Tabeau Peak

Tabeau Peak is a semi-obscure mountain in the very southwest corner of Utah near the shared borders of Arizona and Nevada. A double-summited mountain with a wide saddle in between, this beautiful peak is climbed infrequently. When I climbed it in mid-January of 2016, my journal entry was the 20th since 2008. The standard northeast ridge route is a fun romp up the mountain with a sting in its tail. The last 100 feet up a vertical chimney is an exciting way to reach the summit. There is also a slot canyon with a nice arch on the northeast side of the saddle, according to Bo Beck. This makes for a more enjoyable descent route, Beck said.

Tabeau Peak is blessed with a very easy approach. From Interstate 15 exit 8 in Beaver Dam, Az., turn left onto Highway 91 and follow this for approximately 9.5 miles to the Mojave Desert Joshua Tree rd. (clearly signed at the time of this writing.) 

From St. George, take Sunset Blvd (continuing as it becomes Highway 91) for a little over 25 miles to Mojave Desert Joshua Tree rd.

Once on the Mojave Desert Joshua Tree rd., drive approximately 2 miles on this gravel road. No 4WD needed. There are occasional graded pullouts alongside the road, find an appropriate spot to park. There is a larger space to park near the Bulldog Knolls, but this adds some distance to the climb.

Northeast Ridge Route Here

There would appear to be a fairly straightforward route up the western side of the mountain, but as of this writing no information is available. I plan on going back and investigating

None. Just park and go

Summer would be the least appealing time to attempt a climb up this peak. A climber could get broiled at that time. When I climbed it in January, it was cool and windy but very comfortable. Spring and Fall would also be great times to climb it.

According to the BLM's website: "Dispersed camping is allowed on federal lands, although vehicles must stay on designated roads within the NCA north of the Backway. Also take note that the Backway travels through the Shivwits Indian Reservation on its northern end and public access to these lands is not permitted."

Link to the BLM page for the Mojave Desert Joshua Tree Scenic Backway

Link to the BLM page for the Beaver Dam Wash National Conservation Area

Weather page for Beaver Dam, Az.