Ridge 8579' (2615m), E of Stirling (NV)

pics by Harlan W.S.
June 10, 2010

I noticed this peak SE of Mount Stirling some time ago; rougher, with a long thin ridge, and higher than Stirling, it has always intrigued me. We took advantage of a relatively cool day for a hike. The road, at least to the corral and a bit farther, is surprisingly good; my 2003 Subaru Outback could probably make most of the trip. Even if you get farther in, the hike is a little rough; some brush, about 3500’ trailless elevation gain, and 7 to 10 miles RT. Timber Spring is often trampled to mud by feral horses, so don’t depend on it for water. Nothing need be harder than class 2; but the ridge is ragged, and you may find yourself staying on the very highest rocks to avoid talus and brush, with some exposure.

We parked just after the one “crux” on the road—a narrow washout where one had to cut R around a juniper.	A zoom-out view of the relationship to Stirling.	View S from the gravel road. The drainage at right contains Timber Springs. The ridge just left of the drainage can be followed to the 2575 m (8448’) peak.
The road, view N.	View NNE, as we climb the ridge.
View N.	This was about the last time that I saw CP behind me. After we hit the 2575m peak, he was far faster.	CP speeds off S. There are lots of these rocky “saw blade” edges; if you have confidence and balance, it is easier to walk along these edges rather than slog through the talus.
View N from 2615m peak at SE end of ridge. Stirling is at L; the next peak R of Stirling is 2575m.	Charleston in the distance.	View E.
View back at Stirling from 2615m.	Arrogance!	He’s off!
View NNW along ridge	Scenic Pahrump.
View NNW to 2575m.	View E to Wheeler.	A final view of Stirling as I am about to leave 2575m and head down the steep talus to theTimber Spring drainage.