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Mountain Biking in
the Wild of
Gila County, AZ
Find Mountain Bike Trails Through Gila County
The best thing about mountain biking in Gila County, Arizona is how each trail takes your breath away — not just from all the uphill pedaling, but how almost all the trails wind their way around at some point to a vista.
Overlooks at the end of first-class mountain bike trails include the 200-mile view from on top of the Mogollon Rim out across into the world’s largest ponderosa pine forest, the vista overlooking the rugged Highline Trail and the beautiful jumble of boulders in Granite Dells from the Houston Loop trail in Payson. Or the stunning blue sky from the Pine/Stawberry Trail which has become an integral part of the annual Fire on the Rim Mountain Bike Race. Further south the Pinal Mountains rise over Globe and offer single track trails through stunning pine forests with amazing flora and fauna seldom found.
Luckily, you don’t have to be an expert rider to witness these sights. Trails spread out across terrains suitable for every level of expertise. From the rocky trails found around Payson to the trails along the Rim, which meander through grassy meadows and hug lake shores. To the chaparral and pinyon-juniper hills nestled just outside of Globe, Arizona. Gila County may just be the best kept Mountain Biking secret in Arizona.
Click on the buttons above to be directed to Mountain Biking trails near each of these communities.
Globe, Arizona - Mountain Bike Trails
Bobtail Ridge
The Bobtail Ridge Trail near Globe, AZ, offers an exciting mountain biking adventure with its diverse and rugged terrain. Starting from the trailhead, riders are immediately immersed in a landscape of rocky ridges and rolling singletrack.
The trail features a mix of technical climbs, fast descents, and scenic stretches that provide stunning views of the surrounding desert and mountain ranges. As you navigate the undulating terrain, you'll encounter challenging rock features and smooth sections that cater to various skill levels.
The Bobtail Ridge Trail combines technical difficulty with breathtaking scenery, making it a memorable ride for those seeking both thrills and panoramic vistas in the Globe area.
Difficulty Level: Very Difficult
Check Dam Trail
The Check Dam Trail #190 serves as a connector between the Sixshooter Trail #197 and the Tollroad Trail #200. It is one of several trails that criss-cross the northern foothills of the Pinal Mountains, south of Globe.
The Check Dam Trail was named for the erosion control dams constructed in the area by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the 1930's. There really isn't anything exciting about this trail, other than the views of the high Pinal Peaks above and a windmill. This trail could be used to create a loop hike by using the Tollroad #200, Una Del Oso #201, and Sixshooter #197 trails in conjunction with Forest Road #112.
Two trailheads access the Check Dam Trail: Icehouse C.C.C. and Tollroad. Total mileage given includes the one mile round trip on the Sixshooter Trail to access the Check Dam Trail.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
East Mountain Trail
The East Mountain Trail offers a thrilling mountain biking experience with its mix of challenging terrain and scenic beauty. Starting from the trailhead, riders are greeted by a varied landscape featuring rocky sections, smooth singletrack, and technical climbs. The trail winds through rugged desert terrain and sparse forests, providing sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Expect a series of demanding ascents and exhilarating descents that keep the ride engaging. The East Mountain Trail is well-known for its diverse features and rewarding vistas, making it a great choice in the Globe area.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Ferndell Trail
Starting at the Pinal Peak Trailhead on Forest Road 651F, the Ferndell Trail heads north from the parking lot through a burned area and descends past granite boulders. It soon reaches an aspen grove and continues through a mix of rocky mountain maple, gambel oak, and fir. At 0.25 miles, it intersects with a side trail to Upper Pinal Campground. The trail then levels out, passing through a fern-covered forest and a grove of tall aspens. It reaches the Sixshooter Trail junction, then passes an old rock foundation and a locked gate before ending at the Ferndell Trailhead (0.8 miles one way). You can return the same way or loop back via Road 651.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Icehouse Canyon Trail
The Icehouse Trail itself is 6 miles of almost non-stop downhill, descending 2000 vertical feet. There are occasional very short gentle climbs to keep you honest. Intermittent pumice boulders situated in the trail surface raise the overall technical level to upper-intermediate. The final 1/3-mile plunge off the mesa is advanced technical and requires good skills.
Those who want to earn their vertical -- or who don't have a shuttle -- can ride up Cottonwood Road for an 18-mile loop. The 2000 vertical of climbing occurs over 10 miles (with some up-and-down added) on graded dirt road, so it's basically just a long cruise to the upper trailhead. After the first mile, the Cottonwood Road surface turns to dirt. It becomes more narrow and rough after passing the Broken Mesa trailhead.
Make sure you have loaded the trail gps track on your device.... The start is very difficult to find, and there are no signs above the Broken Mesa/Icehouse trail junction. It is also very easy to lose the trail in the upper sections. Beware that this appears to be a user-created trail, and mostly goes directly down the fall line, which means that it has become a watercourse and is now (in 2018) a rutted rocky experience.
Difficulty Level: Very Difficult
Kellner Canyon Trail
The Kellner Canyon Trail #242 is one of a group of four main trails climbing the north slope of Mt. Pinal. The elevation and north facing slopes combine to create a surprisingly lush alpine microenvironment and some very enjoyable mountain biking experiences. The stands of Aspen near the top may be the closest to the Phoenix area to be found. If you can catch this area when the leaves are turning, it just doesn't get much better.
Although some old mine shafts still dot the area, it is noted mainly for its logging history. Many of the trails, and this trail in particular, are remnants of old logging roads and ruins are numerous.
The Kellner Canyon Trail, like the others in the area, disguises a real workout with relaxing beauty. All of the trails generally start at the same 4500' elevation trailhead and finish near the top of the mountain at over 7500'. Of the four main trails, this one does top out a little further west than the others on FR651 at only about 7200'. These trails are best enjoyed as a one-way downhill via car shuttle. This trail and the Sixshooter #197 are quite possibly the being the two best for biking. It is quite wide and well maintained for most of its length.
Difficulty Level: Very Difficult
Six Shooter Trail
At times there's a running stream early near the top. Wear your pads and attack the downhill ride. The Trail starts off as winding singletrack, includes a short hill climb, then lots of rocks gardens. Singletrack lasts about 8.5 miles, then rest is a dirt/paved road back to Forest Service station in Globe. Great ride in the fall with amazing color.
Difficulty Level: Difficult
Squaw Spring Trail
Squaw Spring features a very cool "staircase" of drainage logs near the top but is otherwise pretty smooth. Amazingly beautiful in the spring and fall. This trail is a fun ride. This trail is easy to loose so be careful and on the look out. Make sure to fully research the ride before heading out onto the trail.
Difficulty Level: Very Difficult
Telephone Trail
The Telephone Trail #192 begins at the Icehouse CCC Recreation Site and quickly heads into manzanita scrub and across a forest road. It diverges from the Icehouse Trail, offering superior scenery and a more manageable climb through manzanita and shady forest. After about two miles, it merges with Icehouse/198 at Doghouse Spring, a scenic spot with relics. The trail then climbs to the ridge, eventually descending into Sixshooter Canyon. Watch for small FS signs and maintenance roads. Near the bottom, you’ll find ruins of an old sawmill and old mine shafts. The trail ends here, but you can extend your ride by continuing up the Icehouse Trail to Ferndell Spring and then looping back via Sixshooter Trail.
Difficulty Level: Very Difficult
Tollroad Trail
The Toll Road Trail #200 climbs the northern foothills of the Pinal Mountains south of Globe, Arizona. Starting in the high desert, this trail terminates in the tall pines of upper Pinal Creek canyon. The Toll Road Trail follows the route of an 1883 toll road that was built to provide access to the Pioneer Mining District on the south side of the Pinals. With three other trails connecting to it, the Toll Road Trail provides opportunities for loop hikes as well.
This trail can be loose and fast in some sections also very tight and technical in others. Very overgrown and about a dozen downed trees. It's very easy to loose the trail so follow the stacked rocks.
Difficulty Level: Very Difficult
Tonto Basin& Roosevelt, AZ - Mountain Bike Trails
Arizona Trail: 21
Arizona Trail: 21, located in the Tonto Basin area, offers a captivating mountain biking adventure through some of the region's most scenic landscapes. This segment of the Arizona Trail features a dynamic blend of terrain, including smooth, flowing singletrack, technical rock gardens, and rolling climbs that challenge riders' skills and endurance. As you traverse this trail, you'll be immersed in a diverse environment of rugged desert terrain and expansive highland views, providing a striking contrast to the arid surroundings. The route offers a series of exhilarating descents and demanding ascents, each rewarded with panoramic vistas of the Tonto Basin and its surrounding mountain ranges. Arizona Trail: 21 is not only a test of biking prowess but also a visual feast, combining technical elements with breathtaking scenery for an unforgettable riding experience.
Difficulty Level: Difficult
AZT: Four Peaks
This passage begins on the north side of the Roosevelt Lake Bridge at the Vineyard Trailhead on Highway 188. The trail climbs immediately along Inspiration Point, passes the radio towers and then passes north of Vineyard Mountain. It climbs up to the Mills Ridge Trailhead and from here a trail (#130) continues up and reaches the Four Peaks Wilderness boundary. The trail drops into Buckhorn Creek and then goes up again, passing Hackberry Creek and finally reaching Granite Spring. From here a new section of #130 heads north and then west, skirting around Buckhorn Peak. Heading north again the trail intersects with the Alder Creek Trail (#82) and then the Oak Flat Trail (#123) where it turns left and soon reaches Shake Spring. From here the trail works its way north and west to Pigeon Spring, climbs southwest on an old roadbed, and finally comes to the Pigeon Spring Trailhead on FR 648.
Difficulty Level: Difficult
AZT: Saddle Mountain
From the Highway 87 underpass, the trail follows a drainage west a short distance and then turns right. It goes through one gate and then another and then swings north and through another gate. It continues northwest, reaches yet another gate, goes up a drainage, crosses it and gets to another gate. It then passes under twin powerlines and comes to a trail junction marked by a steel AZT sign. Cross F TH is 0.5 miles to the right/east. A turn to the left here, through another gate and the trail begins working up a drainage. It goes over a low saddle and follows another drainage, curving around to the north and then northeast, reaching the junction with Saddle Mountain Trail 91. Mormon Grove TH is 0.5 miles to the east. The AZT follows Trail 91 north to the junction with Sheep Creek Trail 88. It takes Trail 88 a short mile, dropping into wooded McFarland Canyon (great camping) where it takes Thicket Spring Trail 95 downstream east for 0.5 mile, across the Wilderness boundary to a sharp left turn up out of the canyon. Another mile and it reaches the junction with West Fork Trail 260, portions of which were rebuilt in 2015. The AZT takes this new route east, dropping steeply into an unnamed canyon and reaches the Cornucopia Trail 86, where it turns sharply left/north and follows the drainage 1.5 miles to the junction with the Thicket Spring Trail 95. A right (east) turn here and another mile climbing and the trail reaches the Mazatzal Divide Trail junction marked with a steel AZT sign and the end of the passage.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
AZT: Superstition Wilderness
The trail enters the Superstition Wilderness and descends into Rogers Canyon on trail #109. It reaches an intersection with trail #110 and then turns northeast and travels up on to Reavis Saddle and on to the ruins of Reavis Ranch. From the ranch area trail #109 heads north to a junction with trail #117 (the Reavis Gap Trail). The route follows this trail across Pine Creek towards Reavis Gap. At a trail junction with trail #119 (the Two Bar Ridge Trail) the route turns and goes past Walnut Spring, Two Bar Mountain and along the high Two Bar Ridge.
Just beyond Pinyon Mountain trail #119 ends at the Black Bush ranch road (FR 83). The route follows this road and then turns north on trail #120 (the Cottonwood Trail). This trail goes through Cottonwood Canyon, by Cottonwood Spring and then onto FR 341. This road climbs out of Cottonwood Canyon and then descends to trail #121 (the Thompson Trail).
Trail #121 parallels Roosevelt Lake, passes the Roosevelt Cemetery and then works its way over and down to the Thompson Trailhead. From here the route follows Highway 88 over the Roosevelt Lake Bridge to the Vineyard Trailhead. Learn more about this trail and get directions by clicking on the link below. We hope you enjoy the breathtaking landscape of the AZ Trail along the Superstition Wilderness.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
El Oso Road
For the most part, this long trail is suitable for passenger vehicles in dry weather. However, there is one section, a 0.5-milelong stretch immediately east of the Mud Springs Trailhead, for which high-clearance vehicles, preferably 4WDs, are required. The day the trail was surveyed there was a VW Beetle abandoned on this stretch of trail. The unfortunate vehicle suffered major damage to its undercarriage and was hopelessly stuck on the embedded rocks.
The driver was lucky enough to catch a ride with a passing vehicle. Special Attractions: Very scenic ridgeline trail with excellent primitive camping spots; Remains of the El Oso and Jolene Mines; Optional 7-rated detour. High-clearance 4WDs are preferred, but any high-clearance vehicle is acceptable. Expect a rough road surface; mud and sand are possible but will be easily passable. You may encounter rocks up to 6 inches in diameter, a loose road surface, and shelf roads, though these will be wide enough for passing or will have adequate pull-offs.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
FR 27
FR 27, located in the Tonto Basin area near Globe, AZ, offers a thrilling mountain biking experience set against a backdrop of rugged desert and scenic highlands. This trail traverses a diverse and challenging landscape, featuring rocky ascents, smooth descents, and technical sections that require skill and precision. As you ride along FR 27, you'll encounter a mix of fast, flowing stretches and demanding, technical features, keeping the adventure exciting and varied.
The trail provides stunning panoramic views of the Tonto Basin’s expansive desert scenery and nearby mountain ranges, enhancing the overall experience with its dramatic vistas. With its combination of challenging terrain and breathtaking landscapes, FR 27 is a standout choice for mountain bikers looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Tonto Basin area. For more information about Forest Road 27 please click on the link below for all important details pertaining to the trail.
Difficulty Level: Difficult
FR 429
Forest Road 429 is close to Roosevelt, Arizona and climbs from about 1500 to 3800 feet. It is a dirt gravel road with some great views of the surrounding area and Roosevelt Lake.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
FR 201
Close to Sunflower, Arizona this is a dirt gravel road with some fun downhills and some moderate uphill climbs. Best time to ride is autumn, winter or spring.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
FR 626
This is a generally well-maintained Forest Road gravel. Sometimes slippery marbley gravel sometimes ruts, generally strict uphill workout Trail. There are some Shady sections however it's mostly in the Sun. Because of the elevation and proximity to Phoenix, it's a good trail to get out of the city Heat and into some cooler temperatures for a great workout.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Park Trail #66
While this is an official trail on the Tonto National Forest and open to bikes, it's not much of a trail. Heavy vegetation makes the trail tread extremely difficult to follow. Some work has been done on the lower reaches, but the upper portion is really bad. This trail needs some love. The potential for a backcountry route is there, if the manpower is available. Proceed at your own risk.
Difficulty Level: Very Difficult
Payson, Arizona - Mountain Bike Trails
American Gulch Trail
The American Gulch Trail begins approximately 2.6 miles west of the Highway 87 and Main Street intersection. Main Street turns into Country Club Drive and then into Doll Baby Ranch Road, as you head west. After passing the Northern Gila County Sanitation District site, you will continue on Doll Baby Ranch Road until you see a widened dirt parking area immediately west of a cattle guard. This area can be used for parking. The trail begins on the north side of Doll Baby Ranch Road, right after the cattle guard. This is a PATS trail/USFS road that currently does not prohibit motorized vehicles, so expect to see all trail-user types on this section. This trail does not yet connect with the North Section of the American Gulch Trail, but a future connection will be made.
Difficulty Level: Difficult
Aspen Trail
The Aspen Trail in Gila County offers an exhilarating mountain biking experience for enthusiasts of all skill levels. Nestled within the picturesque landscape of the Tonto National Forest, this trail winds through a diverse terrain featuring dense forests of aspen and ponderosa pine, rocky outcrops, and scenic overlooks. Riders will encounter a mix of smooth singletrack and challenging technical sections, including thrilling descents and engaging switchbacks that keep the ride dynamic and exciting. The trail’s elevation changes provide stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making each turn an adventure and every climb a rewarding challenge.
Difficulty Level: Easy
Boulders Loop Trail
The Boulders Loop Trailhead is located 3.8 miles down Granite Dells Road, which initially is paved and then becomes USFS road # 435. The Trailhead begins at the end of the road. You may park off the road and walk approximately 1/4 miles to the trailhead. An existing USFS Trailhead sign provides general trail information.
This is a PATS/USFS trail that currently is not designated a motorized route (USFS road), although occasional motorized tracks may be seen. The Boulders is extremely popular with mountain bikers due to challenging hills, rocks and washes and gets its name because of the spectacular boulders that are scattered around the hills.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Drew Trail
Drew Trail #291 is a 1.01 mile out and back with 41 feet accumulated elevation gain. Located 67 miles south-southwest of Winslow Arizona. May and September are the best months to enjoy this hike.
This is an old pioneer trail built by the Drew family. The Drews homesteaded around Sharp Creek and constructed this trail to Winslow prior to 1909. This trail weaves its way through Ponderosa pine.
On the Sitgreaves National Forest, find the trailhead on the south side of FR 9350. The trail descends very rapidly and is rocky and narrow in many locations.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Fern Gully
Fern Gully is a 1 mile out and back with 26 feet accumulated elevation gain. Located 65 miles south-southwest of Winslow Arizona. September and May are the best months to enjoy this trail.
The Fern Gully Trail in Gila County is a hidden gem for mountain bikers seeking a blend of serene beauty and thrilling terrain. Located in the lush environment of the Tonto National Forest, this trail is renowned for its vibrant, verdant landscape, where dense ferns and moss-covered trees create a lush canopy overhead. Riders will navigate through a series of smooth, winding paths interspersed with technical features like rocky sections and gentle drops, all while enjoying the refreshing shade provided by the forest’s foliage. The trail’s gentle undulations and scenic creek crossings offer a refreshing change of pace, making it ideal for those who appreciate both the thrill of the ride and the tranquility of nature.
The Fern Gully Trail is a captivating experience that combines the excitement of mountain biking with the peaceful charm of a forested retreat.
Difficulty Level: Easy
Fred Haught
This historic trail is part of the Cabin Loop Trail System. It was named after a rancher who once used it to move cattle and supplies from ridge to ridge and valley to valley in the roadless wilderness above the Mogollon Rim. Today it provides mountain bikers, hikers and horse packers access to this scenic area of shallow canyons and forested ridges. The Fred Haught trail was almost lost to neglect after a system of ridge top roads replaced it as the main route for commerce and travel in the 1950's. However, a renewed interest in the area by recreationists and history buffs inspired its recent reopening.
You'll find this trail leisurely and scenic, with a good chance to see wildlife and ample opportunity to imagine what it must have been like when horses and trails were the only way of traversing this picturesque countryside. The monument of the Battle of Big Dry Washshown here is just off of FR 300 at the beginning of the Fred Haught Trail.Arizona Trail Passage 28 (Blue Ridge) uses the first three miles of Fred Haught Trail, from General Springs Cabin to just before the confluence of General Springs and Fred Haught Canyons, where the AZT-28 splits off to the west to head up to C.C. Cragin Reservoir
Difficulty Level: More Difficult
Horton Creek Trail
This is a fun trail to ride. A few techy uphill sections to challenge yourself on. Nothing crazy steep, but the constant grade up to the natural springs provides for a fun RIP on the way down. Plenty of stuff to jump off! A mix of chunky and slalom, with the river constantly following right next to it.
This is one of Arizona's most scenic trails.
Stop along the way and enjoy the beauty and scenery that this trail has to offer.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Houston Loop Trail
Leaving Parking lot, look for brown signs that say "Trail" -- that will keep you dedicated to the 11 miler, which eventually Loops. On the way back, look for "Horse Camp", as the returning trail also leads beyond and up to the Horse Campground.
There are many tangential trails that criss-cross with the Main trail, but I have (thrice) stuck to "Trail" signs. You will need to pass through two wired gates in route to the Loop. Crosses many creeks. Has elevation gains and drops throughout. Red dirt.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Military Sinkhole Trail #179
This is probably the easiest trail down the Mogollon Rim in terms of steepness and hazards along the way. But don't let that fool you this trail has a lot of switchbacks, rocks and steep inclines. The views are to die for. This single track trail is a joy to ride year round and the trail is in great shape and surrounded by cool pines trees.
Difficulty Level: Difficult
Rim Lake Vista
This trail meanders along the Mogollon Rim and provides spectacular views overlooking the rim. Interesting rock outcroppings can be seen along the way. Trail is a little overgrown in along the eastern section of the trail and you should be alert as to where the trail goes in this section. Otherwise you have magnificent panoramic views of the Mogollon Rim.
Difficulty Level: Difficult
Rumsey Park Trail
The trail starts near Taylor Pool in Rumsey Park. Park on the far west side of the parking lot by the pool and the trail is a short distance up a dirt path, starting to the south. Ridden clockwise, it weaves through several switchbacks, across a dirt service road that leads to the water tanks and continues to weave up and around the hill. The path is wide and the turns easy to make on a bike. The trail continues all the way around the hill, taking in sweeping views of the town at every turn. It truly is one of the best ways to see Payson from a bird’s-eye view. While the trail climbs, total elevation gain is 80 feet.
Toward the top of the hill the trail splits in two directions. Stay on the lower trail, which is easier. If you want an additional challenge, take the upper trail.
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Trail 200
To reach the trailhead, park on Gibson Ct. off Phoenix Street, then ride 100 yards up the doubletrack and look left for the trail. If you hit a steep doubletrack climb, you've gone too far.
The singletrack starts with varied terrain: climbs, descents, tight turns, and technical rock sections. After a steep climb, you'll encounter a tight, technical downhill. Watch for a hidden right turn after some boulders to start the lollipop loop. The "candy" part involves a climb, technical section, and a downhill that leads you back near the start of the climb. Complete the loop and return along the "stick" to your vehicle. If you end up on Phoenix Street, just ride back to Gibson Ct. Make sure to fully research the trail by clicking the link below before heading out for your ride in Rim Country!
Difficulty Level: More Difficult
Pine/Strawberry - Mountain Bike Trails
AZT: Highline #31 (Washington Park to Pine)
East from the Pine Trailhead the trail climbs two long, gentle switchbacks ending at an open area overlooking the eastern front of the Mazatzal Range. Working its way east along the Highline Trail (#31), it skirts the southern edge of Milk Ranch Point, passes a nice camping site at Red Rock Spring and crosses Webber Creek at the Geronimo Trailhead.
Continuing east, the trail crosses Bray Creek and then comes to the Washington Park Trailhead. Here the trail crosses a utility road, passes a trail register and drops to a steel bridge across the East Verde River, a small stream at this headwaters location. Across the bridge and left around a quick S-turn the AZT departs the Highline Trail for the Colonel Devin Trail (#290), marked by a sign on a very stout post. The trail continues north along the east stream bank through tall pine, alder and walnut trees, crosses a small puncheon bridge, another steel bridge and one more puncheon before climbing through the rocks and joining the utility road. Near the base of the steep ascent to the Mogollon Rim the trail turns sharply right.
A few hundred yards ahead at a switchback the faint Tunnel Trail (#390) departs the AZT. The AZT continues climbing the Mogollon Rim where the passage terminates at FR 300 near the Battle of Big Dry Wash.
Difficulty Level: More Difficult
AZT: Oak Spring Alt. Acc
The AZT: Oak Spring Alt. Access Trail provides an engaging alternative for mountain bikers traversing Arizona’s Trail, showcasing a captivating array of terrain and natural splendor. This access trail meanders through a diverse landscape, offering a delightful mix of rugged rocky sections, flowing singletrack, and verdant pockets of forest that provide a welcome contrast to the surrounding desert.
Riders will tackle a variety of challenges, from moderate climbs that test their stamina to exhilarating descents that reward with swift, adrenaline-pumping runs. The trail’s design highlights the beauty of the region, with sweeping desert vistas, impressive rock formations, and occasional sightings of local wildlife enhancing the journey. As it connects seamlessly to the main Arizona Trail, the Oak Spring Alt. Access Trail adds an extra layer of adventure and scenic enjoyment to the ride.
Whether you're looking for a thrilling side trail or simply aiming to diversify your experience, this trail delivers a memorable mix of technical demands and breathtaking landscapes, making it a standout segment of the AZT. If you are looking for more information about the Arizona Trail, finding directions, or want all the details of the trail, click on the link below to learn more!
Difficulty Level: More Difficult
Bearfoot Trail
Excellent, well-designed singletrack and beautiful scenery the entire way. Although the trail is only moderate from a technical standpoint, it can be physically demanding in either direction due to a number of short but steep climbs and rugged terrain. The trail holds up very well in wet conditions and dries quickly even after heavy rain. The trail now connects well with a fun section of Pine Canyon #26 to the north of Camp Lomiah. This is an outstanding out-n-back trail that can also be connected with the Pine/Strawberry #15 Trail.
The trailhead starts at Forest Road 608 shortly before the crest of the Hwy 87 climb from Pine to Strawberry.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Cabin Loop Trail System
The Cabin Loop is a series of trails up on the Mogollon Rim that connect a handful of historic cabins. The system is located north of FR 300 and stretches to just south of Blue Ridge Reservoir.
Fred Haught, Houston Brothers, U-bar, Barbershop, and your choice of the General Crook trail or the Rim Road 300 complete the loop system. There are seasonal watering holes throughout the loop.
We recommend bringing a water filter to stay hydrated all day long as you make your way throughout the trail. Enjoy the scenery and a fun ride through Arizona's Rim Country.
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
Donahue Trail
Not much of a 'trail', but rather the shortest distance to gain the rim. Very steep in sections, some loose terrain and encroaching vegetation will grab your handlebars. After the trail tops out, it's still a very difficult ride until it finally pops out on Milk Ranch Point road.
Difficulty Level: Very Difficult
FR 218A
Alternate connection to skip the first climb on FR 300 heading east. Links to Milk Ranch Pt. rd. (FR 21). Great adventure to feel the wind through the ponderosa pine forest along the Mogollon Rim. Click on the link below for more information.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Good Enough Trail
Rideable and very rocky/technical. Trail has lots of growth and is barely visible. So be careful. Very tough terrain with lots of hike a bike. Coming the other direction it would be a fun down hill for skilled riders or some HAB for less skilled. This trail is a good bail point for those on the Pine Canyon trail needing to head back to civilization quickly.
Difficulty Level: Most Difficult
Highline Trail (Old AZT)
This segment of the Highline trail near the Pine trailhead used to be part of the Arizona Trail until a recent reroute of the AZT. It now makes a nice short loop out of the Pine trailhead. One of Rim Country's locals most favorite and trafficked trails in the entire area. Learn more by clicking below.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Pine Canyon Trail #26
This is a great trail and it's getting better, there has been some trail work and there is more to come. I have only ridden it from the North (from Bearfoot tr) to south to the Pine Canyon trail head off of 87.
Coming from Bearfoot Trail you'll see a sign marked Drippings Spring, follow that up a long switch back till you reach the signs Drippings Spring and Rim trail. This is where most riders turn around for an out and back. This section has been worked on a little but still tough and will get rocky and steep for the next 2 miles, this will be the most difficult section of the entire trail. Eventually you will come to a split in the trail and see a sign marked Good Enough tr. if you need to bail take this technical down hill into the neighborhood where it's all easy road back to 87.
From this split stay on Pine Canyon Trail and it gets easier, after another short HAB it's mostly easy down hill to the main trailhead. Use caution as the closer you get to the Pine Canyon Trail head the more hikers you will encounter.
Difficulty Level: More Difficult
Pine View Trail
The Pine View Trail in Gila County, AZ, is a captivating route for mountain biking enthusiasts seeking both adventure and scenic beauty.
This trail winds through a stunning landscape dominated by towering ponderosa pines and sweeping forested vistas, offering a refreshing escape into nature. Riders will enjoy a dynamic mix of terrain, including smooth, flowy sections that provide a fast-paced thrill and challenging technical features such as rocky outcrops and tight switchbacks that test bike handling skills. The trail features a series of undulating climbs and exhilarating descents, each offering unique views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. As you navigate through the dense pine forest, the trail’s well-maintained path and occasional scenic overlooks create a balance of technical challenge and tranquil beauty.
Pine View Trail is not only a testament to the natural splendor of Gila County but also a rewarding ride that enhances any biking adventure with its diverse features and picturesque surroundings.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Pine-Strawberry Trail #15
Trail 15 is part of the Fire On The Rim mountain bike race that is held each September. This track is challenging but with the improvements the local trail crew has made over the past few years most of the heinous sections have been improved or re-routed. This trail is best ridden east to west (Highway 87 to Hardscrabble Road) but can be ridden as an out and back. From highway 87 the trail drops into a drainage. This section was double black diamond, eroded, and mucho challenging but alleviate the continuous maintenance it took changes were made that made it a bit easier and it has held up famously to heavy precip. The trail from there on is a series of short punchy climbs and downhills.
The trail surface is hard-packed with occasional rock gardens. This is one of the prettiest rides in the fall due to the abundance (relatively speaking) of maples that populate the drainages. Late afternoon rides in August and September provide much shade due to big Ponderosas and Strawberry Mountain.
Be advised that during the monsoon (July - early September) that rain can cause some of the clay sections to become very soft.... not fun, but the trail generally dies out fairly quickly (day or 2).
Difficulty Level: More Difficult
Walnut Trail #251
Walnut Trail #251 in Gila County, AZ, offers a thrilling and scenic ride for mountain biking enthusiasts eager to explore the rugged beauty of the region.
This trail meanders through a captivating landscape of dense oak and walnut trees, providing a lush canopy and cool, shaded sections that contrast with the surrounding arid terrain. Riders will encounter a diverse range of challenges, including technical rock gardens, steep climbs, and thrilling descents that demand both skill and strategy. The trail’s undulating profile features a mix of smooth singletrack and rugged, uneven surfaces, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience throughout. As you navigate the twists and turns, the trail rewards with panoramic views of the valley and nearby mountain ranges, enhancing the sense of adventure.
Walnut Trail #251 is a testament to Gila County’s natural charm, offering a memorable ride that combines technical challenge with stunning, serene landscapes. For more information about the Walnut trail be sure to click on the link below to be fully prepared for your ride in Northern Gila County.
Difficulty Level: Difficult
