Topo and GPS tracks for today's out and back from near Harris Spring Road off of Hwy 157. 8mi and 3k of elevation gain today.

The first couple miles were on a spur ATV road leading south from Harris Spring Road. The road dipped down into a wash a short distance south, so I parked and hoofed it the remainder of the way. This added a couple miles to the day- but it was better than getting stuck in a wash.

Nice view of the snow capped Spring Mountains to the north (Griffeth, Charelston, Mummy L to R).

Headed south on the ATV road. The Joshua Trees gradually gave way to Junipers as the elevation increased. I think I could have gotten the Outback to the end of the road but my paint job would have suffered.

La Madre Mountain Wilderness sign back here in the middle of nowhere. Your tax dollars at work.

La Madre visible off in the distance about 1 1/2 miles away. Was a bit concerned about the snow visible on the ridge.

The road eventually dead ended and it was offtrail through the junipers.

The snow appeared to just be present on the north facing slopes and my La Madre ascent ridge had a southern exposure, so I was good.

Bit of a dip down into a wash then 2000ft of uphill. The highpoint on the horizon is the first of several false summits along the ridgeline.