Spencer Peak

March 20, 2017

2501m

Tucson / Santa Catalina Mountains, AZ

Spencer Peak is probably the least interesting objective I’ve ascended in the peak-bagging slam along Mt. Lemmon Highway. It’s rounded, forested and the bump is right by the road means it’s only a mere 15-min stroll to the summit, although there isn’t an official trail heading up.

Spencer Peak ascent route. GPX DL

This is a classic why-bother objective and even as a peak-bagger I probably would give it a miss if I decide again, but since I went for it I have to write a trip report. The off-trail ascent started by following some cut-blocks but soon I just went for my own way. There’s some desert brambles type of plants to be aware but anything “bad” is very short-living. It seemed like no time when I realized I had already reached the highest point.

The parking lot and my Toyota Corolla

Initially I followed this cut-block

As much as the off-trail travel went

There really isn’t much to see

As far as the views looking south towards the Tucson valley

Me on the summit of Spencer Peak

Another picture of me on the summit of Spencer Peak.

The descent was uneventful and soon enough it’s time to focus on Mt. Lemmon, highest in this group.