Manchester Mountain

May 1963

By: Harry Melts

Mt. Manchester (3598'), is the highpoint in the Dead Mts., located northwest of Needles. The hike started 6.7 miles north of Arrowhead Junction from the paved road (US 95). There are several desert tracks in the area, remains of an era when the military used the region. The peak is clearly visible from the starting point. The hiking distance is 10 miles, mostly on a gradually rising desert floor, and later up a canyon and ridge to the summit, class 1. A long stretch of the Colorado River is viewed from the top. Highlight of the trip was the number of colored lizard, sunbathing so sleepily that close-up photos were easily obtained. Total elevation gain was 1800 feet.