Location and surroundings
Geographically, Baker Butte is part of the North American Cordillera, descending through the Intermountain West, the Colorado Plateau, the Central Arizona Highlands, and finally the Mogollon Rim. Located in Coconino County, Arizona, within the United States, the peak ranks as the highest of 92 named peaks in the Mogollon Rim. The surrounding landscape is typical of the high terrain of the region, featuring elevated plateaus and rugged regional topography.
Neighbouring peaks
Baker Butte is surrounded by several nearby elevations and geographical features:
- Cinch Hook Butte, peak, 2,210 m, 5.7 km W
- Twentynine Mile Butte, peak, 2,210 m, 7.3 km NW
- Soldier Mesa, peak, 2,061 m, 12.0 km NW
- Strawberry Mountain, peak, 2,074 m, 12.8 km SW
- Cedar Mesa, peak, 1,713 m, 12.8 km S
- Calloway Butte, peak, 2,088 m, 12.9 km NW
- Brody Hills, peak, 1,706 m, 14.6 km SE
- Buckhead Mesa, peak, 1,639 m, 15.1 km SW
Compared to these surrounding summits, Baker Butte reaches a superior elevation of 2,456 metres, making it the dominant high point among its immediate neighbours.
The view from the summit
From the summit of Baker Butte, clear weather allows observers to spot several notable high points located within a 25 km radius. The highest peaks within this range include Buck Mountain at 2,312 m situated 24.1 km to the north, Myrtle Point at 2,265 m located 23.0 km to the east, and Hollingshead Mountain at 2,235 m standing 22.2 km to the north. Additional prominent points in sight are Banfield Mountain at 2,228 m lying 21.4 km to the north, Oak Hill at 2,196 m at a distance of 24.9 km to the north, and Bushy Knoll at 2,174 m located 21.7 km to the north.
The range
The mountain range of Mogollon Rim encompasses 92 named peaks, with Baker Butte holding the position of the highest peak within this specific range. The broader hierarchical range structure extends outward through the Central Arizona Highlands, the Colorado Plateau, the Intermountain West, and the North American Cordillera. The range itself serves as the high point of the immediate system, offering a defined upland zone across the landscape of Arizona.
Climate and weather
Climate figures are estimates derived from NASA POWER climate data covering the period from 2001 to 2020, with temperatures adjusted to the summit elevation. At the summit, the coldest month is December at about -1 °C, while the warmest month is July at about 19 °C. In the surrounding area, precipitation varies throughout the year, with the driest months recording about 5 mm to 15 mm and the wettest months reaching about 65 mm, accumulating to about 450 mm a year. Typical weather hazards in this region include sudden temperature drops at high elevations and seasonal convective storms during wetter periods.
Best time to visit
Based on temperature data, the months with a mean above freezing at the summit include February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, and November, making them generally more favourable for visits. Precipitation patterns show drier conditions during parts of the spring and early summer months, such as April, May, and June, which offer stable weather windows. Visitors should monitor local forecasts to align their trips with favourable seasonal conditions.
Nature and wildlife
The natural environment around Baker Butte features typical high-elevation vegetation of the Central Arizona Highlands, including mixed coniferous zones, pine woodlands, and native brushland adapted to semi-arid plateaus. Wildlife inhabiting this region generally comprises species typical of the Mogollon Rim ecosystem, such as mule deer, elk, coyotes, smaller mammals, and various native bird species accustomed to temperate mountain climates.
Guides and organised ascents
For visitors exploring elevated terrain of this scale, engaging a certified professional guide can enhance safety and navigation, particularly for those unfamiliar with regional topography. Qualified mountain guides typically hold recognised credentials such as IFMGA or UIAGM certification. Prospective climbers can look for professional services through national mountain guide associations or local tourist offices in the region. A guided ascent usually covers logistical planning, route finding, and safety management, with pricing dependent on the duration of the trip, group size, and required technical equipment.
Safety and preparation
Ascending a peak of 2,456 metres requires standard preparation for high-terrain hiking and variable weather conditions. Visitors should carry appropriate layers to cope with temperature shifts, sturdy footwear suited to rocky terrain, emergency supplies, and adequate navigation tools. It is essential to monitor weather forecasts closely for potential wind and precipitation hazards common in high-altitude environments.
Interesting facts
Baker Butte stands at an elevation of 2,456 metres in Coconino County, Arizona. It is officially ranked as the highest of 92 named peaks in the Mogollon Rim. The peak is situated within the multi-tiered North American Cordillera system and serves as a prominent geographic landmark in the Central Arizona Highlands.
FAQ
What is the elevation of Baker Butte? The elevation of Baker Butte is 2,456 metres.
Where is Baker Butte located? It is located in the United States, within the state of Arizona and Coconino County.
What mountain range does Baker Butte belong to? It belongs to the Mogollon Rim within the Central Arizona Highlands, Colorado Plateau, Intermountain West, and North American Cordillera.
What are the nearest peaks to Baker Butte? The nearest peaks include Cinch Hook Butte at 5.7 km W and Twentynine Mile Butte at 7.3 km NW.
How does Baker Butte rank in its range? It is the highest of 92 named peaks in the Mogollon Rim.
Is there water on the way to Baker Butte? There are no natural water sources specifically named along the routes, so visitors must carry adequate water—typically 1.5 to 3 litres per person for a day trip—depending on seasonal temperatures and the length of the excursion.