Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest
Thompson Trail #629

This 6.5 mile (round trip) moderately used trail is rated as moderately difficult. It sees its heaviest traffic from April through May, depending on snowpack. The Thompson Trail follows the West Fork of the Black River, a nationally recognized Blue Ribbon fishery.

The trail begins near Thompson Ranch, off Forest Service Road 116. The trail is generally almost level as it travels alongside the river but in places you'll be passing through some boggy stuff (that's why no horses or bikes on the trail). Through the first miles or so you'll notice the "gabions" (large piles of rock wrapped in wire across the width of the creek). These are fish barriers that allow fish to go downstream but not upstream. This keeps the upper reaches of the stream free of exotic, non-native trout. Eventually, the trail connects with the West Fork Trail #628 and loop trail #628A.

Elevation: 8,600' to 8,840'

Access: The trailhead is by the confluence of the West Fork of the Black River and Thompson Creek on Forest Service Road 116.

USGS Maps: 280 NW Big Lake, 280 SW Big Lake