Mine Peak

Mine Peak

By Joel Hawk, December 24, 2012

We arrived at sunrise with the promise of a beautiful day.  The temperature was crisp, but not cold.  It is always a spectacular sight to watch the day get started in the desert.  The colors start to come to life and you begin to feel like a part of it all.

For reference, this is where we parked.  Planning for a few dirt roads today, we brought my jeep.

Almost ready to get moving.

 This looks like part of the residue from the mining operations years ago. 

 Our trusty little jeep.  Might as well go in comfort you know?

The barrel catcus was in great shape and ready to show us it's wonder.  Hope to come back in the Spring when it is flowering season.

 We saw a long pole at the far end of the peak and knew that was our destination.  Both the register and the benchmark were located at the pole.  The benchmark is dated 1958.

 Motor recording his visit at the top.  The benchmark is actually attached to a pipe vs. to a boulder.  First time I've seen this.

 Looking out over the badlands.  It's nice now, but wouldn't want to be here in July/August.

 A very interesting jet contrail.  Not sure how or why it stayed formed like this for so long.

 This is a small bunker we found along the dirt road on the way back (we went straight up when we started and missed it).  Not sure of the purpose but our imagination tells us this is where they stored the explosives.

 An ocotillo cactus in the early blooming stages.

This is a quick fun little hike and can be combined with any number of other challenges along the Imperial Highway.  Being a part of the 100 Peaks of San Diego, we had to climb it you know.

Be safe, enjoy living and appreciate our lands.   ~ Joel

Directions and numbers:

I-8 to Ocotillo and North along Imperial Highway.  Turn right onto the dirt road at the Dolomite Mine sign. 

Work your way up the dirt road to the old mine in the picture above.  About a mile or so round trip if you park at the mine.  Easy cross country/scramble.

32° 49' 54'' N; 116° 8' 4'' W
32.831794, -116.134447 (Dec Deg)
581011E 3632972N Zone 11 (UTM)