The best walks and hikes in Greenlee County

Greenlee County offers a diverse network of over 35 hiking trails. These routes vary significantly in difficulty, ranging from easy paths suitable for a leisurely stroll to challenging climbs through rugged mountain terrain, ensuring options for all experience levels.

Due to its dramatic elevation changes, from desert lowlands to over 9,000 feet in the mountains, Greenlee County offers year-round hiking opportunities. Spring and fall are ideal for exploring lower desert and river valley trails, while the cooler summer months are perfect for higher-elevation routes in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest or the Blue Range Primitive Area.

Yes, Greenlee County has several family-friendly hiking options. There are 5 easy routes available, providing gentler terrain suitable for families with children. These trails often explore the diverse ecosystems without significant elevation gain, offering a pleasant outdoor experience for all ages.

Many trails in Greenlee County, particularly those within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest and other public lands, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to check specific trail regulations before heading out and to keep your dog on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers.

Yes, Greenlee County features several circular hiking routes. For example, the Tige Rim Trail loop — Blue Range Primitive Area offers a moderate 10.8-mile journey through canyons and pine-covered mountains. Another option is the Horseshoe Cienega Trail loop — Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, a moderate 6.5-mile loop with gentle elevation changes.

Greenlee County's diverse habitats support a wide array of wildlife. Hikers often spot black bears, mountain lions, wild turkeys, and elk in the higher elevations. Near Clifton and Morenci, desert bighorn sheep are frequently seen. Birdwatching is also popular, especially in the river valleys like the San Francisco River.

Greenlee County offers several natural attractions. You can visit Aker Lake, explore the rugged beauty of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, or enjoy the scenic views from Chase Creek Scenic Vista. The region's river valleys, like the San Francisco and Black Rivers, also provide picturesque views and opportunities for birdwatching.

Generally, permits are not required for day hiking on most public trails in Greenlee County, including those within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest and the Blue Range Primitive Area. However, for specific activities like overnight backpacking in wilderness areas or certain recreational uses, it's always wise to check with the local forest service or land management office for any current regulations.

Many popular trailheads in Greenlee County, especially those along the Coronado Trail (US 191) or within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, offer designated parking areas. For more remote trails, parking might be limited to roadside pull-offs. It's advisable to research specific trail access points before your hike.

Greenlee County stands out for its incredible ecological diversity, allowing hikers to experience multiple terrains in a single day. You can transition from desert lowlands with mesquite and yucca to wooded highlands and alpine forests featuring yellow pine and Douglas fir. This dramatic shift in scenery, coupled with a sense of solitude, makes for a truly unique and exploratory hiking experience.

The komoot community rates hiking in Greenlee County highly, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Hikers often praise the region's rugged, untamed beauty, the sense of solitude on many trails, and the diverse landscapes that offer everything from river valleys to pine-covered mountains. The variety of difficulty levels is also frequently appreciated.

Absolutely. Greenlee County is home to several challenging mountain hikes, including trails leading to Blue Peak, the county's highpoint at 9,355 feet. Routes like Upper Grant Creek Trail — Blue Range Primitive Area are rated difficult, offering significant elevation gain and a true wilderness experience for seasoned backpackers.