Pine Creek Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features River/Creek · Swimming · Wildlife

From the parking area, run down the hill to near the creek bottom. Cruise along easy terrain as you approach Pine Creek Canyon and the Mescalito rock formation that separates the two drainages.

As you approach the mouth, the trail braids in many ways, and extends into both canyons, which is especially popular with rock climbers. Pass some old ruins near the creek, and then continue around to make a short lollipop, or head up either canyon and explore as far as you wish. The terrain gets rougher and turns into boulder hopping through the creekbed at some point. There is water in the creek most of the year, but you can usually keep your feet dry. There are several lovely pools to stop, take a break, and soak your feet on a hot day.

We've spotted bighorn sheep here a few times!