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 Reporter |
Summary: At the trailhead there's a box with trail guides. Along the way there are numbered signs corresponding with the guide that explains what you're looking at. This trail is a loop that starts off paralleling a small stream (Big Creek) on your right. According to the guide book there are Apache Trout in the stream. You're walking through stands of Engelmann spruce, aspen, and ponderosa pine throughout the hike. Early on you walk through a beautiful meadow so keep an eye out for wildlife. The trail widens out after a few hundred yards and you find yourself on an old logging road that dates from the late 1800's. You'll notice the trail begins to loop around. The trail is easy to walk and there are plenty of signs along the way to keep you on the right path. At different places along the trail you'll notice exposed granite. This is a great hike and easy to do with children. The guide is great in explaining to them what you're seeing. Trailhead: The Hospital Flat Nature Trail is located southwest of Safford in the Pinaleno Mountains. From Safford drive about 5 miles south on Highway 191 until you get to the Swift Trail which is Highway 366. Take a right on 366 and the road takes you up into the Pinalenos. It is a beautiful drive as you gain around 5,000 feet in elevation leaving the desert behind for cool weather up top. After roughly 25 miles the pavement ends and you'll be on a dirt road. Stay on the dirt road for another mile and you will see the turn-off to the Hospital Flat Campground on your left. There's a loop-shaped parking lot with a path leading down to the Nature Trail trailhead where you can get on the trail. (Lat:32.66352 Lon:-109.87423) Trail Guides for Hospital Flat Nature Trail: Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Summer, User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: Safford Ranger District - (602) 428-4150 - www.fs.fed.us/r3/coronado Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Sean Benesh, who has posted 21 other hikes on this site. To visit this reporters web site, click here. Trail Reviews Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Viewer on 4/11/2007 it was awesome i saw a bear and i saw a group of deer Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Arizona Hiking, Arizona Trails, Arizona Hikes, Graham County Hiking, Graham County Trails, Graham County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
