Pyramid Peak CA (Death Valley) 6703'

Pics by Harlan W.S.
Oct 15, 2006

From Las Vegas, drive W on sr 160 through Pahrump. Sr 160 turns N at the W end of Pahrump; after it turns N, take Bell Vista Rd W to Death Valley Junction (intersections are well-signed). Turn R (N) at the Junction, then shortly turn L on sr 190. Take 190 for 11.4 miles W and park. Head N to the saddle of your choice, then W to summit. There is a fairly obvious use trail, once you hit the ridge.

Net elevation gain is ~3700', but accumulated gain is ~4000'. Distance is reported as 11 miles; I got ~10 on the GPS, perhaps because of my "shortcut".

This route would be deadly hot between April and October.

GPS trace. I think I ascended one saddle too far west, as the route was loose with no sign of prior human travel.	View N from the road, about 11.4 miles W on 190, from Death Valley Junction, ~3025'.	I went N to Saddle at ~4550', over loose white quartzite. Didn't find Wingding's hat, but did find this barrel, plus an old root beer can.

Cave, big enough for one, near crest.	View W over limestone crags.	View WSW to Telescope Peak, with fresh dusting of snow.

View W near limestone crags. Stay S (left) of pinnacles on rough use trail.	Previous entry in from 6 months before. I wonder why there aren't more visitors in the summer?

Nevada Bob Greer!	This space for rent	USGS adjusts elevation again, throwing me off balance. Self-portrait.

View ~N, Amargosa crop circles at right.	View E on descent.	Charleston Peak to ENE.

Eagle Peak (in valley at left), Nopah Range and Kingston in distance.		Approaching scenic Pahrump.