Escudilla National Recreation Trail
Escudilla National Recreation Trail is a three-mile hike that leads to the third-highest mountain in Arizona and has been designated as such by Congress. The trail has beautiful views and a pleasant atmosphere, and it’s relatively easy to hike, especially considering the height climb. Day walks in the Alpine District are well regarded. Hikers on the Escudilla National Recreation Trail will pass through territory devastated by a wildfire in 1951.
Along the path, you can see massive tree stumps that once belonged to Douglas fir trees but were destroyed in the fire. Later, the burnt snags were chopped down to see what might be saved. Among the lush aspen groves that regrew after the fire, these stumps now add to the forest environment by decomposing naturally.
Activities To Do At Escudilla National Recreation Trail
Escudilla National Recreation Trail offers fantastic opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation. Visitors can embark on scenic hikes through the trail, enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings.
The trail also provides ample opportunities for observing and appreciating the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area.
Hiking At Escudilla National Recreation Trail
The Escudilla National Recreation Trail offers a captivating hiking experience amidst the beautiful landscapes of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. The trail spans approximately 5 miles and takes you through diverse terrains, including lush forests, open meadows, and scenic vistas. As you hike, you’ll encounter a variety of plant life, such as towering ponderosa pines, quaking aspens, and vibrant wildflowers that paint the landscape with splashes of colour.
Difficulty level of trail
The trail offers different difficulty levels, making it suitable for hikers of various skill levels. For a moderate challenge, start at the trailhead and ascend gradually to reach the summit of Escudilla Mountain, which stands at 10,912 feet. The breathtaking panoramic views from the top make the trek well worth the effort. The trail is well-marked and maintained, ensuring a safe and enjoyable hiking experience.
Wildlife Observation At Escudilla National Recreation Trail
The Escudilla National Recreation Trail provides an excellent opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to observe and appreciate the rich diversity of the region’s fauna. As you traverse the trail, keep your eyes and ears open to spot various wildlife species that call this area home. Common sightings include mule deer, elk, squirrels, and various bird species. You may even glimpse the elusive black bear that occasionally roams these forests if you’re lucky.
Wildlife thrives in the peaceful trail habitat. To prevent disturbing animals, stay a safe distance, respect their habitat, and observe calmly. Take photos of wildlife, but don’t disturb them. The Escudilla National Recreation Trail offers a peaceful and immersive experience in nature, whether you trek to the summit or watch wildlife. Bring water, food, sunscreen, hiking shoes, and a camera to capture this scenic walk.
Research Natural Area at Escudilla National Recreation
This ecological restoration project was so extensive that it was designated a Research Natural Area. It’s fascinating for ecologists and a remarkable example of how nature can bounce back from environmental disasters. The delicate processes of nature’s renewal are fully displayed as you stroll through this area. After leaving the initial aspen grove, the Escudilla National Recreation Trail steadily climbs through enchanting stands of spruce, fir, and more aspen, broken up by wide open meadows.
The trek up to this sky island is more impressive by several lookouts providing breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding area. The first truly breathtaking panoramas, rivalling the beauty seen from the mountaintop, appear roughly a mile from the trailhead, near the top of Tool Box Draw.
Address: Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests Alpine, AZ 85920 United States
Phone number: (928) 339-5000
Email: randmphotography.az@gmail.com
Elevation: 10,916 ft (3,327 m) NAVD 88
Prominence: 2,372 ft (723 m)
