HikeArizona.COM

If you have experience exploring the Pinalenos, please give me some guidance on best backpacking trails, suggested routes, etc. In Southern AZ, I'm more accustomed to ranges like the Santa Ritas, Chiricahuas, Miller Peak Wilderness, and the Tucson Mountains. In other words, generally well-maintained trails. I had a wild hair and went to explore the Galiuros and it was a bust -- too many trails had terrible route finding due to old fires and lack of maintenance. Just wasn't fun for me. I'm trying to turn over a new leaf by asking for advice before I head over to the Pinalenos. In reading some route descriptions in the area, it also seems like fire has knocked a number of trails out of commission, so advice is much appreciated! Thanks in advance.

Sadly, much of the range was burned (crispy) in the Frye fire in 2017. General consensus here seems to be that some areas are still great for day hikes, but the ability to link together enough earth that isn't completely scorched is very difficult. That will change as the forest heals, but until then you'll be dealing with a lot erosion, an influx of thorny underbrush, and a lot of sun exposure.

You might want to check out the Rincons if you haven't already. The terrain is beautiful, forest is healthy, and trails our in outstanding condition. Due to the nature of the wilderness and the NPS camping restrictions it's a range that is very well suited to backpacking. Very easy to put together a 4+ day trip.

@andrewp
Thank you so much! Unfortunately (and fortunately), in Southern AZ I've hit most of the trail in the Rincons, Catalinas, Chiricahuas, and Santa Ritas and am just in the phase of finishing off minor trails in those ranges. I'm planning on spending more time in the Huachucas (Miller Peak Wilderness) this year, where I've only done the AZT portions. But I'm looking for the "next" wilderness in AZ to explore. I like going back to old hikes, but much prefer treading new ground. . .

Most of the Trails that you would actually backpack have been obliterated. I haven't been back there since the fire just because it's so bad up there. There are still some nice areas on the front of the mountain and near Riggs Lake, but those are all day hikes. I would suggest getting a hold of @SkyIslander18 as he lives down there and still goes up into the Pinalenos on a regular basis.