Pinto Mountain Trail

Route Description for Pinto Mountain Trail

The first few miles of the Pinto Mountain Trail are deceiving, as they are relatively flat and not representative of what is to come. The Pinto Mountain Trail is a physically demanding route that is both long and incredibly steep at some points. The Pinto Mountain Trail should only be attempted by experienced hikers whose skills and equipment are sufficient enough for the challenge.

Having left your vehicle at the side of the road, make your way northwest across the flat terrain, and towards the mountains in the foreground. Soon, you will cross a number of streams that may or may not have water in them. Having crossed the streams, the elevation will slowly start to incline as you approach Pinto Mountain.

Making your way alongside the base of the mountain, you will follow a stream north towards a saddle on the western side of the mountain. Having reached the saddle, you will begin to follow it up towards the summit. Here, the terrain becomes incredibly steep, so take your time and watch your footing as an untimely fall here could be dangerous. After some difficult climbing, you will eventually reach the peak of Pinto Mountain where panoramic views of the surrounding area can be enjoyed.

After enjoying the sublime views, the section of the circuit that will return you to your waiting vehicle is located on the southern saddle of the mountain. Follow this saddle south down the steep terrain, until it plateaus at the base of the mountain. From here, continue south towards Pinto Basin Road.