, AZ 
2881 - Horns - Willow, AZ
 
Hiking avatar Jan 18 2021
johnlp • Triplogs 5,208
Hiking7.60 Miles 1,802 AEG
Hiking7.60 Miles   4 Hrs   44 Mns   1.77 mph
1,802 ft AEG      26 Mns Break
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   linked  
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)
Horns Of Dilemma
Partners partners
trekkin_gecko
Kelly suggested a hike in the Goldfields, and I was in. Such a unique area.
Started early so we were treated to a pretty sunrise. Great views from Peak 2881. The Horns were fun to scale. Looks like one of them wouldn't be too hard to top if you had a mind to. The hike back through the wash was much better than expected. Pour offs offered some scrambling and a challenge.
Fun day. Goldfield scenery is always very cool. Thanks Kelly. :)
_____________________
“Good people drink good beer.” Hunter S Thompson
 
Jan 18 2021
avatar

 Guides 10
 Routes 673
 Photos 7,281
 Triplogs 4,660

67 female
 Joined Nov 17 2008
 phoenix, az
2881 - Horns - Willow, AZ 
2881 - Horns - Willow, AZ
 
Hiking avatar Jan 18 2021
trekkin_gecko • Triplogs 4,660
Hiking7.60 Miles 1,802 AEG
Hiking7.60 Miles   4 Hrs   44 Mns   1.77 mph
1,802 ft AEG      26 Mns Break
 
1st trip
Linked   linked  
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)
Horns Of Dilemma
Partners partners
johnlp
john had the day off so we decided not to hike south mountain this morning
i've said before that one of the best things about haz is the ideas you get from other people
we copied work from @adilling and @hikerdw, hiking a loop that included two landmarks which have been on my radar, peak 2881 and the horns of dilemma
started before sunrise, but only needed my headlamp for about ten minutes
had good light on the high points before sunrise
use trails to 2881, although we cut for the peak early
the ridgeline down to the horns was very nice
got up to the saddle between the horns
great views from all of the above
dropped down to willow creek
slow going at times in the gravel, but also cool high walls, bedrock and boulder hopping, classic goldfields scenery and some fun pour offs to negotiate
think we were 50-50 on pour off vs. bypass
all new territory for both of us - good to be back out in goldfields again
decent off trail - recommend the hike
thanks for driving, lp
good times!
_____________________
hazhole
 
Jan 16 2021
avatar

 Guides 2
 Routes 267
 Photos 9,816
 Triplogs 402

62 male
 Joined Dec 02 2014
 Mesa, AZ
2881-Horns-Willow, AZ 
2881-Horns-Willow, AZ
 
Hiking avatar Jan 16 2021
adilling • Triplogs 402
Hiking7.33 Miles 1,640 AEG
Hiking7.33 Miles
1,640 ft AEG
 
1st trip
Linked   linked  
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)
Horns Of Dilemma
Willow Creek to Saguaro Lake
Partners none no partners
My plan this weekend was to hit Byous Butte and Hewitt Ridge, but there was a brush fire off Hewitt Station Road, so I wasn’t sure how that would affect the air up there. So, plan B was do a loop that I have long wanted to accomplish – Peak 2881, Horns of Dilemma and Willow Creek Wash. I have been checking out a triplog from @hikerdw that did this in the reverse – Willow Creek to the Horns and then up to 2881. I decided the other way would suit me better, plus I would get a sunrise from there if I arrived early enough.

I have hiked all three of these multiple times, but have never put them together as a loop.

The sunrise was worth getting up early for sure. Very vibrant. The clouds took over right after sunrise and made for a gloomy start. But they eventually burnt off and it was clear skies once I started down 2881 to the Horns.

The path up to 2881 is a nice hike. I have been up to the little ridgeline below the peak often, so getting there is no problem. I skipped the direct assault on the peak and opted to skirt the edge and work my way across and then up. Once I had my visit up at the summit, I started towards the ridgeline that would connect me to the Horns.

This area was new to me and I really enjoyed the views. There’s a kinda/sorta path to follow, but the route seems very clear either way. Once I made it up to the last saddle before the Horns, I felt some relief as most of the climbing for the day was over (or so I thought…ha ha).

I skipped climbing up to the Horns and instead hiked across the backside base and headed for Willow Creek. The last time I was in Willow Creek, I took it all the way to the Lake. There was some water in there that time. It was dry as a bone this time except for the large well at the first lower falls. My memory of that hike selectively erased all the bypasses I had to do. I went down the last time. This time I was going up.

A great loop. I saw no other human beings the entire hike. I did see some javelina down in the wash area. I really love this part of the Goldfields. So scenic and wild.
_____________________
"Jobs fill your pockets, adventures fill your soul."

instagram: @andydilling
  1 archive
Dec 04 2020
avatar

 Photos 3,883
 Triplogs 169

80 male
 Joined Mar 18 2012
 mesa,az
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)Phoenix, AZ
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Dec 04 2020
jameslcox44 • Triplogs 169
Hiking4.00 Miles 1,113 AEG
Hiking4.00 Miles
1,113 ft AEG
 no routes
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
Starting from the corral near mm 208 off Apache Trail, we walk the road down to a cutoff to Willow Creek. Reaching the creek, we get into some pretty rugged areas of the creek bed. We continue down the creek until we find the cairned area leading to the top of 2881. This is some really rugged, but beautiful areas of the Goldfields that we cross on the way to the top. The route is pretty well cairned on the route we took up. Reaching the ridgeline allows great vistas of Canyon Lake, Saguaro Lake and many vistas of landmarks familiar to us from our hikes in the Goldfields. Dick chose to go down the steep area on the south side of the peak. Oh, we did find the 'log' and signed in to prove we made it to the peak. This is a fun bushwhack with overwhelming views.
_____________________
 
Aug 13 2020
avatar

 Guides 2
 Routes 267
 Photos 9,816
 Triplogs 402

62 male
 Joined Dec 02 2014
 Mesa, AZ
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)Phoenix, AZ
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Aug 13 2020
adilling • Triplogs 402
Hiking3.00 Miles 565 AEG
Hiking3.00 Miles
565 ft AEG
 
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
Checking the weather on Wednesday evening, it looked like there might be a chance of a nice sunrise on Thursday morning. So, the alarm sounded off at 330am and I was off. I did not make it to the top of Peak 2881 as I did not have the time. But, I hike up and explored the little ridge that starts off at Apache Gap off Hwy 88. I followed the old jeep road that runs along the southern base of the ridge that starts out just south of the Apache Gap parking/view area. The road takes you along the base and then up to the ridge.

The weather was perfect, not too hot and no humidity. I made it up to the ridgeline in the dark and started looking for places that might have an interesting photo angle. There is not really a trail up there, but it's easy to navigate. The clouds cooperated for a change and I was treated to a wonderful sunrise. Lots of colors and interesting clouds. This ridge is great for sunsets as well, as is Peak 2881.

If I had an extra hour, I would have gone up to the peak, but I was happy to make it out and catch such a beautiful sunrise. Once the weather cools down, I will be back to take the entire loop from there to the Horns and back up Willow Creek. Such an interesting area for sure!

Here's a quick video I made. It really shows the vibrant colors! [ youtube video ]
_____________________
"Jobs fill your pockets, adventures fill your soul."

instagram: @andydilling
  1 archive
Apr 12 2020
avatar

 Guides 2
 Routes 267
 Photos 9,816
 Triplogs 402

62 male
 Joined Dec 02 2014
 Mesa, AZ
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)Phoenix, AZ
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Apr 12 2020
adilling • Triplogs 402
Hiking3.27 Miles 938 AEG
Hiking3.27 Miles   3 Hrs   31 Mns   1.09 mph
938 ft AEG      31 Mns Break
 
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
Route Scout Route Recorded  on Route Scout | Pop | Map | Popup | MapDEX
It's been 10 years, at least, since I have been up to Peak 2881. The real question is WHY did I wait so long. This entire area is really gorgeous. With all the rains, the entire hike was like walking in a garden. Lots of hedgehog blooms, some lupines, a few poppies and daisies, the brittlebush is still hanging on, some prickly pear starting up and I even saw a few yellow cholla blooms too. Lots and lots of grass too...too much grass...

Of course, the flowers are not the draw of this area, it's all about the views. With the crazy clouds I had my entire hike, it made it even more amazing.

I had a gps route from HikerDW loaded, so I followed the old "road" around the side and then hiked up to the little ridge. I explored as I moved and took a lot of pictures. I did not break any land speed records on this one. Too many things to see!

When I arrived at the base, I remember looking at a triplog from Cannondale Kid about skirting the base from the southside and moving over to the northside to climb up. Of course, I ignored that and took a look at the top of peak and estimated it wasn't "that bad". Well, it was pretty hairy going straight up. Lots of loose rock and way too many cholla cacti. But, I managed to climb up.

The top was really overgrown compared to my recollections of the last time I visited here. The top reminded me of Black Top Mesa. Lots of basalt rock everywhere and a ton of foliage. Everything that could bloom, was. The views were very nice. The clouds really added some wonderful texture and depth to the scenes. This peak offers some of the best views anywhere in the Goldfields. You can see Saguaro and Canyon lake, Four Peaks, Weavers Needle, Superstition Mountain, Malapais.....so beautiful for sure.

When it came time to go back, I did not opt for my "short cut" on the way down and wisely exited from the north and looked for the cairns. For the most part, the path is fairly clear and there are cairns leading you on. It takes you across the eastern side to the base of the southside. Definitely a better option for future visits. For the return, I opted to head straight to Apache Gap to see how that little ridge it rather than return the way I had come in via the wash. The hike down to the creek/road was nastier that I envisioned. That was slow going too. So, lessons learned.

All in all, a perfect hike - scenery, solitude and fresh air....just what I needed.
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instagram: @andydilling
 
Feb 08 2020
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 Guides 41
 Routes 1,626
 Photos 14,983
 Triplogs 2,760

69 male
 Joined Jan 20 2009
 Far NE Phoenix,
Willow - Massif - Salt - Dilemma - 2881 Loop, AZ 
Willow - Massif - Salt - Dilemma - 2881 Loop, AZ
 
Hiking avatar Feb 08 2020
The_Eagle • Triplogs 2,760
Hiking12.42 Miles 2,755 AEG
Hiking12.42 Miles   8 Hrs   4 Mns   1.81 mph
2,755 ft AEG   1 Hour   12 Mns Break14 LBS Pack
 
1st trip
Linked   linked  
Willow Creek to Saguaro Lake
Canyon Lake Massif - Peak 2276
Horns Of Dilemma
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)
Partners partners
BiFrost
joebartels
Route Scout Route Recorded  on Route Scout | Pop | Map | Popup | MapDEX
It was my week to come up with a hike. I did not have much time, so I went to an area on Route Editor I have not been to before, clicked to find all the routes in the area, and cobbled together a route that fit the bill. The majority of the route was from @hikerdw (thanks) with a couple of twists.

We started at a large pull out directly across from Little Four Peaks. From here we jumped into Willow Creek. The geology is quite stunning down here. There were some pools and drops we had to bypass, all quite easy.

We jumped out of Willow Canyon on our way over to the Canyon Lake Massif. This is an old Jeep road for awhile until reaching the saddle, where a well defined use trail is apparent. It's beginning is steep, but short lived. Stay on the high trail to get over to the east side of the Massif.
You get a great overlook of the Mormon Flat Dam on the way [ youtube video ] ,
but the payoff is the views of Canyon Lake. [ youtube video ]

Next up, is to try and get to Salt Creek at the end of Willow Creek. I suggested a shortcut from the planned track, trying out a feeder canyon into Willow Canyon. It worked out great and by the footprints in it, it's kind of popular. We got to within 75' or so of the Salt River. We stopped when we got to an area with 40' boulders and a 40' drop. It looks like you could potentially get down there, but we had other places to try out.

Back up Willow Creek until the turn off to the Horns of Dilemma. (I wonder where that name came from) In spots there is a good use trail and it peters out in others. We took lunch at the north base of "The Horns" in the shade.

Next stop was Peak 2881. It's a teaser with a few false summits. More Great 360 views. Getting up from the west, was far easier and safer than our retreat to the east. Steep, loose and slow.

This was another very nice sample of the Eastern Goldfields.
wildflower observationwildflower observationwildflower observationwildflower observationwildflower observation
Wildflowers Observation Isolated
A couple of Dichelostemma capitatum here and there

water 1 out of 5water less than maxwater less than maxwater less than max Willow Creek Pools to trickle Pools to trickle
Pools the entire distance
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Dave Barry 🦅
 
Feb 08 2020
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 Guides 264
 Routes 2,797
 Photos 14,494
 Triplogs 5,894

55 male
 Joined Nov 20 1996
 
Willow - Massif - Salt - Dilemma - 2881 Loop, AZ 
Willow - Massif - Salt - Dilemma - 2881 Loop, AZ
 
Hiking avatar Feb 08 2020
joebartels • Triplogs 5,894
Hiking12.44 Miles 2,906 AEG
Hiking12.44 Miles   8 Hrs   3 Mns   1.78 mph
2,906 ft AEG   1 Hour   4 Mns Break7 LBS Pack
 
1st trip
Linked   linked  
Willow Creek to Saguaro Lake
Canyon Lake Massif - Peak 2276
Horns Of Dilemma
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)
Partners partners
BiFrost
The_Eagle
Route Scout Route Recorded  on Route Scout | Pop | Map | Popup | MapDEX
Bruce elongated a route by @hikerdw with a side trip. We headed out with the wrestling fan Kacklepelli. To put it lightly it's a smorgasbord of views. From the makeshift trailhead we followed a powerline road that faded before passing over FR 1817. Then we were in the true origin of Willow Creek heading down.

Willow is never tough, never boring, good little workout. We were minutes from the sun the whole friggin way down. Guess who dressed lite...lol On the brightside(gasp), views popped often around the bends.

Canyon Lake Massif was the side trip. Chums has yet to chastise my naming of this little gem, borderline seal of approval! It's a treat at sunrise and sunset. Unfortunately an annoying glare in harsh light. Views down on Mormon Flat Dam stole the show in better light.

Next we took the lowest tributary of Willow to Willow proper and the final hurrah to the Salt River. Cool tickle once and appears to be very popular by an army of foot prints. A bunch of HAZ'r tracks on MapDEX too.

Up and out of Willow we scattered then I led to the horns of dilemma for lunch. Other than Black Glass Canyon I'm not a huge Goldfield fan. The Horns of Dilemma is a rock solid knockout punch. Intriguing in itself but listen kid, the views. The Four Peaks to the Rolls. A few hikes directly across the Salt I enjoy, notably for the debatable history.

After lunch Karl took the lead and it was like watching the old fern grow. Totally exaggerated because he dishes out the trash talk with the best of 'em. 2881 was on our route. There was mumble of side skirting the ascent until solid reasoning entered. Turned out to be a double false summit ascent. Easy peasy tiptoe around cholla otherwise.

Then I got a big ol' slice of humble pie descending the flipside. A steep descent down loose terrain through a never ending lightly scattered cholla mine field. The guys were extremely patient with my miserably slow three point crawl down. Got lucky without a single slip, which would have been an ugly mess.

We checked out a litchen plastered ridge then backtracked to FR 1817 then back to square one.

Synopsis
The net views are tough to beat. Thoroughly enjoyed. Highly recommend for the avid. Not itchin' to return for a few years. I would not bring a dog I loved on this hike. Any car can access.
 Culture
 Culture [ checklist ]
[ checklist ]  Benchmark
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Feb 08 2020
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 Guides 4
 Routes 491
 Photos 10,890
 Triplogs 1,257

55 male
 Joined Nov 20 2012
 Phoenix, AZ
Willow - Massif - Salt - Dilemma - 2881 Loop, AZ 
Willow - Massif - Salt - Dilemma - 2881 Loop, AZ
 
Hiking avatar Feb 08 2020
BiFrost • Triplogs 1,257
Hiking12.42 Miles 2,755 AEG
Hiking12.42 Miles   8 Hrs   4 Mns   1.81 mph
2,755 ft AEG   1 Hour   12 Mns Break
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   linked  
Willow Creek to Saguaro Lake
Canyon Lake Massif - Peak 2276
Horns Of Dilemma
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)
Partners partners
joebartels
The_Eagle
Bruce put together a nice loop in the part of Goldfields I had not hiked before. It was mostly off trail so some tough miles but made up for it with the views. We started by hiking over to scenic overlook of Canyon Lake Massif. Took a break there for a few minutes before heading down towards the Salt River below the dam. We didn’t make it all the way to Salt River because difficult terrain but it was close enough for us.

Then we hiked up Willow Creek drainage up to the Horns of Dilemma where we had lunch and had great views of both Canyon Lake and Salt River below the dam. After lunch we continued in a southerly direction on a ridgeline which provided the best views of the day and some pleasant hiking. We took a break on Peak 2881 which I believe was the high point for the day. The only tricky part was coming off the peaks south slope which was loose scree mixed with cholla just for added sport factor. After that a bit more ridgeline and a drainage back to the vehicle.
wildflower observationwildflower observationwildflower observationwildflower observationwildflower observation
Wildflowers Observation Isolated
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Dec 04 2016
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 Guides 44
 Routes 162
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 Triplogs 2,411

75 male
 Joined May 04 2004
 Mesa, AZ
Peak 2881 2460 Loop, AZ 
Peak 2881 2460 Loop, AZ
 
Hiking avatar Dec 04 2016
CannondaleKid • Triplogs 2,411
Hiking6.20 Miles 1,913 AEG
Hiking6.20 Miles
1,913 ft AEG      5 Mns Break15 LBS Pack
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   linked  
Peak 2881 Loop (Apache Gap)
Partners none no partners
I started from Apache Trail a short distance south of the Apache Gap pull-out and followed old Forest Road 1817 all the way up to the ridge southeast of Peak 2881. While following the road all the way makes for easy route-following, with the loose rock and slightly longer distance I don't recommend continuing on it from the saddle up to the ridge as the loose rock. Instead I'd recommend a beeline from the saddle to the end of the ridge at the SE base of Peak 2881, by steadily climbing while traversing the slope it goes pretty smoothly... if you're careful through the cholla fields.

Arriving at the end of the ridge SE of 2881 just keep an eye out for the rock cairns leading around to the right (north). Unfortunately with cairns scattered widely side-to-side there isn't one preferred route, so I'd recommend looking as far as you can see for the most prominent cairn and pick your own route toward it and repeat as required. Whether you want to take a trip up to the summit or not, it's a good idea to seek a higher route to avoid the drainages.

Although I generally followed the route in Ted Tenny's Goldfield Mountain Hikes book, I turned up toward the summit a bit sooner. At the summit I took a few photos and a panorama video before checking out the summit log. With a few entries over 10 years old, I was surprised my June 2013 entry was missing so I included it with my newest entry.
(It appears someone took the small notebook, tearing out and leaving only six pages.)
:?
From the summit I headed out along the ridge to the north. I didn't recall it being quite so rocky when I was here in 2013 so it was a bit slower going than I expected. I almost began my descent at the largest Saguaro along the ridge but not able to see far enough down, I kept going. (Looking at it from below later in the hike, it appeared to be a good alternate.)

Where the ridge made a jog to the right I turned left, following a series of game trails down to a saddle, where I stopped for a lunch break. Afterward, realizing I was well behind schedule I decided to skip Bagley Tank and cut directly SW over to FR 12 and continue on my original plan from there.

While following FR 12 I scanned the terrain of the ridge to Peak 2220 where I had planned next, I realized I'd be better off to skip it and return when wearing boots with a little tread anyway... I've been milking the last miles out of three pairs of boots, all with between 300 & 400 miles. I'd already had a few occasions on this hike where I lost grip due to the almost smooth tread so it's time for this pair to be relegated to trail hikes.

So... instead of turning west, I turned east along my planned to be the return route. I followed a relatively unused trail I had traced out using Route Manager's satellite view until it turned south. I probably bailed out on it a bit soon as I tried to take a more direct route up to the flat area just east of Peak 2460.

What first looked like a nice shortcut traversing the southeastern slope of Peak 2460 led me to a deep drainage which didn't look that bad until I dropped into it and began to climb the other side. The slope was not only not very inviting, it was downright nasty! It was very steep, with loose pea-gravel and/or powdery silt along with cholla plants just waiting grab on. It was like an ever-changing labyrinth, requiring anticipation as much as anything... planning a nice route between cholla plants didn't mean I could follow it. Whenever the ground gave way any plan was thrown out the window and it sometimes took contortions to avoid sliding into a cholla. I must have been limber today as I managed to avoid thorny encounters the whole hike.
:y:
Once out of the drainage, the rest of the return trip was easy enough as I just followed my track from 2013, with just a few adjustments due to vegetation growth over 3 years.

It turned out to be a fun hike with plenty of great views a few challenges along the way, the worst of which I would avoid next time.
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CannondaleKid
 
average hiking speed 1.61 mph
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