Twin Point

The Arizona Strip is one of the most magnificent stretches of country in the world. It is home to the Grand Canyon, truly one of the world’s most amazing natural wonders. Millions have visited the more prominent and accessible overlooks to gaze over the downward-reaching spectacle that truly is a grand canyon. However there are a few overlooks that considerably less people have ventured out to see. These lesser known locations are not less known because they are lacking in beauty or sensation. They are lesser known due only to the fact of accessibility and convenience. The Twin Point, located at the west end of the northern rim, is just one of these hidden overlooks.

 The Twin Point overlook is less known no doubt due to the obscure and remote nature of its location. This back country ramble is no venture for the faint hearted and ill prepared. The reward is great but so needs to be the preparation.

When I made my trip out to the Twin Point it was the middle of February, colder than a desert boy should have to endure, and the roads were about as wet and muddy as one could imagine.  If I could only issue one warning to people who plan to venture out into the Arizona Strip country it would be to not go if the roads are wet or have the possibility of being wet. The only saving grace we had on our trip was that if we left early in the mornings the road was still frozen enough that you could travel on the mud. However the roads were frozen so that introduced a whole other set of problems that an icy road will. If you plan to visit the Twin Point make sure you check the weather and current conditions of the Strip. Do not head out into this country if it’s wet or there is a storm on the horizon. Honestly the weather and elements is not something to be taken lightly in this country. A good map and the ability to interpret it are also essential.

The trip out to Twin Points is just under 100 miles from I-15. The road is long, rough and often hard to follow, however if you do make it to the end of the trail the reward it great. From the Twin Points overlook you can see across and see the Grand Canyon Skywalk, north-east up the Grand Canyon or west down towards Lake Mead. From this point you truly feel on top of the world. 

Along the way there are also many sights to see both scenic and historic. One of note is a marker dedicating the spot where three of Wesley’s men were last known to be alive after departing their venture in the grand Canyon, in fear of their lives, were killed by Indians. Another great spot is Oak Grove. Oak Grove in the late 1800’s was a dairy farm and cattle ranch. The history behind this spot is interesting and full of great stories. 

The trek out to Twin Points is rough, long and potentially hazardous, however the view is spectacular. I plan to revisit this spot as soon as I possibly can make it back out. Until then here are a few shots from my previous back country ramble.

Click Here for up to-date weather information


View Larger Map

 

Whitney Pockets (Deep Desert Reds)

Whitney Pockets is a first class destination for any outdoor enthusiast. It is easily accessible and offers a variety of activities for almost any adventurer. It offers not only breathtaking scenery, with magnificent rock formations and a wide variety of desert colors, but also has a deep cultural and historical back-story.

Whitney Pockets sits at the base of the Virgin Range, or Bunkerville Mountain as known by the locals. Whitney Pockets can be found 24 winding miles off I-15 near Mesquite Nevada. The road is oiled all the way to the red rocks but is rough and poorly maintained, if maintained at all. It is not problem, in my opinion, for a car or low clearance vehicle to make the trip out to Whitney Pockets.




Once you reach the deep desert red rocks you can hike, take photographs, camp, picnic, explore the many caves, visit the dam built by Luke Whitney in 1886 later refurbished by the CCC, or one of the many other outdoor activities. Whitney Pockets is also the gateway to many other great back country ramblings.

Vicinity Destinations

Luke Whitney Petroglyphs, Keyhole Canyon, Red Bluff Springs, Devils Throat, Gold Butte Headquarters, Hells Kitchen, Scanlon Dugway, Grand Wash Bay, Cedar Basin

Click Here to see my interactive Trip Map


Click Here to see directions from I-15 to Whitney Pockets in Google Maps

Click Here for up to-date weather information