Magruder Mountain is the highest peak in the area, from north of Death Valley to about the Silver Peak Range, and east of the White Mountains to almost all the way across Nevada. It has some nice prominence, and is easy to climb. Desert peak baggers looking for more unlisted summits comprise the few that climb this remote summit. The view south into Death Valley National Park amply rewards those who will climb this peak. It is a big rounded hill, all class 1 hiking, but this does not detract from its worthiness.

Getting There

Drive NV 266 to the vicinity of Lida Summit (7,403'). There are no services after Big Pine, CA, on CA 168, to the west, and U.S. 95, south of Goldfield, NV, to the east. A dirt road that runs parallel to the Nevada highway, here, offers hidden parking.

Take the dirt track that heads up and south. The peak is obvious. After a quarter mile or so, this track runs out. Head up cross-country, bearing generally south, through pinyon pine forests. Gain some views quickly, then sight the big rounded mass that forms the peak. Open sage slopes are hiked before reaching the barren summit.

More directions are to be found in Andy Zdon's Desert Summits.

Red Tape

No permits, passes, or fees.

When To Climb

This peak is climbed year round. It could get hot in summer, and snow in winter, but not enough to deter most desert peak baggers.

Camping

Free, primitive camping ops abound in this area. There is no water on the peak, aside from any residual snow in winter. The climb is short enough to skip any day-to-day segmenting of the hike.

Mountain Conditions

Contact the Bureau of Land Management Nevada office at 775-861-6500 for conditions. The nearby Death Valley National Park may have information about the higher peaks of the park. Magruder Mountain will be of similar temperatures and accessibility (due to snowfall).