OverviewThe Sierra Estrella, or Star Mountains, are located in south-central Arizona. This small but rugged desert mountain range forms the impressive southwestern skyline of the Phoenix metro area. The Sierra Estrellas rise sharply from the desert floor, and tower over 3,000' above the Gila Valley. The distinctive pointed summit of the Sierra Estrella highpoint is perhaps the most noticeable natural feature of the Phoenix skyline. However, despite their close proximity to the Phoenix metro area, it appears that relatively few people venture out into these mountains. Much of the Sierra Estrellas are located on the Gila Indian Reservation, but significant areas of the range are located in the BLM’s Sierra Estrella Wilderness, and Maricopa County’s Sierra Estrella Regional Park. The unnamed highpoint of the Sierra Estrellas, which is sometimes referred to as Sierra Estrella Peak, rises to an elevation of 4,512', and is listed at #21 on the Arizona Prominence List.
Getting ThereThe approach to Sierra Estrella Peak is from the west via the Rainbow Valley. This route utilizes public roads and avoids the indian reservation on the east side of the range. There is more than one route to reach the parking spot. Your choice of roads will depend on whether you’re coming in from the north or south. Either way, you will most likely encounter sandy roads that may require 4WD, and will always require high clearance. The parking area approach road is labeled as Ocotillo Road on various maps, but I never saw any street signs during our drive in from the south. Your goal is to reach this point at the western base of the mountains. You will park here to begin your climb. The elevation here is about 1,400'.
Mountain ConditionsThe public access areas of the Sierra Estrella Mountains are administered by the BLM and Maricopa County. Their websites are attached below.
CampingCamping is available at Estrella Mountain Regional Park.
External LinksSierra Estrella Wilderness
Estrella Mountains Picture
Sierra Estrella Wilderness
Estrella Mountain Regional Park
Arizona Prominence Map
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