Rocky Canyon Trail #700

Rocky Canyon Trail #700 is a long-distance hiking route in Gila National Forest, built as a rugged connection route with a wilderness feel. Mapped as an unpaved path, it’s designated for hiking and is commonly used for day hikes and backpacking trips that include backcountry exploring.

Plan on strenuous effort: the route is about 8.2 miles one way, with roughly 1,350 feet of elevation gain. It intersects with sections of the Continental Divide Trail, which is why it shows up as a practical multi-day option when stitching together larger route plans.

Access is typically via the Sapillo Trailhead/CDNST area or by coming from Rocky Canyon Campground on the North Star Road; the forest roads used to reach these points can be unpaved and very rough. The corridor is close enough to the volcanic/limestone “canyon” country that a nearby connector (Caves Trail #803) is used to reach alcoves and cliff formations near Rocky Canyon Campground.

More information: Rocky Peak Trail - Directory - Visit Simi Valley, Continental Divide Trail in New Mexico - Pacer Walking App, Apache Creek Trail #96 in New Mexico | Walking Map