Mount Graham, White Mountains, stretches closing this month
Contributed Article/Courtesy ADOT
PHOENIX – The Arizona Department of Transportation is preparing for its annual winter closures of several high-country routes.
The highest reaches of State Route 366 (Swift Trail) ascending Mount Graham in Southern Arizona are scheduled to close on Saturday, Nov. 15. This closure begins one-half mile past the Coronado National Forest’s Shannon Campground, at the end of the pavement.
The area above the gate is closed only to motorized vehicles. Hikers, cross-country skiers, mountain bikers, and other non-motorized users may continue beyond the locked gate to engage in recreational activities.
For those looking for a downhill enduro-style mountain biking thrill, your opportunity awaits below the locked gate. Dubbed the Graham Cracker, mountain bike enthusiasts can get dropped off at Shannon Campground, one and a half miles before the gate closure, to access the Arcadia Trail, where the fun begins!
Take the Arcadia Trail to Arcadia Campground, then jump onto the Swift Trail to connect with the Turkey Flat Trail. Take Turkey Flat to Ladybug Trail toward Angle Orchard, followed by Round the Mountain Trail to Noon Creek camping area…or create your own adventure!
In Eastern Arizona, State Route 473 between State Route 260 and Hawley Lake in the White Mountains is scheduled to close for the winter on Thursday, Nov. 20.
State Route 67, which travels south from US 89A at Jacob Lake, is scheduled to close for the winter on Monday, Dec. 1. This highway leading to the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park typically reopens around mid-May. US 89A will remain open at its junction with SR 67.
ADOT has set Wednesday, Dec. 31, as the closure date for these state highways in the White Mountains of Eastern Arizona:
- State Route 261 between Eagar and Big Lake
- State Route 273 between Sunrise Park and Big Lake
