Climb Mount Holmes
7 Miles
3000 Feet
Camping, Photography, Hiking, Rock Climbing
Expert
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Out-and-Back
The climb to the top of Mount Holmes is steep - but rewards dedicated hikers with a unique and scenic desert view. Avoid climbing in the winter, or if there has recently been a storm as the rocks get slippery. No permits are required, but please follow all leave-no-trace and wilderness protocol.
To get up the mountain, you will pass by a sandstone wash (similar to a slot canyon), then ascend a sandstone ridge which turns into granite higher up. Route finding along the ridge is fairly easy. The entire route to the summit can be kept at only class 2, although you will probably run into some short sections of class 3 depending on your route. Nonetheless, Mount Holmes is a fun hike with excellent scenery.
Camping is recommended at Star Springs Campground (running water and toilets). You can also camp in underdeveloped locations off the road, since the surrounding land is BLM. To get to Star Spring Campground, drive south for 17 miles on highway 276 from highway 95. Take a right and drive almost 4 miles to the campground.
Photos: Ken Lund and Bryant Olsen
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations.
