Exercise NORTHERN PEAK was a 38 Signal Regiment, Level 3 Adventure Training expedition to Arizona, USA, over the period 15 – 28 Oct 13. The aim of the exercise was to summit Arizona’s Ultra Prominent Peaks (each with a topographic prominence of 1,500 metres or more), culminating in a summit of Humphreys Peak at 3,852 metres. The exercise concept was developed by WO2 Chris Powell who made several visits to the United States prior to the commencement of the expedition.
The ascended peaks (Miller, Chiricahua, Humphreys and Mount Lemmon) are steeped in Native American history and culture, as well as forming part of a unique ecosystem known as the Madrean Sky Islands. Isolated from one another by expansive desert valleys, these ranges receive sufficient rainfall to support a wide diversity of flora and fauna. Unable to migrate between ranges due to the intervening desert, many species have evolved in comparative isolation.
The expedition departed Heathrow for Tucson International Airport. After a quick turnaround, the group moved to the Sonora Desert Museum, where an extremely valuable ecology familiarisation was conducted. In order to mitigate risk, all indigenous species of flora and fauna were viewed by the group. The first trekking day involved a road move into the midst of the Huachuca Mountains. The move to Reef campsite (an old mining town) involved a precarious drive to a height of 2195 metres. Once the campsite was established the trekking party, led by the Expedition Leader Captain Heather Lawrie, departed for Miller Peak (2,886 metres). Due to the proximity of the Mexican border, the Huachuca Mountains are heavily utilised as a transit route for illegal immigrants and the narcotics trade. During the trek back to the campsite the group were “buzzed” by a US Border Patrol helicopter. Unfortunately, while answering the call of nature, Sgt Cat Duncan inadvertently revealed the second full moon of the evening to the air crew! After some time they must have been satisfied that the group posed no threat and moved on to a different area.
At first light the expedition made a short road move to the next objective. The Chiricahua National Monument is an area of outstanding natural beauty and the Bonita Canyon campsite is located at the heart of the area. On arrival there was a noticeable increase in vigour and the camp was rapidly established. The effort paid off and a hike through Echo Canyon was conducted, during which the group navigated its way through the thousands of “hoodoos” that the area is synonymous with. Due to its protected status, wildlife is abundant and the group had a close encounter with a black bear on their return to the campsite. At dawn the following day the group started the ascent of Chiricahua Peak (2,975 metres). The mountain range is renowned for having the cleanest air in the United States and the views into the Mexican state of Sonora are breathtaking. Unfortunately, the trail in parts was extremely rough and it was evident that a considerable fire had recently swept through the area.
The expedition moved north to the Grand Canyon National Park. A confirmatory planning and navigation exercise was conducted along the Grandview Trail, and an overnight camping permit was obtained for the Horseshoe Mesa. The area contains remnants of previous mining operations and as a result water sources are contaminated, so enough water had to be carried into the canyon to comfortably last the duration of the trek. Fortunately, the trail is well developed and the group made good progress in both directions.
The ascent to Humphreys Peak (3,852 metres) started at the Arizona Snow Bowl, and provided the most direct route through the Coconino National Forest. After numerous switchbacks it ascends through exposed volcanic rock on to a ridge with a number of false summits, and there were also considerable patches of ice and snow. The peak itself provides exceptional views and the Grand Canyon North Rim can be seen in the distance. There was a noticeable drop in temperature at the top and after a short stop the group began the final descent of the expedition.
Exercise NORTHERN PEAK was a great success, the memories and experiences the group have taken away from the expedition are invaluable. Activities involving controlled exposure to risk in an austere and demanding environment have developed skills vital to operational capability.
WO2 Powell, Yeoman of Signals
