Roosevelt, Arizona · 4.0 · 6 reviews
Hike the Grand Enchantment Trail with confidence by using the HiiKER toolkit to help you before your hike and during your hike with the HiiKER app.
Embarking on the Grand Enchantment Trail, you'll traverse approximately 1208 kilometers (750 miles) of diverse landscapes, with an elevation gain of around 25100 meters (82,000 feet). This point-to-point trail begins near Roosevelt, Arizona, and weaves its way through the rugged terrain of the Southwest, concluding in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
As you set out from the trailhead near Roosevelt, you'll find yourself enveloped by the beauty of the Sonoran Desert. The trail offers a rich tapestry of cacti, including the iconic saguaro, and a variety of desert flora. Wildlife is abundant, with chances to spot jackrabbits, coyotes, and a diverse array of bird species.
The trail is a showcase of geological wonders, leading hikers through the Superstition Mountains, where the legend of the Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine adds a touch of mystery to your journey. As you progress, you'll encounter the rugged Tonto Basin and the Mogollon Rim, an escarpment that defines the southwestern edge of the Colorado Plateau.
Navigating through the Gila River canyons, the trail offers a stark contrast to the desert landscapes with riparian zones that provide a lush habitat for wildlife. The Gila Wilderness, the first designated wilderness area in the United States, presents a historical backdrop, having been home to the Mogollon culture and later Apache tribes.
The elevation gain is most pronounced as you ascend the lofty heights of the Pinal and Santa Catalina Mountains, offering breathtaking views. The trail's highest point is at Mount Baldy in the White Mountains, reaching an elevation of 3,500 meters (11,500 feet).
As you approach the final stretch towards Albuquerque, the trail meanders through the piñon-juniper woodlands and the volcanic terrain of the El Malpais National Monument, with its striking lava flows and sandstone bluffs.
To reach the trailhead near Roosevelt, Arizona, you can drive from Phoenix, which is about a 2-hour journey. If you're relying on public transport, options are limited, but you can take a bus to Globe, Arizona, and then arrange for a shuttle or taxi service to take you to the trailhead.
For navigation, HiiKER is an invaluable tool, providing detailed maps and waypoints to assist you in planning your hike. It's essential to download the maps for offline use, as cell service can be spotty in remote areas.
Throughout your journey on the Grand Enchantment Trail, water sources can be scarce, and it's crucial to plan your water resupply points carefully. The trail crosses a few small towns and intersects with roads where you can arrange cache drops or resupply.
Remember, the Grand Enchantment Trail is a challenging endeavor, and preparation is key. Ensure you have the necessary gear, permits, and knowledge of the terrain before setting out on this grand adventure.
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