Arizona White Mountains

Attractions and Considerations: To connect the White Mountain Trail System to the historic General Crook Trail, this connector was built. The trail begins at the west end of Lewis Canyon Campground. From there it moves west through several beautiful canyons. After six miles it crosses FR 132 into the Heber Ranger District. Approximately 6.5 miles later, the trail connects to the General Crook Trail.

The General Crook Trail is a designated Arizona State Historic Trail running from Fort Verde to Cottonwood Wash on the Mogollon Rim. The trail follows a route created by General George Crook in the 1870's.

Although the net change in elevation is not very great, there are a lot of short and steep sections on this trail. Geology buffs may notice the rocks in this area are smooth and rounded. This type of rock is called Mogollon gravel. It was deposited here by some ancient body of water before the Mogollon Rim was lifted to its present place.

Access: #1 From the trailhead kiosk at the west end of Lewis Canyon Campground follow the trail west, past the intersection fro the Juniper Ridge Trail.

Access #2 To access the trail around its midpoint, continue on Hwy. 260 past the Pinedale turnoff for about 2 miles. Turn left onto FR 132. After driving approximately 3.5 miles, look for blue diamonds on either side of the road.

For more information, please feel free to contact the USDA Forest Service, Lakeside Ranger District at 928.368.5111 or you may write us at 2022 W. White Mtn. Blvd., Pinetop-Lakeside, Arizona 85935

White Mountains Online wishes to express our appreciation to the USDA Forest Service, Lakeside District for providing this information!