On a beautiful day at the Peralta Trailhead 12 hikers started the hike about 8:20 AM. After a short ⅓ mile or so up the Peralta Trail we cut left to begin the 800 ft. plus bush whacking ascent to get to the top of the Dacite cliffs. A few places on the way up were challenging, but once on top, everyone enjoyed the unique views of the area South. We could see the Peralta Road, Goldmine parking area, Carney parking, the Don’s Amphitheater below us, and a great distance.

After a couple viewpoints we began bushwhacking towards the Robber’s Roost area. There were three decent hills and rocks to climb up and over. Along the way we passed by a man-made water collection pit and had more great views. Before we descended to Robber’s Roost some hikers had to go surfing on a ‘wave rock’. We had lunch and picture taking in Robber’s Roost. Next began the trek over to Fremont saddle. From there we headed to the lone pine, but before getting there we took a turn to descend into the Upper Barks Canyon.

Although there are rock cairns along the trail it was easy to get slightly off trail. Eventually we intersected the Bluff Springs Trail, which divides Upper and Lower Barks. After a short break at the intersection, I decided to cut the hike short and forego the Lower Barks Canyon due to the time (2 PM). Many wanted to take Bluff Springs back at that time anyway, to be able to get home for the Super Bowl. I apologize to those few that wanted to continue down Lower barks. We all took the Bluff Springs Trail back to the Peralta Trailhead finishing at 3 PM. We did gather around and shared some refreshments in the parking area before heading home.

The final stats were 7.34 miles and 2,499 ft. of elevation gain.

There was so much to see and enjoy that a lot of excellent pictures were taken, and too many to insert into this report. I am including links from some hikers that capture the hike scenes quite well.

Thank you to all that hiked and were patient with me.