While the CDT does not connect between the Burros and LS Mesa due to land issues, a section of the CDT north of Bear Mountain remains a nice day adventure.
The access is 10 miles out Bear Mountain Road. Turn right, go through the cattle guard, and park. Continue on foot about one-quarter mile on FR 40831 to intersect the CDT. The trail tops out at around 6900′ on the nose of a ridge north of Bear Mountain, where there wonderful views to the north, it approaches the creek, the trail enters a really lovely Ponderosa pine forest.
Will this trail ever connect with the CDT, eliminating that long road walk into town? Who know. But meanwhile, this is an outstanding local hike, with varied terrain, relatively high elevation and good forest cover. It feels like a hike deep in the Gila Wilderness, even through the trailhead is just 10 miles from town!
Distance: 3.54 miles (one way)
Ascent: 472′
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