Northshore Peak Route

Overview

Northshore Peak is a short, scenic desert scramble with big-payoff views over Lake Mead and the red-rock Bowl of Fire. Expect mostly Class 2 travel with a brief Class 3 step on the ridge. The rock is largely solid limestone, and you may spot fossils along the summit ridge. Total distance for the standard out-and-back is about 2.6 miles round trip with roughly 900–1,000 feet of gain.

Route Options

• Standard East Ridge (most common): From the Northshore Summit parking area on SR‑167, cross the road, gain the east ridge, and follow intermittent cairns to the summit. It’s mainly Class 2 with a short, easy Class 3 step that some hikers bypass just below the crest. Descend the same way for the most straightforward day.
• Spicier Loop with Sub‑peaks: Strong scramblers sometimes tag Northshore Peak – Southwest and Northshore Peak – South before continuing to the main summit. Expect sustained Class 2/3 scrambling with a couple of exposed Class 3 moves on solid rock and severe drops on either side in places. It’s rewarding but committing and not appropriate for most dogs.

Best Time to Hike

Plan this one for the cooler months—roughly October through April. There’s no shade or water, so start early and skip hot, windy, or stormy days. If you poke into washes, remember desert storms can create flash‑flood conditions; ridges are usually safer and more direct.

What You’ll See

From the summit, the panorama takes in Lake Mead, the Bowl of Fire, and the Muddy Mountains. The colorful badlands and limestone ribs make for photogenic ridgelines. Keep an eye on your feet—limestone is grippy but sharp.

Navigation and Safety

Cairns help but are not continuous; light route‑finding is part of the fun. Stay ridge‑proper to keep difficulty to Class 2/low 3. Avoid dropping into side washes where dry falls can cliff you out. The West Ridge is a legitimate 3rd‑class climb from below and is a poor choice for a casual descent.

Logistics

Park at the Northshore Summit parking lot on SR‑167 (mile 20.6). A pit toilet is at the parking area. Standard park entry fees apply. Dogs are allowed on leash, but most won’t manage the exposed scrambling on the loop; the standard route’s short Class 3 step often requires a human assist or a bypass. If you want a bonus leg‑stretcher, there’s a short signed hike across the road that pairs well with the main summit.