This trail is slightly more hidden on the northern slope of the San Francisco Peaks, but well worth the drive just outside of Flagstaff. Do it during the last week of September, when summer gives it’s last wave goodbye in a spectacle of electric yellow aspen groves. With the exception of occasional elk and black bear, expect plenty of solitude on this trail. If you can tear your eyes away from the shimmering yellow leaves on a clear day, you just might catch a glimpse of the Grand Canyon ninety miles away.

The approach to the trailhead begins in a flat meadow and quickly tightens into single track surrounded by Conifer, Aspen, and Ponderosa Pines. You have two options at the trailhead; Abineau trail to the right is shorter, much steeper and Bear Jaw trail is to the left is a longer, more gradual ascent. A dirt road at the top of each trail completes the middle section of the loop.