This trail is rated as moderate and is about 3 miles long, each way. Usage is moderate to heavy with lots of hikers in the summertime and cross-country skiers in the winter.

Escudilla Mountain is the third highest mountain in Arizona. This trail that leads to the top is more of a stroll than a climb, with picturesque surroundings and magnificent scenery. The trail begins in an area that was burned in a huge wildfire back in 1951. You'll find old Douglas fir stumps overshadowed by a thick growth of aspens. The area is such a great example of natural reclamation that it has been designated a Research Natural Area.

There's incredible views all along the way but if you make it to the summit, there's a Forest Service fire tower there that can offer even bigger views: from the San Francisco Peaks above Flagstaff to the peaks and canyons of the Blue Range Primitive Area to Mt. Graham, the Gila Wilderness Area and the Pinalenos to the south.

This trail is inside a wilderness area so no mountain bikes, motorized or mechanized vehicles are allowed. And when you are crossing Bead Springs Meadow, as beautiful as it is don't even think of camping there.

Elevation: 9,560' to 10,877'

Access: Turn on Forest Road 56, 5.5 miles north of Alpine on US 191. Go 3.6 miles to Terry Flat. Take the left fork and go past Tool Box Draw 0.5 miles to the trailhead.

USGS Maps: Escudilla