BETA PHOTO: Bridge Mountain from the loop road showing some po...
Description
This is the peak between Icebox and Pine Creek Canyons. The feature named on the topo map is not the highest point, 6761'. This makes it one of the highest points in Red Rocks (although not the highest).
Bridge Mountain is quite prominent from certain locations on the loop road. The summit itself is a bald fin of rock somewhat like Half Dome, but it doesn't have one side missing. From most points on the loop road it is the major domelike summit at the top of Icebox Canyon.
Getting There
Reaching Bridge Mountain from Icebox Canyon itself is complicated and rugged, I have not done it. A few routes are rumored high up on the Pine Creek side, perhaps adventurous climbers will add these.
There is a primitive trail up Bridge Mountain from the northwest. This makes a fun hike but it takes a full day, plus you need a 4WD to get to the trailhead. You drive the loop road past Willow Springs, then take the Rocky Gap Road (4WD) to the trailhead. Consult the visitor center or the book "Hiking Las Vegas" by Branch Whitney for more info on this trail.
The trail is pretty wild near the end, and travels mostly over bare rock - it is not so easy to follow. At one point it ascends a rib of rock that head on you will swear is at least 5.8. But remarkably it's only 3rd class.
Print a Mini-Guide - Includes Routes!
RSS Feed
