It is one of the toughest hikes in Arizona and definitely not advisable for the newbies. We tried this hike in April 2017 but was overwhelmed by the treacherous snowy condition since the trail was totally lost under the snow. We made it to the peak second time in July 2017 and again in August 2019.
Until the saddle point, the trail is easy to navigate without snows. After the saddle point, the hike up is very hard and very steep with a couple of false peaks to confuse the hikers. The elevation sickness is something that will be a challenge even to the experienced hikers.
This hike is a very hard hike and June, July, August and September will be safer months to hike. Please stay watchful and remember to come back to the treeline before 2 pm and the monsoon up on the summit will be very harsh since there is no place to take cover. Lightning strikes will be plenty. There were many fatal lighting incidents reported from the peak. Please stay safe while hiking on the trail.
We always appreciate and admire the fellow hikers when on this trail. They never fail to take a momentary pause to motivate you and rejuvenate with their enthusiasm and positive attitude.
This hike is a very hard hike and June, July, August and September will be safer months to hike. Please stay watchful and remember to come back to the treeline before 2 pm and the monsoon up on the summit will be very harsh since there is no place to take cover. Lightning strikes will be plenty. There were many fatal lighting incidents reported from the peak. Please stay safe while hiking on the trail.
Happy Hiking & Exploring! 😊
Hike Attempt #1:
Hike Attempt #2:
Hike Attempt #3