Segment 09 · Open
Porter Mountain
Length
8.9 mi
Min Elevation
6,526 ft
Max Elevation
7,002 ft
Trail Rating
More Difficult / Blue
Gain
644 ft
Loss
1,012 ft
The Porter Mountain 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 9724X and FR 206E and the junction of FR 22 and FR 9712C near the Maverick Motorized Trail System near Pinetop-Lakeside. The alignment crosses cinder flats and mixed piñon-juniper/ponderosa forest toward the Porter Mountain and Timber Mesa uplands, with spur access to scenic overlooks and local trailheads.
This segment consists primarily of unpaved forest roads and designated OHV connectors, ranging from maintained cinder/dirt to rocky two-track with seasonal ruts, washboards, and short steep pitches — conditions that change quickly after storms. High-clearance 4WD/OHV is recommended, especially where side spurs leave the main roads.
Points of interest
- Porter Mountain Loop (Maverick Motorized Trail System)
- Timber Mesa and Sky-Hi trailheads
- Ice Cave trails off Porter Mountain Road
Amenities nearby
- Food
- Fuel
- Lodging
- Medical
- Potable Water
- Restroom
- Parking/Staging
- Repair
Amenities are concentrated in Pinetop-Lakeside and Show Low. Designated Maverick trailheads (Timber Mesa, Sky-Hi, Panorama, Burton, Clay Springs) provide staging.
Last verified Aug 22, 2026