Overview: Out and back hike into Bulldog Canyon on Tonto Forrest Road 3554 from Usery Pass Road. FR3554 ends at FR10 so you could extend this hike North or South from the end of this route. The trail is very sandy but not hard going. I was trail running and found the footing to be acceptable, soft in some place. It's mostly a 4x4 or OHV road but there were more horses than motorized vehicles on the trail.
WARNING! Hiking and outdoor related sports can be dangerous. Be responsible and prepare for the trip. Study the area you are entering and plan accordingly. Dress for the current and unexpected weather changes. Take plenty of water. Never go alone. Make an itinerary with your plan(s), route(s), destination(s) and expected return time. Give your itinerary to trusted family and/or friends.
Permit $$
no fees or permits reported
if incorrect tell us about it
Directions
Road
Strictly 4x4
To Lone Mountain Trailhead Located on the east side of Usery Pass Road. It is 1.7 miles north of the Usery Mountain Regional Park main entrance and 2.8 miles south of Bush Highway. Parking is free, and a Tonto Pass is NOT required for hiking.
It is also an access point for the Tonto National Forest OHV area - Usery Gate for Road 3554. There is a gate to restrict motorized travel on the road but there is a hiking-in gate. If you want to drive this road you can get a free permit at the Mesa Ranger Station. The permit provides you with the combination to the lock.
From PHX (I-10 & AZ-51) - 33 min (31.5 miles) From TUC (Jct 1-10 & Grant) - 1 hr 58 min (118 miles) From FLG (Jct I-17 & I-40) - 2 hr 29 min (175 miles)