Silver Peak #280

Singletrack that climbs steadily from Cave Creek Road up to Silver Peak. The trail starts of mellow for the first mile with switchbacks that gently meander up the slope. They become rocky and technical near the top, and this continues as the trail contours around to the north side of the mountain. The best views are found around the top of the switchbacks including Cave Creek Canyon, The Fingers, and Mount Sceloporus.

As you get to the north side the trail continues to climb steadily but also becomes more difficult with rock water bars and several series of tight switchbacks. There is a nice shaded rest / view spot at 6,600ft (3.25 miles in). You reach the tree line at around 7,200ft as you approach the final series of switchbacks to the top.

While some maps show a trail going right to Silver Peak there is only a twisty, overgrown informal trail and the peak is actually indistinct and lacking views. Instead, head west up to the concrete remains of the Silver Peak lookout tower which burned down in 1992. This spot has better 360* views.

This trail is heavily used by hikers so be courteous.