Yellowman/Gooseberry Mesa

Total Miles
2.5

Elevation

1,567.94 ft

Duration

1 Hours

Technical Rating

2

Easy

Best Time

Summer, Spring, Fall

Trail Overview

Yellowman is a unique pictograph that when coupled with the nearby petroglyphs would allow you to come up with some great stories. This track goes through private land and there is a gate that should be closed. This route can be very challenging after rain or snow. The final approximately 0.5 miles are off-camber and washed out, making it tricky to navigate if wet. As this doesn't happen much in the desert, this is a ride to put off for better conditions if you hit it on a bad day-especially since the climb to the attraction is very challenging and would be somewhat dangerous if the trail were wet/muddy. You can't see any of the items from the trail. You must climb/scramble up a very steep dirt/rock trail that is very challenging. The climb is approximately 150 yards. The tree hiding the petroglyphs and Yellowman can be easily seen from the parking area.

Photos of Yellowman/Gooseberry Mesa

Yellowman/Gooseberry Mesa
Yellowman/Gooseberry Mesa

Difficulty

This is a single lane farm road. Much of it two-track that is not maintained. While it is short, it can be very challenging in inclement conditions. The clay ground turns into a slick, slimy gel that is an adventure. Add the washouts and other obstacles, and this can be a challenge. In normal conditions, it can be navigated by most 4WD and higher clearance 2WD vehicles.

Technical Rating

2

Access Description

The pictographs/petroglyphs are actually hidden by some large rocks up the hill to the right as you get to the end of the trail. There is a fence line going up the hill. The trail follows the fence and then takes a slight left near the top. The short, steep climb is very challenging, over rocks covered with marbly sand. This is a unique feature so the climb is rewarded with some fabulous artifacts and views. This climb is short but strenuous so be sure to dress appropriately for the terrain and obstacles.

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