Fh1041

Trail Overview

This trail begins off FH1001 and winds up a series of switchbacks along the backside of McKinney Mountain. The route quickly becomes a steep shelf road with sustained grades. As you climb, you'll pass above McKinney Dam. Shortly after the dam, the trail drops into a wash via a steep, off-camber descent where careful wheel placement is required. Once in the wash, you'll encounter another rock obstacle. It's not overly steep, but proper line choice is important. Long wheelbase vehicles should be cautious of potential hitch damage. After clearing both obstacles, you'll travel through a rocky wash with 6 to 12-inch rocks. At the end of the wash, turn left and climb a long, steep, rocky hill. 4WD is strongly recommended for this section. At the top of the climb, the trail levels out onto a plateau where you'll be greeted by a stunning wall of rock formations. Near the end of this formation stand two to three prominent column-like rock structures overlooking McKinney Mountain. From there, the trail continues winding through the mountains and across a field of prickly pear cactus. You'll soon reach the edge of the Fishhooks Wilderness boundary. The route curves in a series of S-turns before arriving at a corral tank and eventually ending in a wash. Expect beautiful views throughout the entire route, along with engaging obstacles at both the bottom of the hill after the dam and within the wash. It's a great trail for a lunch stop, sunset ride, or even an early dinner outing.

Photos of Fh1041

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Difficulty

This trail features a steep grade and sections of shelf road. Two obstacles are located within the wash, including one at the entrance and another at the exit, which may require careful tire placement and increased driver awareness.

History

The dam is likely a small stock/water retention dam linked to historical ranching and cattle management in the rugged terrain surrounding Fishhooks. These features helped early settlers and ranchers manage scarce desert water resources long before wilderness protection was established. While Fishhooks Wilderness itself was designated in 1990 and managed by the Bureau of Land Management to preserve its natural character, features like McKinney Dam lie on adjacent lands that historically were used for grazing and livestock support.

Technical Rating

Fh1041 can be accessed by the following ride types:

• High-Clearance 4x4
• SUV
• SxS (60")
• ATV (50")
• Dirt Bike