Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest
Timber Mesa Trail #636

This 6-mile loop trail is rated as moderate and sees moderate use from early spring to mid-winter. The trailhead is close to the Lakeside Ranger Station. Riding a bike on this trail can be interesting as the natural trail surface is volcanic rock.

Elevation: 6,640' to 6,960'

The trail begins with a few steep climbs to the top of Timber Mesa, then wanders along the edge of the mesa with good views of Jaques Marsh and the meadows below. About halfway through, the trail drops over the edge of Timber Mesa and returns to the trailhead along an old fire road. Near the trailhead you might see two chimneys and a foundation on the right, this is what remains of the old Jaques Ranch.

Below the mesa edge is a pinon and juniper landscape. Once on top of the mesa you're in a Ponderosa pine and manzanita scrub woodland. In the Ponderosas is one thing but when you are transiting the pinon-juniper, you'll want lots of sunscreen and drinking water.

Access: Drive 0.2 miles toward McNary from the Lakeside Ranger Station on State Road 260. At Porter Mountain Road (Forest Road 45), turn left and go another 2.2 miles. Turn left at the cattle guard, go 75 yards and park. The cindered trailhead is on the right.

USGS Maps: Lakeside