Segment 20 · Open
Land of the Pioneers
Length
24 mi
Min Elevation
6,880 ft
Max Elevation
7,777 ft
Trail Rating
More Difficult / Blue
Gain
1,476 ft
Loss
2,371 ft
The Land of the Pioneers segment extends between the junction of FR 61 and FR 2 on the Greens Peak–Carnero Plateau and the junction of FR 22 and FR 9712C near the Vernon area of the White Mountains. The alignment trends west across cinder flats, piñon-juniper and ponderosa pine, linking the historic FR 61 corridor toward Vernon and the Land of the Pioneers trail complex with views across the Springerville Volcanic Field. Notable points of interest include spur access to the Land of the Pioneers (#651) loop—featuring a box canyon, pioneer cabin ruins, and overlooks from Ecks Mountain.
This segment consists primarily of unpaved forest roads and designated connectors with surfaces ranging from maintained cinder/dirt to rocky two-track, with intermittent ruts and washboards that worsen after summer storms. High-clearance 4WD/OHV is recommended, especially in wet periods or after snowmelt; the Land of the Pioneers trailhead itself is primitive.
Points of interest
- Land of the Pioneers (#651) loop
- Box canyon
- Pioneer cabin ruins
- Ecks Mountain overlooks
Amenities nearby
- Food
- Fuel
- Lodging
- Medical
- Potable Water
- Restroom
- Parking/Staging
- Repair
Full services available in Pinetop-Lakeside to the west. (The Land of the Pioneers trailhead has no water or restrooms.) Dispersed camping is common on adjacent forest roads where permitted.
Safety note
Expect rapid weather changes at 6,800–8,500 feet. Summer monsoons can create slick cinder/mud and localized washouts; winter brings snow/ice and occasional closures. Cell coverage is inconsistent; carry maps/GPS and travel self-sufficient. Check current Apache-Sitgreaves notices before travel.
Last verified Aug 22, 2026