Elephant Dome

Elephant Dome, Mendoza Canyon

Description 

Elephant Dome is the huge granite dome on the north side of the wash as you approach the canyon. This dome contains a number of mixed routes including The Elephants Trunk (5.7), B-Cubed (5.10b), Elephantiasis (5.10c), and Crater Genetics (5.11b R). The rock quality covers the spectrum from rotten to excellent. Grass and cactus are local residents on many ledges on the dome. Scenic views of the saguaro cactus-covered desert wilderness below add to this backcountry climbing experience. Although some of the routes can be rapped to descend the dome, there is a descent scramble/rappel in the south-facing gully between Elephant Dome and Right Dome to its east (see B Cubed descent description).

Getting There 

Follow the “Getting There” description for Mendoza Canyon and the access instructions to arrive at the small reservoir. Walk across the dam and follow path marked by cairns. The trail will branch with the left branch going to Table Dome and the right branch goes to Elephant dome. The approach paths can be difficult to follow so keep on the lookout for the cairns. At the fork, take the right branch which will cross the canyon’s wash through a small and thick bamboo forest. Continue on trail scrambling up toward the dome. The trail reaches the dome between Elephantiasis and B Cubed.