Near Crest Trail (#25)
View overlooking late fall landscape, golden grass, fire damaged trees, and pines.
Near Crest Trail (#25)
Soaking up the view from the Crest.
Near Crest Trail (#25)
Topping out on White Horse Hill after hiking Three Rivers.
Near Crest Trail (#25)
Beautiful oak grove near the top of the Turkey Canyon Trail.
Near Crest Trail (#25)
Day hike up Argentina Canyon to Crest Trail.

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Hike Trail

Crest Trail (#25)

4.8 (5 Ratings)
Hike above the trees for 20+ miles of non-stop, panoramic views.
20.9
mi
Distance
5,113
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Commonly BackpackedFall ColorsViewsWildflowers
Access Issues
Take plenty of water. The main springs (Turkey Canyon, Argentina, Spring Cabin, Bonito, and Ice) are unreliable. Above the treeline, weather can change quickly. Be prepared for sudden storms.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
20.87mi
Distance
5,113ft
Elevation Gain
4,638ft
Elevation Loss
35%
Max Grade
11,225ft
High Point
8,784ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
This is the Crest Trail (#25) in the White Mountain Wilderness from end to end, starting just below Nogal and ending at the Monjeau Trailhead. Much of the trail is above treeline with panoramic views in all directions. The trail is easy to follow (after the snow melts). The first half is relatively flat, with moderate climbs and drops as the trail crosses from one drainage to another. At Bonito Spring, the trail climbs steeply up the flank of White Horse Hill and continues to climb until it turns east toward Monjeau Peak. The trail from Buck Mountain to Monjeau crosses through forest burned off in the 2012 Little Bear Fire. Although this is doable as a day-hike, spreading the hike over two or three days will make it more manageable. There are many excellent campsites just off the trail.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Papa Murph