OverviewReiley Peak is the highest point in the Winchester Mountains. It is located in the Coronado National Forest about 16 miles northwest of Willcox. Although Reiley Peak can be seen from Interstate 10, it doesn't attract much attention. It just isn't high enough. The nearby and much higher Pinaleno and Chiracahua Mountains overshadow the many smaller mountains in this area. There are no trails or campgrounds in the Winchester Mountains, and access roads into the Winchesters are long and rough. With an elevation of 7,631', Reiley Peak ranks way down on the Arizona elevation list. But the new field of Prominence has made Reiley Peak a more important mountain. With a prominence of 2,311', it's just big enough to make an appearance on the Arizona Prominence Map.
Getting ThereFrom Willcox on I-10, drive west on the paved Fort Grant Road. The road makes a series of 90-degree turns. After about 21 miles, it turns to dirt, and you will reach the intersection of Forest Road 651. Turn left, and start driving west on Forest Road 651, also known as the Ash Creek Road. After about 14 miles, you will come to a curve in the road. This is the intersection of Ash Creek Road and Sunset Loop. Turn left here onto a primitive dirt road. This road enters the Coronado National Forest. Drive west about a mile or so, where you will see a road off to the left. This is Forest Road 659. Turn left, and drive south about 12 miles or so. This is a rough road. You will soon enter a large, flat, open area on a treeless mesa. Keep driving until you reach a large water tank right next to Brush Canyon. Park here. Mountain ConditionsContact the Coronado National Forest, Safford Ranger District, at 928-428-4150 for the latest information.
Forest Service Map: Coronado National Forest (Safford and Catalina Ranger Districts).
Topo Maps: Reiley Peak; The Mesas
CampingThere are no developed campgrounds in the Winchester Mountains. External Links Images
|
