Fort Bayard Big Tree Trail #755
This is an easy scenic walk through pinon juniper setting and rolling plains. View a trail map of the Fort Bayard trail system, including the Big Tree Trail.
The 2.1-mile (one way) Big Tree Trail #755 is a popular destination for many local and out of town visitors to the historic Fort Bayard Military Reserve. The Big Juniper Tree is nationally ranked as the second largest alligator juniper tree in the United States (American Forests 1980, “National Register of Big Trees.” American Forestry Association, Washington, D.C.). Its diameter is 70.2 in, circumference is 18 ft. 4 in, crown spread is 62 feet., and height is 63 feet.
The route to the Big Juniper Tree follows primitive roads that pass through the rolling foothills of the Pinos Altos Mountains which lie to the north. The trail length and gentle nature of the route leading to the Big Tree make it a pleasing choice. It is 1.6 miles to the Big Tree. The last 0.5 mile of trail leads to the Sawmill Wagon Road Trail #243.
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
Accessibility
This trail is not constructed to be accessible for people with disabilities.
General Information
Motorized use is prohibited beyond the trailhead. Please remember to close all gates. No water is available along the route. Directional trail signing is present. Use of the Fort Bayard topographic map is recommended for visitors wishing to explore in the area of the Big Juniper Tree. A toilet and hitching posts are located at the trailhead.
Closest Stores:
Bayard is 4 miles from the trailhead and provides gas stations and shopping center.
Connecting Trails:
Woodhaul Wagon Road Trail #55
Sawmill Wagon Road Trail #243
Stevens Ranch Trail #756
FS Nursery Road Trail #757
Cornell Ranch Trail #758
Dawn to dusk
There is no fee for use of this trail
Permits are required for commercial or organized uses.
No water available.
Day Use only. All stock feed brought onto the Gila National Forest must be certified weed free.
Contact Phone: 575-388-8201
Address: 3005 E Camino del Bosque Silver City, NM 88061
Phone: (575) 388-8201
Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Closed on federal holidays)
Getting There
Trailhead/Starting Points
32.841774, -108.144272 at Big Tree Trailhead
Parking
Ample parking at trailhead
Directions
From Silver City, head east on U. S. Highway 180 for approximately 7 miles to Grant County Road 1-151 to Fort Bayard, following Camino Foresta around the east side of the old military fort, continuing approximately 3 miles past Fort Bayard to the Big Tree Trailhead to the left across from the Gila National Forest work center.
Additional Information
Operated By
US Forest Service
