Trail Highlights: Whether you take the shortcut or continue on for the entire trail loop, you travel through tall ponderosa and piñon pines, manzanita, juniper, and, depending upon the time of year, many different types of wildflowers.
Much of the area was burned in the Rodeo-Chediski Fire of 2002, and this is where you will see low-growing manzanita trees covering the area. Both trails give interesting views of ecological changes caused by the fire.
With either trail beautiful vistas can be seen of valleys and rural communities in the distance; the long loop trail, with greater elevation gain, takes you past the Lookout Tower and magnificent views of the White Mountain region to the east. Watch out for trees blown down on both trails.
Note: Portions of this trail intermittently follow old logging roads. Watch for the trail diamonds.