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USA :: Prescott :: Granite Mountain

GPS Track

Granite Basin looking SE near the End of Lookout Trail

December 21, 2023

Granite Mountain is the Highest Peak in Prescott area and Wilderness basin west of Prescott Valley contains well developed and extensive network of Hiking trails.  Area is managed by USDA Forest Service and entry fee is required but America The Beautiful Pass is accepted.  Access is via Iron Springs Road;  turn right at Granite Basin Road 15-20min from downtown Prescott and drive to the End.  As usual the case with  overmanaged rec areas there are gates that close around sunset;  1-way exit usually remains open, but no guarantees.  Granite Mountain trail starts at Playa Parking;  it is worth checking out Lake viewpoint below (1st pic in the Gallery).

First part follows wide canyon to Blair Pass where Little Granite Mtn / Granite Lake trail splits off through the gate.  Main elevation gain is ahead;  switchbacks are well graded, but this part is entirely in the open offering no shade and likely quite hot in summer months.  After cresting the saddle, trail contours some lovely terrain before ascending final part to the Lookout.   Unsigned summit trail junction is some ~20min before end of Trail #261:  Waypoint "3 - Summit Junction", GPS Track download top of Page.  Remainder of the Hike is very scenic, ending on open slopes with impressive views over Granite Wilderness and distant central Arizona Plateau.  Rock bluff above the Lookout can probably be scrambled, but it appears quite stiff and not really worth the effort.  Return the same way.

I have not climbed Granite Mountain,  but here is what to expect.  From the junction bits of trail continue in general direction of the peak for some 15min, then disappears in maze of chaparral bush and granite boulders.  Some flags aid the navigation to summit block which is then ascended via gully system on the west side.  This extension is considerably more involved, mainly from micro-terrain routefinding skills -  see here for more details. Number of technical rock climbing routes are also very popular. 

Gallery