Mount Kimball is a major but attainable summit in the Santa Catalina range for a motivated hiker. The most popular route to Mount Kimball’s summit is an out-and-back trail via Finger Rock Canyon. To reach this peak with an elevation of 7257 feet, you will hike over 9 miles and gain over 4,000 feet of elevation.
This route starts at the Richard McKee Finger Rock Trailhead. From there, you will follow signs for Finger Rock Trail #42. The first mile of this trail is gradually inclining and you will be hiking through a wash at times. The trail hikes amongst tall Saguaros and various other cacti.
After this, you will start a much steeper trek up the canyon. During this section, the trail is rocky from time to time. As you hike further up this trail you begin to have great views of Finger Rock and the canyon that is named after it. You will also notice the flora around you changing. In just under 2 miles you will gain around 3,300 feet of elevation and reach a junction.
At this point, you will follow Pima Canyon Trail #62. Once on this trail it is about a half-mile and less than 400 feet of elevation gain to the summit. There is still one junction to watch out for. Just before the peak you will take the Mount Kimball Spur Trail.
The summit of Mount Kimball is wooded, but hiking slightly past the peak will lead you to a stunning viewpoint. A vast expanse of the Sonoran Desert and many peaks of the Santa Catalina are seen from a rocky cliffside.
While this hike is strenuous, the views are worth the struggle. The hike to Mount Kimball can get very hot during the day. There also may not be a reliable water source, so be sure to bring plenty of water. This trail is also subject to closures from January 1 to April 30 for bighorn sheep lambing season.
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