Willow Peak, Bonanza Peak, Griffith Peak, Harris Mountain, Fletcher Peak, Three Sisters

17-Jul-02

By: Barbara Lilley

SPRING MOUNTAINS SOJOURN

Inspired by Bob Michael's writeups in the Sage and Andy Zdon's book, "Desert Summits", Gordon MacLeod and I spent a week or so climbing peaks in the Mt. Charleston area. Included were Willow Pk., Bonanza Pk., Griffith Pk., Harris Mtn., Fletcher Pk., Pk. 10,197' of The Sisters (alas, a hand level indicated that an adjacent 4th Class rocky outcropping was several feet higher) and Pk. 10,086'. The latter, climbed in lieu of Mt. McFarland which we did not. attempt, was.. accessed by the scenic southern Bonanza trail and provided great views. Campgrounds, especially those in Lee Canyon, were uncrowded aunng the week. Under clear blue skies, temperatures were comfortable even though it was in the 100's in Las Vegas.

The descriptions in Andy's book were basically correct with the exception of the approach to Willow Pk. Since Andy's visit, the Willow Creek campground has been removed and the road to Wheeler Pass from that side has deteriorated into a steep rocky road best suited for small jeeps and ATV's. Access from Pahrump appears to be much better. From Wheeler Pass one could also climb Wheeler BM, making for a nice weekend trip in late spring or early fall.

Longtime DPSers may remember Mick McNicholas; he now lives in Pahrump (Phone 775-751-8393). We enjoyed a visit with him after our climbs. Incidentally, the USFS is now located at 4701 N. Torrey Pines Dr., Las Vegas, NV 89130; Ph. 702-515-5400.