We decided to given Santiago Peak a try.

I've summited this peak before but out of Holy Jim Trail which is about 16.5 mi round trip.  Holy Jim road to the parking area has been closed for a couple of years now and hasn't reopened.

So we decided to use Maple Springs trailhead.  After doing some light research realized is was going to be a 24 mi round trip attempt which none of us 3 were up for that.  So we decided to use a high clearance vehicle to reach an area on the main divide road called 4 points.

Once you pass the Maple Springs trailhead visitor center you can continue straight on a fairly decent paved road for about 3mi.  At this point it turns into a dirt road and this is wear the high clearance vehicle is recommended.  If you are a skillful low rider, you could probably make it, but it'll take you a while with some slick maneuvering.  You'll be on the dirt road for about 4.3mi to the 4 points area.  This is wear you can park.

From this point it was a all fire road hike to the summit.  4.5 mi one way. Depending on the day of the week, it can be heavily trafficked by 4×4 vehicle's, dirt bikes and mountain bikers, so consuming a fair share of dust will likely be on the days menu.

It was a fairly boring hike but pretty views if you stop to look around.  If you're feeling adventurous you can double peak and do the neighboring Modjeska Peak on your way up or on your way back down.  You pass right by it and It'll add about 2 mi total to double peak.  We did NOT double peak today.

We meandered around at the top.  Took photos and snacked. It took us a bit find the geo marker and wood sign.  We actually had to pull up other social hiker photos to see what was their surroundings to be able to officially locate the sign.  I recommend taking a screen shot before you head out as there are many towers up there but none are cell towers and cell service is sparse.

So our total miles ended up at 9.7 for the day.

It was not technical or particularly challenging except I recommend an start early to avoid the heat. OH! and a bug net for your head if your sweet like me and gnats move straight for your mouth and nose holes.  They're a annoying.