Pine Mountain Trail #14

Pine Mountain Trail #14 is part of a loop that provides access to the Pine Mountain Wilderness, Pine Mountain itself, and the Verde Rim. The west side of Pine Mountain was burned during a 1989 wildfire. From this particular trail the traveler can observe fire-related changes in the vegetation toward a composition of native grasses. Stands of young ponderosa pine are beginning to grow back as well. In areas missed by the fire, old-growth juniper trees offer welcome shade. This trail is short but steep as it climbs the Verde Rim. There are views of Bishop Creek Drainage on the approach to the top. Pine Mountain Trail #14 connects with Nelson Trail #159 and Verde Rim Trail #161, which together with Willow Springs Trail #12, provide a round-trip hike or ride in the Pine Mountain area. This remote region, protected under the Wilderness Act since 1972, offers opportunities for solitude and primitive recreation.