MAPS: USGS 7 1/2'; Picacho Peak
Auto Club; Imperial County
MILEAGE: 288 miles paved. 14 miles excellent graded.
DRIVING: Winterhaven, Cal, take Business Route B, (the old road thru town) to the east end to find County Road S-24 and follow signs to "Picacho State Park". Drive East then North under the railroad bridge, continue North. about 4 miles on paved Picacho Rd. (do NOT turn right with S-24 at Ross rd.) Just before crossing the All American Canal the road becomes Excellent graded, continue North about 14 miles to parking at wide spot on road at Little Picacho Wash, this will be about 1 mile past the big signs for Picacho Mine. Take a bearing to the Peak, if you are at the correct location it will be 250 degrees.
HIKE: Walk SW 1/4 mile then take the (go West) right fork to remain in Little Picacho Wash, in about 2 miles you will be due south and 1/4 mile from the peak. Walking NW toward the saddle to left of peak you will find a good use trail that will take you all the way to where the rock climbing begins. A written description of the route from here would be impossible, however beware there is: (1) a 3 foot 'Jump Across' that most climbers will want a belay due to the exposure. (2) a 5th class move on 10 foot face which may be by-passed by using the 'ladder', NOTE: Using the ladder is artificial aid, therefore 6th class. (3) at the false summit block a 20 foot 4th class move, requiring belay due to exposure. (4) Rapell from false summit. (5) Also returning from the peak there is 15 foot overhanging cliff that may be climbed 5th class or you may prusik up a rope or use a rope ladder or whatever. NOTE, All climbers must be able to rappel, climb short exposed pitches and should carry one locking carabiner, a figure 8, and a seat harness.
GAIN: 1500 ft. ROUNDTRIP: 6 miles & 7-8 hours.
