Apache Peak (Whetstone Mountains)
Apache Peak, at 7,714 feet (2,351 m), is the highest peak in the Whetstone Mountains in Cochise County, Arizona. The summit, located in the Coronado National Forest, is a popular local hiking destination. It is located near the Kartchner Caverns State Park, the city of Benson, Interstate 10, and Arizona State Route 90.
| Apache Peak | |
|---|---|
 Apache Peak | |
| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 7,714 ft (2,351 m) NAVD 88[1] |
| Prominence | 2,886 ft (880 m) [1] |
| Coordinates | 31°49′29″N 110°25′47″W [2] |
| Geography | |
  Apache Peak | |
| Location | Cochise County, Arizona, U.S. |
| Parent range | Whetstone Mountains |
| Topo map | USGS Apache Peak |
Hiking up Apache Peak
The summit of Apache Peak can be gained by a couple of different trails, which both involve moderately strenuous hikes with loose rocks, dense shrub, grass, cactus, succulents, and some small trees. Trails include the east side French Joe Canyon route and the west side Empire Ranch route.[3]
Hiking requires approximately 4,160 feet (1,268 m) in elevation gain and ~12.6 miles (20.3 km) distance round-trip.[4] Those attempting to hike to the summit of Apache Peak should bring at bare minimum 3 liters of water, especially in the summer months. The humidity in winter is very low (< 15%) so bring more water than you expect even when the temperatures are not high. In winter snow storms are common. In summer fierce lightning storms and flash floods hit the peaks so do not hike in summer when thunderstorms are present.
References
- "Apache Peak, Arizona". Peakbagger.com. Retrieved 2015-10-07.
- "Apache Peak". Geographic Names Information System. United States Geological Survey. Retrieved 2015-10-07.
- "Apache Peak Hike". summitpost.org. Retrieved 2015-10-07.
- "Surgent Apache Peak Hike". surgent.net. Retrieved 2015-10-07.