McFadden Horse Mountain - Sierra Ancha Wilderness

Last year I did a three day point-to-point hike out here, which I would have been more than happy to do again if it were not for the summer fires. Fortunately, the northern most section of this wilderness has been spared from most of the fires and is a good option for a last minute, one night trip.

I did not upload many photos, but if you are curious, checkout my last trip out this way, as it is very similar geographically speaking.

The Drive:
If you are coming from Phoenix, you can either take the US-60 east to Claypool and then AZ 188 west to AZ 288 north, or you can take the AZ 87 north and then AZ 188 east to AZ 288 north. This entire section is friendly for vehicles of all shapes and sizes. Then we will take FR 410 to FR 235, which requires a little ground clearance but should be easy in any truck or SUV.

Cienga Trailhead has little room to park, so if enough people sign up, it may be a wise idea to consolidate vehicles in the spacious Reynolds Trailhead just before the turn for FR 410.

The Hike:
We will depart at 09:00 on 01/10 from Cienga Trailhead heading northwest onto Cienga Spring Trail #145. This two-mile mostly flat section goes around McFadden Horse Mountain along an old mining road, zigzagging between a hot exposed overlook of the valley and cool humid pocket in the mountain; there are several accessible mine audits along the trail. We then will turn east onto McFadden Horse Trail #146 and climb up McFadden Horse Mountain, where the first half mile is steep and exposed in an old burn scar but then flattens out under a tall pine canopy. The unused trail disappears under a thick coat of pine needles, but a large stone pillar to follow can always be seen on the horizon.

After another half mile, we will make camp near the top of the mountain. When I was here last, there was no established campsite, so we will have to build a fire ring ourselves. There should be plenty of trees for all you hammock sleepers. There is no reliable water up here except a small trickle and pool at the trailhead, so you will have to pack it all.

I would encourage everyone to complete the rest of the hike along the ridge up to Elephant Rock. We should have plenty of extra time and it is a spectacular view.

Summary: fairly easy 5 miles, 2140 ft up and 750 ft down, one-way

https://hikearizona.com/decoder.php?ZTN=889
https://hikearizona.com/decoder.php?ZTN=15803

Disclaimer:
Backpacking and hiking have inherit risks, but most can be largely mitigated with good judgement and preparation. By joining this trip, you are expected to bring both. I am by no means a professional hiking guide; I will make a best effort to ensure the safety and enjoyment of the trip, but I assume no liability for participants nor any guarantees on events of the trip.