Crest Trail #270

Crest Trail #270 is a long-distance hiking route in the Chiricahua Mountains inside Coronado National Forest, managed as a wilderness trail network that includes the central-ridge “inverted Y” structure with spurs and side loops.

On the north portion of the network, the route runs from the northern boundary of the Chiricahua Wilderness to the foot of the southwestern leg on Monte Vista Peak; about 2.5 miles in, it reaches Junction Saddle.

From the junction area, the Crest Trail supports multiple high points and named access points along the ridge system, including Flys Peak, Anita Park, Chiricahua Peak, and Monte Vista Peak via the accessible segments and connections in this section.

Trail character here is described as moderate in gradient and generally easy to follow, spending a lot of time on wide tread that is cushioned with pine needles and shaded by tall trees; the same network also uses side trails for added options.

A key practical feature of this section is the set of named side-access points reachable from spurs or connecting trails, including Centella Point, Winn Falls, Anita Spring, and Booger Spring.

The main access is from Rustler Park Campground using the Barfoot Lookout to Wilderness boundary segment of the Crest Trail; other canyon trails can also connect into the network.

Forest Roads 42 and 42D are the usual approach roads to the Rustler Park area: unpaved gravel, open seasonally from April through November, and typically not plowed (often closed after early/late snow).

More information: Visitor information, Visitor information, Mount Margaret Backpacking Guide, Mount St. Helens