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Hello all, I am planning an overnight backpacking trip in couple of weeks on bear flat trail #178 at Hellsgate. I found from the map that it is approximately 9 miles long. I am planning to start from FR405 end and go east till Gordon canyon. I would really appreciate if anyone can help me out with any information regarding this trail such as water sources along the way, condition of FR405 (whether it is passable by a sedan) and condition of the trail. I have been on this hike for a while, reading and researching on internet, but I didn't find a full triplog anywhere. So any advice or tips will be great.

Bear Flat > flat beer

I've never hiked the trail, but the road to Bear Flat is sedan accessible, as is FR200 on the east end at Gordon Canyon. Though it's an easier drive via the Young Road than from Colcord Road if you don't have a high-clearance vehicle.

More importantly however is that right now, the Bear Flat Trailhead is closed due to black bear danger. It is scheduled to be open again September 5th. In the meantime, keep an eye on the Tonto NF website.

Maps and links, plus discussion in this thread:
viewtopic.php?f=2&t=7045&p=83538&hilit= ... ack#p83509

its a bummer... all of Hellsgate is closed and everything between 260 and the rim is day use only right now (I think).

Thanks a lot for the info. Looks like I have to find another trail for the weekend.

Actually, all of Hellsgate is actually open (According to the map.) Just not the trailheads that access it from the north. But it sure is a long drive around to the east side.