Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest Guide

Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest Hiking Trails

• Mogollon Rim Interpretive Trail

  If you have time for just one hike, or if you're looking for an easy excursion, check out the Mogollon Rim Interpretive Trail. Half of the trail is flat and paved, so it's a great option for strollers, wheelchairs, and kids. Along the way, you'll see beautiful views over the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest; make sure to check out the informative markers that offer facts about local history, geology, and plant life.

  Length: 1 mile round-trip

  Intensity: Easy

• Panorama Trail

  Popular with hikers, bikers, and equestrians, the Panorama Trail makes a fantastic day hike. The route travels through pine forests and up to observation points with wide, sweeping views. For the best vistas, hike up to the Twin Knolls. This trail is accessible for most of the year, but conditions are best from spring to early winter.

  Length: 8 miles

  Intensity: Moderate

• West Fork Black River Trail

  If you're up for a fun challenge, spend a few hours on the West Fork Black River Trail. At first, the path takes you along a canyon rim; then, it dips steeply down to the bottom of the canyon and along the river. Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated on the climb back up to the trailhead.

  Length: 2.5 miles

  Intensity: Moderate

• Railroad Grade Trail

  Experience part of the history of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests on the Railroad Grade Trail. It's located on a former railroad grade, which means that you can expect mild slopes and plenty of space to walk side by side. As you travel, enjoy the views of the forest and the surrounding White Mountains. There are four different trailheads along the route — create your own out-and-back hike, or leave a vehicle at one of the trailheads to enable a one-way trip.

  Length: 21 miles

  Intensity: Easy

• Butler Canyon Trail

  Escape the Arizona summer heat at the popular Butler Canyon Trail. It takes you down into a well-shaded, breezy canyon and along a small stream. The trail is short, so many hikers take their time to enjoy the cool air and take in in the natural beauty.

  Length: 1 mile

  Intensity: Easy

• Pole Knoll Recreation Area Trails

  Create your own hike on the trail system at Pole Knoll Recreation Area. In the winter, the trails are popular with cross-country skiers; the rest of the year, you can enjoy the well-marked routes and craft your own easy, moderate, or strenuous hike. The trails wind through a forest studded with pine, spruce, fir, and aspen; they're stunning when the leaves change in the fall.

  Length: Varies

  Intensity: Easy to Strenuous

• West Baldy Trail

  If you're after a pure wilderness experience, check out the West Baldy Trail. To maintain the natural environment, it's closed to bikes, motorized vehicles, and groups of more than 12 people. The first 2 miles are often crowded, particularly on weekends, but the levels drop down significantly by mile 3. With 2,200 feet of elevation gain, the trail offers a pleasant challenge; you'll also enjoy views of Mount Baldy. The mountain is on the White Mountain Apache Reservation, so it's off-limits to hikers. Do the entire out-and-back trip as a long day hike, or park a car at the end of the trail to use as a return shuttle.

  Length: 14 miles round-trip

  Intensity: Moderate