Hikes in the Pinetop area

[krbienst]

Hi to all...just found this forum so first post - great site!

My wife and our two dogs will be spending a couple of nights in the Pinetop area this weekend and are looking for some hiking suggestions. I've seen the hikes listed for the region and the Mt. Baldy loop looks interesting, but not being too familiar with the area was looking to tap into the collective experience for a few recommendations. Like most on this forum, we enjoy the roads slightly less traveled and are looking for something in the 'moderate' variety, anywhere in or around the 2-8 mile round-trip range.

Thanks,
Ken

[Randy]

Another nice hike in that general area is Escudilla. It is south of Eager/Springerville on US 191 There is a trail description here, along with some nice photos. this hike offers nice viewpoints of the area, a gorgeous aspen area -if the leaves are still on the trees- and some nice wildlife habitat. Baldy is also a beautiful hike, especially the lower sections, which run through meadows along the Little Colorado River. Unless you sneak up to the top (currently closed to non-Indians to the best of my knowlege) you will not get above treeline to enjoy the views, nor be able to do your victory dance on the actual summit.

Both trails can feature a bear encounter. Keep an eye on your dogs, and a leash handy just in case...-Randy.

[conform6073]

An organization called TRACKS maintains a system of trails around Pinetop/Lakeside and Show Low, mainly on old logging roads. Nothing very challanging and extremely popular with the ATV crowd; but the trails are close to where you will be staying. TRACKS has a web site, or you can contact Pinetop/Lakeside Parks & Rec.

East Baldy would be a good choice. You would experience a variety of environments and gain some decent elevation in a fairly short distance.

The Thompson Trail on the west fork of Black River is quite nice. Out and back is about 5 miles, and you can lengthen that by crossing the creek and continuing up the West Fork Trail.

You could follow the Little Colorado River upstream from Greer. Near Greer the area will be crowded but most people don't venture far from their cars. There's a very nice new beaver dam about 3 miles up the creek.

The walk down the east fork of Black River from Three Forks is very pretty and affords an excellent chance of seeing bighorn sheep.

[olesma]

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Belladonna - you have GOT to get a good avatar for that logon. Very daring choice in logon ID.