Airplane Monument Loop

Park at the Sweetwater Parking Lot and cross the nearby bridge on Highway 79 to catch a mostly shaded stretch of the West Side Trail that parallels the highway. Usually, you can hop right over the stream that the bridge crosses, but there is a small detour available if the water level is high.After 0.5 miles, turn onto the Monument Trail at a well-marked junction. This exposed and somewhat rocky section ascends steadily with good views. At the fork at the 2 mile mark, veer right onto the West Mesa Trail. After another 0.2 miles, you'll come to the airplane monument. This is a good lunch spot with a view, despite the bees, which didn't seem interested in us or our food.From the monument, the terrain narrows and become less interesting. The Japacha Fire Road return is rocky but offers a mix of views and shade.