Big Horn looked like a sombrero. A lower band of cliffs acts as the brim, with a plateau surrounding the center tower. I followed the lower band of cliffs east until I found a class 2 gully to ascend. There was some minor brush but it was more helpful as holds than a hindrance. The middle plateau was covered in dense cholla. Despite careful steps, I picked up some needles both directions. I left the plateau onto a subtle ledge system with route finding the rest of the way. One ledge might not connect with a higher one and the route then was straight up. The slope was loose with lots of gravel. It was slow work.
Protected cabin ruins. The only sign was no trespassing.
Ascent gully
Cholla moat protecting the main tower
I finally arrived at the base of the crux: 40' of class 3 on good rock. I expected to find a register, but it might have been hidden below a rock I didn't move. No benchmark either. I reveled in the views for 15 minutes before heading down. I down climbed the crux facing the rock. When I got back to the plateau, I decided to try to descend the south gully since it was more direct. I had enough energy to climb back up if needed. When I reached the band lip, I was cliffed out. However, I saw a chute only 100' away that looked like it would work. I climbed up a little to get to the chute. I was relieved it went class 3 with some brush. The rest of the descent was easy as I merged into my approach path. It took me an hour longer than I expected (6.5 hours round trip, 7.8 miles). Big Horn was a great hike and fun challenge.
Base of the crux
Descending the main south gully
Back at the canal