Since we’re staying at the Saddle Mountain BLM area, Saddle Mountain is literally right in our backyard. No sense not climbing it!
Alltrails has the trail listed as 2.7mi roundtrip, 1558 feet of elevation, and rates it as hard.
After reading reviews I had visions of climbing hand-over-hand through some parts, and punishing the body a bit – unfortunately not so.
Although it really rates as a moderate hike, it’s definitely worth the effort. Beautiful views, and a fun trail to knock out. Just make sure to wear good boots, bring hiking poles, and lots of water!
GPX file for Garmin devices

Through the Saddle

Through the Saddle
Looking toward the southeast from the saddle.


Roadsize Hazards

Roadsize Hazards
Between the teddy bear cholla and the saguaro, you better mind your surroundings as you head up.


Saddle Mountain West Face

Saddle Mountain West Face
Pretty rotten rock on Saddle Mountain’s west face


Saddle Mountain Geodetic Marker 1

Saddle Mountain Geodetic Marker 1
Marker #1


Saddle Mountain Geodetic Marker No Number

Saddle Mountain Geodetic Marker No Number
No number


Beautiful Lines

Beautiful Lines
Morning light really highlights this line of mountains.


Saddle Mountain Selfie

Saddle Mountain Selfie
Of course I had to get a selfie up here!


Saddle Mountain Geodetic Marker 2

Saddle Mountain Geodetic Marker 2
Marker #2


Campers

Campers
The RV is parked way down there on one of those squiggly dirt roads on the left. Plenty of open space here at the Saddle Mountain BLM area for campers to enjoy some solitude.


Mountains in the Clouds

Mountains in the Clouds
A few mountains peeking above some low-lying clouds to the southeast.


Climb It

Climb It
Yes, this is the trail – as marked by the cairn in the middle. Luckly that white cliff is very stable rock, almost like poured concrete. Lots of footholds make this an easy up.


Trailhead

Trailhead
The trailhead is visible from the saddle, left 1/3 of the photo and almost centered vertically.


Trailhead

Trailhead
The trailhead is visible from the saddle, left 1/3 of the photo and almost centered vertically.


Upward View

Upward View
The view headed up towards the saddle. The rain and the low sun angle makes this side of the mountain very green.


All Done

All Done
It’s nice to look back at the mountain after you’ve knocked it out!


Saddle Mountain

Saddle Mountain
Google Earth visualization of the Saddle Mountain Trail track and elevation profile