Road trip guide: Conquering McFadden Peak

Road trip guide: Conquering McFadden Peak

Usa, north-america

Length

2.09 km

Elevation

2,177 m

Difficulty

extreme

Best Season

Year-round

Alright, adventure seekers, let's talk about McFadden Peak in Arizona's Gila County! This hidden gem sits high in the Sierra Ancha mountains, boasting an elevation of 7,142 feet.

Forget pavement, because the journey to the top is all about that rugged, unpaved life on McFadden Peck Road/Forest Road 561. Trust me, it's worth it. The summit is home to a lookout tower and a handy parking area, so you can soak in those panoramic views.

Now, let's get real about the climb. Starting from the Globe-Young Highway, it's a short but intense 1.3-mile ascent. Don't let the short distance fool you, though. You'll gain 790 feet in elevation, making for an average gradient of 11.53%. It's a leg burner! Oh, and FYI, this peak is named after a William McFadden.

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Road Details

Country
Usa
Continent
north-america
Length
2.09 km
Max Elevation
2,177 m
Difficulty
extreme

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