From the trailhead near the picnic area turnoff, 500 ft/150 m from west of the visitor center, the trail climbs about 1000 ft/300 m in the first mile with scenic views of Montezuma Canyon and the San Pedro River Valley. After reaching the saddle at the top of Smuggler's Ridge, the trail continues westward with southerly views deep into the grasslands of Sonora, Mexico. Trail can also be done in reverse starting at Montezuma Pass via the Coronado Peak Trail.