Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest
Steeple Mesa Trail #73

This is a long trail, 13.2 miles one way, that is rated as strenuous. It sees moderate use from May through October. The first couple miles of trail are in the mixed conifers and aspen of the high country. Then the trail drops into Steeple Creek after passing the junctions with the Long Cienega and Upper Grant Creek Trails. Quickly, the habitat changes into Ponderosa's, junipers and canyon hardwoods.

The trail climbs out of the drainage at Mud Springs and then meets the KP Trail soon after. For the next few miles you'll be crossing Steeple Mesa, then KP Mesa, losing elevation and watching the vegetation change again into cactus, pinon and juniper as the countryside dries out and gets warmer. When the trail finally ends at the Blue River Road, you'll be down in the cottonwoods and rock formations of the Blue River Canyon. Blue Range Primitive Area so no mechanized or motorized vehicles allowed, including mountan bikes.

Elevation: 9,200' to 5,280'

Access: 23 miles south of Alpine on US 191, go to the southern end of Hannagan Meadow. Then go east on Forest Road 29A to the parking lot for the Steeple/Foote Creek trailhead. If you want to hike up the trail (instead of down), go 3 miles east of Alpine on US 180 to the Blue River Road (Forest Road 281). Turn south and go 30.0 miles to the lower trailhead.

USGS Maps: Strayhorse, Bear Mountain, Hannagan Meadow

Trail map