Fort Bayard Big Tree Trail #755

Area Status: Open

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 Big Juniper Tree is nationally ranked as the second largest alligator Juniper Tree. Its diameter is 70.2 in, circumference is 18 ft. 4 in, crown spread is 62 feet., and height is 63 feet. The Big Juniper Tree is located on lands previously utilized as part of the historic Fort Bayard Military Reservation. 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.

At a Glance

Area Amenities:	Toilets, Parking
Usage:	Heavy
Restrictions:	Day Use only
Closest Towns:	Bayard, NM
Water:	No water available.
Information Center:	Silver City Ranger District Phone: (575)388-8201

General Information

Directions:

Follow U.S. Highway 180 to Santa Clara and turn north onto the Fort Bayard Medical Center access road. Continue past the hospital complex by taking the right fork till you get to the sign with Forest Road 536. This will take you to the Fort Bayard Administrative Site Trailhead and parking is 1/10 mile west of the junction of Forest Roads 536 and 929.

General Notes:

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: 55 243

Activities

Mountain Biking

This moderately difficult trail loops from Fort Bayard Administrative Site to the Dragonfly Trailhead at Elias Road.

Status:	Open
Difficulty Level:	Moderate

Day Hiking

This trail loops from Fort Bayard Administrative Site to the Arenas Valley Trailhead. Big Tree Trail is one of a dozen trails that form short and longer loops around the Ft. Bayard trail system.

Difficulty Desc.	Easy
Elevation desc	6400 - 6600 Feet
Status:	Open
Difficulty Level:	Moderate

Horse Riding

This moderately difficult trail loops from Fort Bayard Administrative site to the Arenas Valley trailhead. Big Tree Trail is one of a dozen trails that form short and longer loops around the Ft. Bayard trail system.

Status:	Open
Difficulty Level:	Moderate

Viewing Wildlife

There is a resident elk herd that inhabits the Fort Bayard area. This trail often skirts open meadows that provide good opportunities to view birds, deer, elk and javelina.