You’ll drop 1,700 feet in about 2.5 miles on this trail, enjoying good views of scenic West Clear Creek Canyon along the way. The trail begins on a pinyon juniper flat and switchbacks down a moderately steep slope into the canyon. The trail was constructed as a route to move cattle between seasonal pastures. It still serves that purpose, at the same time being a recreational resource for forest visitors. As you follow its winding route, you’ll want to take time out from watching where you step to take advantage of the excellent view of one of the rarest habitats in the world. West Clear Creek is home to a healthy example of a desert riparian zone. Some would call it an oasis. It supports an exceptionally diverse plant and animal community. Biologists say that up to 80% of Arizona’s wildlife species are dependent on this productive habitat. 

The trail arrives at West Clear Creek at an area that is popular for fishing, camping, and just plain splashing around. Another way to approach this hike is to start at the Bull Pen Ranch Trailhead and hike up the Blodgett Basin Trail for the view.