Enchanted Tower

Within Thompson Canyon in the Datil Mountains, the Enchanted Tower is a wall of steep volcanic tuff riddled with pockets, and a well-known sport climbing destination.

What to Do

Climbers come for the pockets: more than 130 routes are spread across over a dozen walls and formations, with much of the climbing in the 5.10 to 5.13 range. The tower itself holds some of the area’s classic lines, ranging from 5.11b to 5.13a. Non-climbers can hike in to see the formation views toward Madre Mountain. Bring your own gear and know the routes before you go. There’s no on-site services, water, or cell signal.

How Much Time to Spend

This is a half-day-minimum destination once you factor in the drive and approach. You may want to plan for a full day if you intend to climb for a while. If you’re just hiking in to see the tower and take photos, two to three hours round trip is realistic.

Getting There

From the US 60/NM 12 junction in Datil, drive west about 9 miles on US 60 to Forest Road 6, then north 2.8 miles to Forest Road 59. Continue toward Davenport Lookout, then drop down Thompson Canyon Road roughly 4.5 miles to the climbing area. The whole approach takes 45 minutes to an hour and crosses a short stretch of private land, so stay on the road and respect any posted gates. High clearance is strongly recommended for Thompson Canyon’s rough sections. A shorter hiking approach starts from a pullout on FR 6 (about 2 miles, under 500 feet of gain, 45 minutes to an hour on foot) if you’d rather walk in than drive the rough road. The historic southern approach through a private ranch is closed now.

Enchanted Tower is a true destination climb, make sure to come prepared (both gear wise and physically)!