Mount Adney

Distance: 8 km
Elevation Gain: 630 m (2067 ft)
Time: 5.5 hours

Date Added: November 17, 2010
Last Update: November 17, 2010

Mount Adney is a challenging and rewarding hike in the Blackstone Range in the Tombstone Area. This hiking route is to one of Mt. Adney's rocky peaks with a magnificient 360 degree view.

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Driving Directions

The trailhead is located approximately 88.1 km from the beginning of the Dempster Highway. This is about 16.5 km north of the Tombstone Territorial Campground. Either park off to the side of the highway, or turn off on to the nearest gravel patch.

Trail Description

From the parking area, orient yourself in the direction of the southern ridge of Mt. Adney (on your left). This route provides a more gradual and easier ascent than the more direct but steep northwest face. The southern face also has the added benefit of faster snow melt in the spring.

Once you have your bearings, pick your way across the open tussock plain for the first 1.5 km. The terrain here is uneven and boggy in places so watch your step and try to stay dry. There is also a small creek crossing within 350 m.

Once at the base of the mountain you will begin a gradual ascent up the southern ridge. There are some steep sections but the terrain is fairly stable with grassy, lichen encrusted slopes. The rocky outcrops and grassy hills almost feel like they transport you to the Scottish Highlands, all you need is some mist or fog!

For the final ascent, the route becomes even steeper and rockier, and you will have to pick your way up through the rocky outcrops and spires to reach the very top. A head for heights is needed and there's a bit of scrambling involved so watch for loose rocks. Stay to your left as you ascend to the top in order to avoid the steepest sections.

The hard work is rewarded once you're sitting on top of the peak, as it feels like you have conquered a real mountain. Enjoy the views and return the same way down.

Note: Alternately, instead of climbing to the peak suggested in this description, you can opt for a longer hike by continuing along the southern ridge to the true summit of Mt. Adney (1920 m/6299 ft).

Have these directions changed? We invite you to let us know.