Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest
Blue Lookout Trail #71

The Blue Lookout Trail descendsfrom near the lookout tower on top of Blue Peak so you know it's a strenuous climb for quite a bit of its 2.9 miles. On the other hand, because of that strenuous rating, it sees light traffic from May through October. And anywhere there's a lookout tower you know the views are superb. However, this trail is basically a switchback staircase into KP Canyon where it joins the KP Trail. For the route up, take the McKittrick Trail.

This is Primitive Area so no motorized or mechanized vehicles (including mountain bikes) are allowed.

Elevation: 9,346' to 6,800'

Access: Drive 29 miles south of Alpine on US 191 to Forest Road 84 (the Blue Lookout Road). Turn east and go 6.5 miles to the road closure in an open flat. From here take the McKittrick Trail 1 mile to the junction with the Blue Lookout Trail.

Or, go to the KP Cienega Campground and follow the KP Trail from there for 5 miles to its junction with the Blue Lookout Trail.

USGS Maps: Strayhorse