Trail Overview
The Porter Mountain Loop is a scenic 20.3-mile off-road route near Show Low, Arizona offering an accessible journey through the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. The trail circles Porter and Flume Mountains on a mix of maintained forest roads and dedicated OHV tracks. Elevation ranges from 6,445 to 7,068 feet, providing panoramic views of the White Mountains. Historic highlights along the way include the Twin Chimneys homestead and an old log cabin near Sawmill Tank.
The route consists of dirt roads with some rocky sections, earning a technical rating of 3. The main trail accommodates high-clearance 4WD vehicles, though several side spurs are restricted to UTVs, ATVs, and motorcycles. Key access points include the Timber Mesa, Panorama, and US Highway 60 trailheads.
Access Description
Parts of this route are shared with maintained Forest Roads, which accommodate standard four-wheel-drive vehicles, but several connecting sections and side spurs are strictly restricted to UTVs, ATVs, and motorcycles. To prevent trail damage, avoid riding in this area during wet periods, as the dirt paths can become deeply rutted and extremely muddy during the rainy and snow seasons.
