Bear Mountain Trail No. 54

The strenuous hike to the top of the mountain is mostly unshaded, steep, and difficult in places. The trail ascends over 1,800 feet in elevation over the 2.3 mile hike to the top of Bear Mountain. However, the trail provides spectacular views the entire way, and offers many rewarding turn-around points for those who don't wish to tackle the entire hike. Bear Canyon Trail is the quintessential "it's the journey, not the destination" hike.

The trail begins at a broad path at the parking area, crosses two washes and then starts a gradual quarter-mile ascent to the wilderness boundary at the base of the mountain. The trail narrows and begins a steep and rocky section of switchbacks, climbing 450 feet. It levels out following narrow plateau area and then begins a steep rocky 500 foot climb in a narrow side canyon to a broad plateau. It crosses the plateau gradually ascending, dips down, and then climbs another 400 feet to a false summit. Fay Canyon views are to the right (northeast).

The trail continues a moderate climb to true summit. There are great panoramic views here. Continue over level ground another 200 yards to the Red Canyon overlook and a view of the San Francisco Peaks in the distance to the north. Return by the same route. Do not attempt this hike when there is significant snow on the mountain.

Expect the 4.6 mile round-trip to take approximately 4.5 hours, but you can easily spend the entire day stopping to take pictures and enjoy the non-stop views. The total accumulated elevation gain is around 2,100 feet. Much of the trail is over tilted rock. Watch for white painted diamond-shaped markers to guide you across rock where the trail is indistinct.

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At a Glance