Segment 11/19 · Open
Little Colorado River
Length
16.7 mi
Min Elevation
9,016 ft
Max Elevation
9,410 ft
Trail Rating
Easier / Green
Gain
1,805 ft
Loss
1,776 ft
The Little Colorado River segment is used for west to east and east to west travel when completing the full Alpine Trail loop. The segment extends between the junction of FR 117 and FR 117A and the junction of SR 273 and FR 8037 near the Big Lake-Greer plateau. The alignment traverses high meadows and mixed conifer forest with aspen, skirting the headwaters country of the Little Colorado River and trending toward the Greens Peak foothills. Notable points of interest include spur access toward Greens Peak from the FR 117 area, the Greer Lakes complex (Bunch, Tunnel, River Reservoirs), and nearby trailheads along the West Fork of the Little Colorado near Greer.
This segment consists primarily of unpaved forest roads and designated OHV connectors with surfaces ranging from graded cinder/dirt to rocky two-track, with seasonal ruts and washboards—conditions can change quickly after summer storms or spring melt. High-clearance 4WD/OHV is recommended, though portions of FR 117 are typically maintained cinder when dry.
Points of interest
- Greens Peak spur access (FR 117 area)
- Greer Lakes complex (Bunch, Tunnel, River Reservoirs)
- West Fork of the Little Colorado River trailheads near Greer
Amenities nearby
- Food
- Fuel
- Lodging
- Medical
- Potable Water
- Restroom
- Parking/Staging
- Repair
The closest amenities are in Greer (lodging, dining; Rolfe C. Hoyer Campground across from the Greer Lakes), with full services in Eagar/Springerville along SR 260. To the south, the Big Lake Recreation Area offers multiple campgrounds and seasonal concessions. Dispersed camping is common along nearby forest roads where permitted.
Safety note
This high-elevation corridor sees rapid weather shifts. Summer monsoons can create mud and washouts; winter brings snow and ice. Check current Springerville Ranger District alerts/closures (including any Greer-area orders).
Last verified Aug 22, 2026