Crest Trail #182

This 11.8-mile (one way), high elevation trail offers hikers spectaculars views of the Gila Wilderness.

This trail is known as the Crest Trail because it generally follows the crest of the Mogollon Mountains from Sandy Point, past Whitewater Baldy, and along the crest to Mogollon Baldy. The trail passes through the 2012 Whitewater-Baldy Complex Fire and patches of remnant mature mixed conifer forest and offers some of the most spectacular views of the Gila National Forest. Much of the burned area is regenerating in aspen, offering visitors the opportunity to witness forest succession in real time. There is a fire lookout tower located atop of Mogollon Baldy.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Current Conditions

Open
The 2012 Whitewater Baldy Complex Fire burned the overstory canopy from much of the Crest Trail, leaving many standing dead stems that frequently fall across the trail. Despite annual or more frequent maintenance, you are likely to encounter downed trees across the trail, especially following wind events.

Specific Trail Information

Trail Number

#182

Accessibility

This trail is not constructed to be accessible for people with disabilities

General Information

Closest Stores:
Fuel, food, lodging, and limited other services are availble in Glenwood (21 miles) from trailhead.

Connecting Trails:

Bead Springs Trail #138
Whitewater Creek Trail #207.1
Whitewater Baldy Trail #172
Holt-Apache Trail #181
Mogollon Baldy Trail #152

Not applicable

There is no fee for use of this trail

Permits are required for commercial or organized uses.

Spring. Water quality is not tested. It is advisable that all water be treated or filtered prior to consumption.

All stock feed brought onto the Gila National Forest must be certified weed free.

Getting There

Trailhead/Starting Points

33.372749, -108.685730 at Crest Trailhead

Parking

Ample parking at Crest Trailhead

Directions

From Glenwood, travel 3.4 miles west on U.S. Highway 180 to New Mexico Highway 159 (Bursum Road). Turn right (east) and proceed 17.3 miles to Crest Trailhead at Sandy Point.