Antsell Rock

Antsell Rock is a dramatic formation on the Desert Divide that practically begs adventurers to explore it. Authors Jerry Shad and David Harris call it the “Jewel of the Desert Divide”, and the name is appropriate. It was named in 1898 by a surveyor for a man he encountered making a painting of the formation, once again reminding us that it did not take a lot to get a peak named after you in those days.

Route 1 follows the Spitler Peak trail to reach the backbone of the divide, then continues north on the PCT. The route then leaves the PCT and ascends a very steep loose gully with high risk of rock fall to reach the base of the summit block where many choose to end their hike. The route finishes as a third class scramble to the top of the summit block. Holds are good but there is some exposure in parts, so this is not for the inexperienced.
Route 2 starts from Southwell Peak, from whichever direction you reached it, and departs the PCT at the saddle between South and Antsell cross country to join Route 1. This portion of the trail was and is known as the Sam Fink Trail, built almost single-handedly by Sierra Club leader Sam Fink, which was later incorporated into the PCT when the latter was created. We have named a nearby peak in his honor, and you can learn more about him and his trail there.

The most common variation is to ascend Antsell via Route 1 and descend via Route 2 to avoid descending the loose gully. One can also hike Antsell by starting from the Yokoji Zen Center in Apple Valley. This is not an official route because it crosses Zen Center property. The route ascends to the saddle between Apache and Antsell. It is extremely brushy unless recently trimmed, and route finding is difficult. Because of the poor trail conditions it is usually better to take Route 1 instead.

Antell is one of four HPS peaks that require third class climbing. Because of the risk of rock fall a climbing helmet is recommended, and required on official outings.