azbackpackr Hi Tech Wizardess
Joined: 31 Dec 2005 Posts: 3639 Location: Needles CA
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Posted: 6/6/2007, 6:53 am Post subject: Mt. Baldy Access info |
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Here is the current status of access to Mt. Baldy.
The West Baldy (Sheep's Crossing) trailhead will remain closed though this summer due to continued road construction and paving of Hwy 273. (Alas! I liked it dirt!)
The East Baldy (Phelps Cabin) trailhead is open from Thursday 6 pm to Monday 6 am, throughout this summer.
Access to the East Baldy trail is ONLY via Hwy. 261. Highway 261 is off of Hwy 260, about 4 miles west of the stoplight in Eagar. It is paved, and goes south toward Big Lake. When it comes to a T at Hwy 273, you turn to the right (opposite direction of Big Lake) and go about 5 or 6 miles to East Baldy trailhead.
West Baldy trail is accessible on foot via the Crossover Trail. This 3 and 1/2 mile trail is found at the East Baldy trailhead--look for the sign as you begin hiking. So you can do the loop, or you can hike up the East Baldy trail and back down again. Or you can hike the Crossover to the West Baldy trail. It shouldn't be too crowded over there this year, with no easy access!
Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest map is available at REI, I'm told. Also at Western Drug in Springerville, and on weekdays only, at the Springerville Ranger District. |
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