Palomino Mountain - Superstition Mountains

I hiked 10.3 miles round trip out to Palomino Mountain in the Superstitions. Most of the route was along the Dutchman Trail #104. At the junction of Black Mesa Trail, and 4 miles later, I left the trail and headed to Palomino Mountain. It took me 7.5 hours. The summit is 2,907 feet, and the top of Palomino Mountain forms three vertical fins or spines that run north-south.

I've become addicted to hiking and climbing mountains. It makes me feel good, and most importantly it nearly eliminates my OCD and depression. When I stand upon a summit after a difficult ascent I have that thrill and sense of accomplishment. I just had 25 years of sobriety, and hiking beats alcohol by a long shot.

The Dutchman Trail

Followed the dry creek bed south from the Dutchman Trail.

This is called The Fortress that I passed through.

Looking back at my route.

Looking back at my route.

Aylor's Arch

Aylor's Arch

Looking back at my route.

Me on the summit.

On the mountain.

The high point that I climbed up.

Aylor's Arch

Aylor's Arch

Aylor's Arch

I walked out on the spine of rock.

I walked out on the spine of rock.

I stopped here. It's too dangerous to cross the arch.

My feet.

West Boulder Canyon

West Boulder Canyon

West Boulder Canyon

Weaver's Needle

West Boulder Canyon

Coming down the mountain.

Back at the Fortress.

Looking back at my route.

Heading back to the Dutchman Trail.

Palomino Mountain

Weaver's Needle from the Dutchman Trail.