Arc Dome was on my to-do list last November, but too much snow and limited time got in the way. This time, I was determined to tackle it and add another ultra-prominent peak to my list. After finally hiking Arc Dome, I can say it’s a fantastic trek with lots of open space and stunning views. The wide landscapes and the feeling of solitude made the hike memorable, proving it was worth every effort.
At the trailhead, I unexpectedly ran into two other peakbaggers, Iris Ma and Tom Grundy. Even though we didn’t know each other, it was amusing to find out we shared the same hobby. They had already hiked to the summit the day before and were now packing up, getting ready to leave. It’s always interesting to see how small the world can feel, even in the vastness of the great outdoors.
I start my hike in the cool shade of the forest, enjoying the peaceful surroundings. As I go on, the trail leads me to the bald slopes and a vast plateau, where the path resembles an old road, making it easy to walk. I climb up to the North Arc Dome summit plateau, then descend two hundred meters to a saddle between North Arc Dome and Arc Dome. From the saddle, there’s another three hundred fifty meter ascent to the summit.
The summit is marked with a benchmark, offering remote views all around. After savoring a traditional apple, I start down the same path. At the first fork, I turn right, aiming for a loop. The trail is pleasant, with a few short re-ascents of about fifty meters. It then becomes a wide, gradual path with stunning valley views. Lower down, there are a few short, wet sections, but they’re manageable.
Arc Dome was my last Nevada ultra, leaving no more Nevada ultras for me to climb. Whether that’s good or bad, I can’t say, but it means adjusting my goals. To keep climbing peaks in Nevada (and I definitely want to), I’ll need to lower my prominence criteria to around 1000 meters. With that decision made, I get back in the car and start driving toward my next adventure: Mount San Antonio, near Los Angeles.
