YLE Trail #288

YLE Trail #288 is a rugged short hiking route in the Galiuro Mountains Wilderness near Fort Grant and Willcox, Arizona, built around a singletrack climb to the summit of Grassy Peak.

The route follows a ridge line to Grassy Peak’s summit area, and the hiking is characterized by steep climbs and a remote feel typical of the surrounding wilderness.

Terrain stays primitive and natural: expect significant elevation change, rocky footing, and the possibility of rough sections where you may have to scramble or work around washouts and uneven tread.

Length depends on where you start and how you structure your hike, but it’s commonly described as about 4 miles one-way (so plan on a half-day to full-day effort depending on turnaround/time on the summit).

Access to the surrounding trailheads is generally by rough backroads; in the Galiuro Mountains that often means using a high-clearance vehicle (4WD is frequently needed) and adjusting plans for road/weather conditions.

There are no modern facilities or potable water sources along YLE Trail #288 in the wilderness setting, so you’ll need to carry enough water and be self-sufficient.

Seasonal considerations matter in this area: use the Coronado National Forest fire-restriction and closure alerts to guide timing, and plan for the possibility of road closures or other temporary restrictions.

More information: Owl Creek Wilderness Study Area, Grassy Peak - Galiuro Mountains, USA - PeakVisor, YLE Trail #288 in Arizona | Walking Map