Saddle Mountain Trail #19

Saddle Mountain Trail #91 follows the eastern edge of the Mazatzal Wilderness within Tonto National Forest, starting from Mormon Grove Trailhead and traveling north along rolling hills towards Saddle Mountain. This singletrack trail is surrounded by thick manzanita and mountain shrubs. It twists and turns through grasslands and oak woodlands with scenic vistas and unobstructed views of verdant hillsides. In the northern end, the trail curves around a remote mining area and crosses dirt roads with access to historic mining sites. It is a moderately rated trail with an overall elevation gain of around 1,212 feet and is open to trail running, hiking, backpacking, and horseback riding. MORMON GROVE TRAILHEADMormon Grove Trailhead is located northeast of Phoenix, Arizona off of Beeline Highway / State Route 87. A high clearance vehicle may be required to access Mormon Grove Trailhead (it may be car accessible given the landscape is dry and there have been no recent storms). Parking is limited at the trailhead. WATERVisitors should plan to bring and carry sufficient water for this trek. CONSIDERATIONSSummer temperatures can exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit and the area contains few shaded areas.Lightning storms are common in July and August. WILDERNESS REGULATIONSSaddle Mountain Trail #91 traverses through a designated Wilderness area where certain restrictions are in place to protect the natural environment. The Wilderness Act intends to preserve "the natural, untamed, undeveloped and primitive aspects" (www.wilderness.net) of a natural area. The following is a list of some activities that are prohibited within the Mazatzal Wilderness:Use of any mechanized or motorized travel is prohibited.No more than 15 people are allowed in a group. No more than 15 heads of livestock are allowed in a groupFor more information about restrictions and regulations specific to the Mazatzal Wilderness please visit, https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/tonto/specialplaces/?cid=fsbdev3_018898.ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONMazatzal Wilderness