Finger Rock, visible from most of Tucson, is aptly named. This 100' tall free standing tower points skyward, just below and east of Prominent Point on Pusch Ridge. It is perhaps the most recognizable feature from the Tucson valley.
The silhouette of Finger Rock alone is enough to entice most climbers, but only those willing to tackle the daunting approach. An attempt on Finger Rock will put all but the fastest parties in for a long day of very hard work.
Parties who successfully summit will be either highly rewarded or permanently traumatized. The exposure atop Finger Rock is extreme. The teetering flake that caps the pinnacle adds to the excitement.
Getting There
Approach starts from Finger Rock Trailhead at the north end of Alvernon Way.
Follow Finger Rock trail northward for just under three miles. After crossing some steep slabs near the edge of the cliff, the trail flattens out onto a large, open promontory above the canyon bottom. Here the trail turns eastward.
Do not follow the trail as it turns east toward Mt. Kimball. Instead hike northward, down a steep path and across the wash. A faint route marked by cairns (hopefully) will contour back uphill and around the back side of Finger Rock Guard, the large formation immediately east of Finger Rock. As you approach the formations proper, the trail splits, up and left to the Guard, and down and right to the Finger.
Take the right trail ten minutes until it dead ends at the northwest face of Finger Rock.
Allow at least three hours for the approach, and a little less for the deproach. This hike is difficult, steep, and loose in many places. Plan on a full day of hard work.
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