|
|
Hiking Trails...
 There
are over 15 different hiking trails within 30 minutes of Heber and Overgaard,
ranging in difficulty from easy to “most difficult” as classified
by the U.S. Forest Service. All boast an abundance of beauty in and around
the Mogollon Rim at elevations ranging from 7900 feet down to 6500 feet.
Here are a few examples listed by difficulty.
Rim Lake Vista Trail #622 (easy) This 3-1/2 mile trail
meanders along the Mogollon Rim and provides spectacular views overlooking
the Rim. Interesting rock outcroppings can be seen along the way. The
main trailhead is located just west of State Highway 260 along Forest
Road 300. Forest Road 300 is located approximately 26 miles west of Heber,
immediately across from the Rim Visitor Center. Be careful in July and
August during thunderstorms – get out of the open and off the rim
to avoid lightning strikes.
Willow Springs Loop Trail (moderate) For a moderate
trail, try the Willow Springs Loop Trail. Approximately 22 miles west
of Heber-Overgaard, the trailhead is located just ½ mile north of Hwy 260 off Forest Road 237. Elk and deer can often be observed, especially in the summer, along this system of old logging roads. The trail is located in a Wildlife Habitat Area which is closed to motorized vehicle use to provide a "quiet" area
for a variety of wildlife species. In October, the leaves of the aspen
and oak trees provide a golden yellow contrast to the evergreens. The
trail provides access to the edge of Chevelon Canyon for a beautiful
view of the canyon. Hidden Lake and Jacob Well sinkholes can provide
additional exploring opportunities and are accessible off Willow Springs
Loop.
Drew Canyon Trail #291 (difficult) This old pioneer trail, which was built prior to 1909, starts high in the ponderosa pine and firs. It originates at the Crook Trail, crosses the Hole-in-Ground gravel pit road and drops off of the Rim. The level trail from the Crook Trail to the road is flagged and blazed to aid in locating the trail. The trail down the Rim winds its way through pinyon pine, juniper, manzanita, and more. Dramatic views off of the Rim occur throughout the length of the trail and is one of the best trails to experience the scenic Mogollon Rim. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes and take plenty of water on this rather steep trail. To access the trailhead from Heber-Overgaard, drive west on Highway 260 for 24 miles to Forest Road 300; follow Forest Road 300 for 5.4 miles to Forest Road 9350. Turn south on 9350 and travel one mile.
Horton Spring Trail #292 (most difficult) The first 1/4 mile of this trail is mostly level and very beautiful; then the trail drops steeply (a total of 1200 feet) giving some fantastic views. Pine, fir, and wildflowers grow along the upper portions of the trail. Just a short hike down offers scenic views. The trail connects with the Highline Trail 1 mile below. Take Highway 260 west from Heber approximately 24 miles, turn west on Forest Road 300. Travel west 15.7 miles, and the trailhead will be on the south side of the road.
The Apache-Sitgreaves National
Forest offers aadditional trail
information on their website.
|
