Overview

This very strenuous, 4.2-mile hike lulls hikers into a false sense of tranquility as it wanders into the Death Valley Wilderness Area at nearly-level grade for the first mile or so, then it surprises when it turns and runs straight up the hillside to a saddle, lulls hikers back into a false sense of tranquility as it wanders along another nearly-level section, tires you out on another steep section, and then kicks your rear on the final steep climb to the summit (9,064 ft). There are some switchbacks near the summit, but they seem more like a rude joke after the long steep trail. The views from many points along the trail and the summit are worth the effort, and the overview of Death Valley is better than most.

For details of the hike, see the Wildrose Peak Trail webpage.