Juniper Spring Trail #271A, AZ

Overview
Short spur trail that slowly climbs from Pipestem Trail #271 to a dependable spring. May also connect to ranching trails north of the Galiuro Wilderness.


Hike
The trail starts a dozen yards west of the drainage, connecting to Pipestem at an unsigned break in manzanita. There are hints of tread that swings toward the drainage and then follows it upstream. It's difficult to keep on the tread and may be easier to jump in and out of the drainage, as both the trail & the drainage will lead you right to the spring.There are some interesting sights along the way, including a few red rock tanks and a large, chunky alcove. The drainage has steep sides, so there are no grand vistas, just cool small things along the route. Tread is faint and not terribly overgrown with spiky plants. Near the end, there is a neat slickrock area that may have trickling water.

Directly above the slickrock, the drainage splits evenly, with Juniper Spring on the left split. There is a large campsite located between the splits, and at least two curious treads that continue (one north, one west). I suspect the northern one may be a cattle/rancher path that connects to Fourmile, but didn't check it out. From here you may either camp, water up, or simply circle back to Pipestem and continue on your trip.

Water Sources
Juniper Spring is the obvious one, this trail seems designed primarily to access it. Pipestem Creek seems fairly dependable, so maybe this trail & spring is for dry seasons?

Camping
There is a nice campsite near the spring, as long as you can avoid the numerous cow patties.

2025-03-26 jacobemerick