McManus Mountain Hike

The feel

This is a route, not a trail, through completely open, treeless tundra and alpine terrain. You start by crossing the Steese Highway to the north and following the marked Pinnell Mountain Trail over rickety boardwalks and tussocked ground, and the tors come in just under 1 mile.

From there you climb tundra slopes to the summit, and on a clear day the road may be in view for nearly the entire hike. The route is quite steep in spots and may involve a little scrambling over steep talus near the top. In late June and July there are wildflowers everywhere.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 7.5 miles total, with 2215 ft of gain. Off trail after the first stretch of the Pinnell Mountain Trail, steep in spots, with possible scrambling over steep talus near the top.

Time

About 4.5 hours out and back.

Parking

A large turnout and parking area at mile 85.5 on the Steese Highway.

Fees and passes

No parking fee.

Hazards

Loose footing on steep terrain; unpredictable weather with afternoon thunderstorms and possible snow in summer; bugs and mosquitoes from June through August.

Bathrooms and water

Water is scarce, so do not count on pumping or filtering any along the way.

Season and access

Snow may persist at higher elevations into late spring and should typically be melted by mid to late June.

Mingo says

Wait for the snow to clear in the summer months. The end of August and September are much less buggy than June through August.

Before you go

• Carry all the water you need; do not plan on filtering any along the route.
• Bring navigation skills, because there is no trail to the summit.
• Pack for sudden weather, including afternoon thunderstorms and summer snow.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.