Place · 3.5 mi away
Overview
Corkscrew Peak is a striking summit in the Grapevine Mountains, named for its spiraling ridge and prized for its big, lonely views. This is a rugged, off-trail-style hike on a well-used use path—rewarding if you like a little route-finding and a lot of payoff without the crowds.
Route at a Glance
- Distance and gain: roughly 7.4–8 miles round trip with about 3,100–3,360 feet of ascent.
- Difficulty: moderate to strenuous. Expect steep grades, loose gravel, and some hands-needed Class 2 moves getting out of a canyon.
- Route character: no maintained trail. A cairned use path leads from a roadside start on Daylight Pass Road (NV-374). You’ll walk a broad wash for ~2 miles, enter a short canyon with vertical walls, then scramble out and follow the exposed, corkscrew ridge to the summit.
What You’ll See
From the summit, the views sprawl across Death Valley with Telescope Peak prominent; on especially clear days distant Sierra Nevada summits have been noted. Just below the top sits a natural rock window—a favorite photo stop—and there’s a summit register to sign.
Best Time to Visit
Do this one only in cool weather, roughly November through April. Summer heat here is no joke. Start early for cooler temps and to snag the limited roadside parking. Wind can be sharp on the exposed ridge in winter.
Logistics & Amenities
This is a primitive roadside start—think small shoulder/pullout and a use trail, not a developed trailhead. There are no restrooms, no water, no tables, and no services at the start or along the route. Bring everything you need, including plenty of water. Standard park entry fees apply.
Safety & Strategy
Navigation matters. Watch for cairns and stick to the researched ridge line—dropping into tempting side canyons can dead-end at impassable walls. The descent is steep and loose, so take your time. Sun exposure is total; plan layers for wind up high.
Who It’s For
Fit hikers comfortable with steep, loose terrain and basic off-trail navigation will love this one for the solitude, distinctive ridge, and huge views. Strong parties sometimes pair it with nearby objectives on separate days, conditions permitting.
Pros
- Panoramic summit views with a memorable rock window near the top
- Quieter, backcountry feel compared to marquee park hikes
Cons
- No official trail and real route-finding required
- Steep, loose footing with no shade or water
- Very limited roadside parking
Tips
- Hike in the cool season only and start early.
- Carry ample water; there is none on the route.
- Follow the cairned ridge route and avoid side canyons that dead-end.
- Park at the small roadside pullout and don’t block traffic.
- Trekking poles help on the steep, loose descent; expect wind up high.
