Upper Pasture Trail #38, AZ

Like many of the trails in this area, Upper Pasture Trail #38 was originally a road built in the late 1800s to provide horseback access to springs and other cattle waters. Evidence of this history is marked by an old horse trough beside the trail, slowly turning to rust with the elements' rhythm. This trail stays in pinyon-juniper woodland and mixed chaparral. Watch for scrub jays and towhees moving from branch to branch. Wildflowers of every color, including creamy yarrow and bright red penstemon, grow along the path. Large granite boulders balanced at precarious angles throw shadows across the landscape. However, the best shade along this route is found under the boughs of a few large alligator junipers that provide enticing spots to take a break and enjoy the view of Little Granite Mountain.


Expect hot, dry conditions during the summer months. There is no reliable drinking water at the trailhead or on the trail. This area is home to several species of rattlesnakes—please watch your step and never handle wildlife. As of August 2010, the trail is severely eroded along much of its length and is unsuitable for mountain biking. Trail access is subject to change with the future implementation of the Williamson Valley-Alto Pit Environmental Assessment.Note
Visitors are asked to be alert and stay on existing trails when recreating on Granite Mountain as the area recovers from the Doce Fire of 2013. Soil erosion has occurred on portions of the trails, thus exposing more rock. Cross-country travel increases the possibility of encountering rolling rocks, stump and root holes, falling trees, and loose soils from rains.

2018-07-14 HAZ_Hikebot