Cunningham Loop #316

This is actually a system of trails that were designed specifically with mountain biking in mind, but they provide some excellent hiking as well. They consist of a collection of old logging roads that have been closed to vehicles and new trails that have been constructed to create a network of loops. These loops lead through areas of cool, mixed conifer forests made up mostly of Douglas-fir, white fir, Engelmann spruce and aspen groves. The big trees are interspersed with small meadows. On each trail system, the old logging roads are easier traveling than the more narrow connecting trails. The Grant Hill Loop Trail is easiest travelled in a clockwise direction. On this route, great views of the Sulphur Springs Valley, Fort Grant and the Galiuro Mountains can be seen from the end of the first (eastern most) logging road. This is a beautiful loop trail during the fall season when the aspen leaves are turning a golden yellow. If you would like the challenge of a more difficult route, travel the outer loop counter clockwise. No matter which way you travel; the outer loop is 4.2 miles. The Cunningham Loop Trail can be travelled as an independent route or as an addition to the Grant Hill Loop Trail. The main trail is 5.6 miles long, but there are some side trails that may be worth exploring. The trail crosses a few small drainages as well as Grant Creek. If you’ve brought your mountain bike, you’ll find the ride moderate for the most part, with a few sections of trail that will wake you up if you need more than beautiful scenery to get your attention. If you’ve come here looking for a hike that doesn’t require you to walk back by the same route you walked in, you’ve come to the right place, too. And although this trail is designed for mountain bikes, use levels are usually low enough that you don’t have to worry about dodging bicyclists while you enjoy the view. To sum that all up, these loop trails are an excellent place to be, whether you’ve come to ride or stride.