Little Bear Canyon Trail #729

Little Bear Canyon Trail #729 is a backcountry hiking route in New Mexico’s Gila National Forest. The standard hike uses TJ Corral Trailhead as the start and drops from high-desert terrain into Little Bear Canyon before meeting the Middle Fork of the Gila via Middle Fork Trail #157.

This is a one-way canyon descent of about 4.5 miles, with roughly 629 ft of elevation gain/loss depending on direction (sources present the ~629 ft figure for the canyon approach/descent). Expect the character to change from open pinon-juniper country to a narrow slot canyon with towering volcanic rock and tight passages as the trail funnels downward.

At the canyon narrows, the route runs along seasonal streambeds. Flash flooding is a serious risk in summer monsoon conditions, and hikers should be ready for dry periods as well as sudden water in the canyon bottom.

The canyon ends at the Middle Fork junction (Little Bear Canyon Trail #729 meeting Middle Fork Trail #157). From there, the Middle Fork corridor is the common continuation route for longer day trips toward Jordan Hot Springs.

For longer options, connecting routes can push the outing to about 11.2 miles one day when you add the Jordan Hot Springs extension; sources also describe a 11.1–11.2 mile figure for loops that incorporate Middle Fork Trail #157 and Little Bear Canyon Trail #729.

Difficulty is commonly described as moderate for the canyon descent, trending toward difficult when you extend to Jordan Hot Springs and deal with additional water-related constraints (including getting your feet wet at crossings).

Navigation and water planning matter on this trail: carry enough water for the distance, and use the Middle Fork only where appropriate access allows. The area is also within protected land where the availability of maps and adherence to wilderness regulations are emphasized for finding the route safely.

More information: Visitor information, Little Bear Canyon Trail #729 in New Mexico | Walking Map