Woolsey Peak : Climbing, Hiking & Mountaineering : SummitPost

Overview

Woolsey Peak is located in the Gila Bend Mountains and the Woolsey Peak Wilderness Area. This mountain rises prominently about 15 miles northwest of Gila Bend, and is one of the highest mountains in southwest Arizona. Woolsey Peak is the remnant of an extinct volcano, and large black lava rock boulders cover the area. Woolsey Peak is the dominant landmark in the area, but with an elevation of 3,171’, it’s not going to attract many climbers. However, Woolsey Peak is a classic desert peak, with sheer cliffs, steep rock scree slopes, and large boulders. When you’re out here, it’s hard to believe that you’re only a short distance away from the Phoenix metro area. Woolsey Peak is located on BLM land. With a prominence of 2,073’, Woolsey Peak is just big enough to make an appearance on the Arizona Prominence Map.

Getting There

From Old US 80 a few miles north of Gillespie Dam, turn west onto the paved Agua Caliente Road. The road is marked by a street sign. Drive west about 0.6 miles, then turn right onto a dirt road, which is still Agua Caliente Road. The paved road goes straight ahead a short distance to the Gila Compressor Station. Drive about 0.2 miles on Agua Caliente Road, then turn left onto an unmarked dirt road. The road worsens here. Drive southwest on this road towards Woolsey Peak. There are a few turnoffs, but stay on the main road. You’ll pass by Buckeye Copper Well along the way. After about 6.5 miles, you’ll reach a gate and a fenceline pretty much due north of Woolsey Peak. There is a primitive road off to the left here that follows the fenceline straight for Woolsey Peak. Park here.