HIGH-ELEVATION MOUNTAIN STREAM Late summer wildflowers go crazy on the Thompson Trail in August. The trail traces the course of the West Fork of the Black River, where a dam aids in the recovery of the native Apache trout.
Getting There: From Eager, go right (west) on State Route 260 for 2.8 miles to SR 261. Turn left (south) on SR 261 and continue for just over 16 miles to State Route 273. Turn right (north), go 2.1 miles to the turn off for Forest Road 116, turn left (south) and continue 3.5 miles to the signed trailhead on the right. The trail begins at a gate located a short distance down FR 116 on the left. Length: 6.5 miles round trip Rating: moderate Kid Friendly: YES Pet Friendly: YES Elevation: 8,540-8,830 feet Best Season: May-October
Photo credit Mare Czinar/PHOENIX
