On Saturday, November 30, I climbed Pusch Peak on the western edge of the Santa Catalina Mountains of Southern Arizona. This peak is closed for bighorn sheep lambing season from January 1 through April 30. I needed to visit it soon if at all this winter season.

That morning I drove to the Linda Vista Trailhead. I was fortunate to find a parking spot. From the trailhead I followed the Linda Vista Trail east, then turned to follow the unmaintained Pusch Peak Trail higher towards the peak’s summit.

This trail is quite steep and rocky. In some spots it requires easy rock scrambling. As I climbed I met a few other parties on this trail – this is a popular hike.

As expected, the views from the Pusch Peak summit were a nice reward for my hard work. I recognized several peaks I have shared with others in the Santa Catalina Mountains and many more to the south, west, and north.

Tucson, Marana, and Oro Valley lay beneath me. The weather was nice and I had the summit to myself.

The descent required a lot of attention. I put my trekking poles away so I could use my hands where needed. I was careful with my foot placement on rocks and loose soil. Lower, I occasionally paused to enjoy the afternoon views and to rehydrate in the warm sunshine.

The descent was tedious, but it went quite well, except for one clumsy moment just before finishing. My attention was distracted and I caught my toe and fell on my hand, chest and knee. I returned to my Jeep with some minor scrapes and bruises but with the satisfaction of another successful summit visit in Southern Arizona.