About
The jagged peaks of Cerro Tetakawi are absolutely unmistakable, punching up out of the desert and the Sea of Cortez.It's the central feature of San Carlos, the mountain that has been the focal point for sailors, artists and hikers for as long as anyone can remember. The two summits are shaped like 'goat horns' (that's what Tetakawi means in Yaqui) and are full of both natural splendor and local legend.
Also known as Mount Tetakawi, the landmark is more than just a dramatic feature in the landscape. It's a sacred mountain to the indigenous Yaqui people and features in many of their stories and traditions. It's become a symbol of San Carlos itself and appears in hundreds of photos, paintings, and travel guides. Adventurers from all over the world come to climb it, with routes ranging from very steep, rocky scrambles to more accessible paths that lead to fantastic viewpoints.
The hike to the summit is no walk in the park, but those who do make it are rewarded with some of the best views in all of Sonora. From the summit, you have views that stretch for miles across the desert, the stunning blue of the Sea of Cortez, and on a clear day you can actually see the mountains of Baja California. It's an absolutely fantastic part of any San Carlos adventure, and you'll either be there for the challenge, the views, or both.
Cerro Tetakawi: Fun Facts & Cool Features
Mount Tetakawi has two peaks at approximately 656ft (200m) and 1,200ft (365m), respectively. It's a very popular spot for sunrise and sunset hikes, the light at those times being absolutely superb, with the desert and sea turning a glorious golden color and providing some of the best photo opportunities in the world. Wildflowers and desert plants are in full bloom along the lower slopes in spring, and you can quite often see hawks, lizards, and on occasion a bighorn sheep.
As mentioned, the trek is arduous. AllTrails ranks it as "hard," based upon the 1,033 feet of elevation in only 1.4 miles! Additionally, expect loose rock, so wear hiking boots suitable for this type of hiking.
At one point, hikers were required to hire guides for the trek. In this publication, it seems that the law has been rescinded. However, hiring a guide is not only wise for keeping you safe and on the proper trail, but they also offer insight into Cerro Tetakawi's history,
One of the mountain's real highlights is its geology—Tetakawi is composed of very old volcanic rock which has been eroded over the centuries by wind and water. There are local legends about the mountain having spiritual powers, and many people do, in fact, leave small offerings or just take a moment to sit and reflect at the top. The summit is marked by a wooden cross, which was put up by local climbers, and is a place where small groups will often congregate to celebrate getting to the top.
Climbers and hikers are by no means the only people who are drawn to Tetakawi. It's also a very popular subject for artists and photographers who love the ever-changing colors and the sheer drama of the mountain's profile. There are a number of coves, tide pools, and great viewpoints around the base of the mountain where you can quite easily just sit and take in the view after your hike.
A climb up Mount Tetakawi is a rite of passage for anyone who goes to San Carlos. There's just something about it that makes it a must-do for the outdoor types, photographers, and adventure-seekers.
Local Tips
- Plan to start at 5:00 a.m. to avoid the heat.
- Consider a guide suggested by What's Up San Carlos.
- Take plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat.
- Let someone know your hiking plans and don't hike alone if at all possible.
