Big Bonito Trail #T36

The trailhead is shared by Big Bonito and Argentina Canyon trails. Head southwest out of the parking lot to follow Big Bonito Trail #T36. The trail follows a mostly packed dirt path with the occasional root or rock outcropping. As the trail climbs the valley, it parallels Bonito Creek crossing it several times. There is a cave on the left not too far from the trailhead; we didn't explore it--there are black bear in the area! About 1.3 miles from the trailhead, you'll reach a junction with Little Bonito Trail #T37; Little Bonito Trail #T37 heads west (right), while Big Bonito Trail #T37 turns left to head south up another drainage. The trail follows the unnamed creek uphill for about 0.5 miles before it reaches another junction, this time with Aspen Trail #T35. Stay right to continue on Big Bonito Trail #T36, which veers to the west up the drainage. The grade gradually increases, but never gets too steep, as it climbs to meet Crest Trail (#25) near White Horse Hill.