Juniper Ridge Trail
State: Arizona
Location: Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest
Length, One-Way: 14 miles
Trail Type: Out and Back
Minimum Elevation: 6370 feet
Maximum Elevation: 6998 feet
Best Season: March to December
Difficulty: Difficult
Usage: Light
North Rim in Coconino Forest
Trail Information
Juniper Ridge Trail passes through several types of vegetation including pinyon-juniper, pine-oak and manzanita scrub. There are several good views of the surrounding areas, the best of which is from Juniper Ridge Lookout. The rocky trail and the heat of the relatively low elevations may prove to be a challenge in the summer, especially for bikers and equestrians. Crossing Mortensen wash may be particularly difficult during the rainy season.
There is a short loop for those who don’t want to do the full fourteen miles. It cuts the trail roughly in half. As you pass Lewis Canyon, near the group campground notice the junction with the General Crook Connector which winds twelve miles west where it connects to the General Crook Trail.
Directions
From Show Low:
Drive 2 miles west of downtown. Turn right on State Highway 260 towards Payson/Heber. Drive 9.9 miles. Turn left onto Old Highway 160. Drive 2 miles to the trailhead on the right. You will pass the Juniper Ridge Lookout Road.
