Overview
The Railroad Grade Trail traces the bed of a historic narrow-gauge logging railroad that once carried timber out of the White Mountains ponderosa pine forest. The railroad's operational requirement for gentle, consistent grades is exactly what makes this trail enjoyable today: 5 miles of smooth, gradual climbing through open ponderosa forest with none of the steep pitches that characterize most mountain trails.
The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest built much of its early timber economy on the vast ponderosa pine stands of the White Mountains plateau. The railroad corridors that once served that industry are now recreational assets, giving hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians access to forest terrain on trails that were engineered for smooth, reliable travel.
This is an honest easy-moderate trail. The elevation gain of 600 feet over 5 miles is noticeable but never demanding. The forest is open enough to allow good light throughout the day and decent visibility for wildlife watching. Summer heat is minimal at the 7,000-foot elevation, but carry water regardless. Many hikers bring 1-2 liters for a 5-mile out-and-back; individual needs vary. Afternoon monsoon storms are possible July through September.
The Route
Miles 0 to 2.0: From the trailhead, the old railroad bed heads south through mature ponderosa pine forest. The grade is consistent and the path surface is smooth dirt with few rocks. The forest floor here is characteristically open under mature ponderosa, with good sight lines and easy walking. Wildlife activity including elk, mule deer, and wild turkeys is common in the morning.
Miles 2.0 to 4.0: The trail climbs gradually, staying on the old railroad corridor. A few small drainage crossings occur; these are typically dry from summer through fall but may have water in spring. The forest composition shifts slightly, with more Gambel oak and occasional aspen mixed into the ponderosa. This section offers some of the better views across the White Mountains plateau.
Miles 4.0 to 5.0: The route reaches its high point before ending at a junction with the broader White Mountain Trail network. This natural turnaround point for an out-and-back day hike offers filtered views to the east.
Miles 5.0 to 10.0 (return): Retrace the route back to the trailhead. The consistent grade makes the return trip comfortable and relatively quick.
When to Visit
April through November. This trail at mid-elevation is accessible earlier in spring and later in fall than the high-country routes. Snow clears by April in most years and lingers rarely past early December.
Summer is pleasant at this elevation, though July through September afternoons bring monsoon storms. The trail is not exposed, so lightning risk is lower than on ridge routes, but rain can make the dirt surface slippery in spots.
Fall is an underrated time to visit. Wild turkey flocks are especially visible in October, elk rut activity peaks in September, and the aspen groves in higher sections display color through late October.
What to Bring
- Water: many hikers carry 1-2 liters for this distance; no water sources on route; individual needs vary
- Sturdy walking shoes or trail runners (technical hiking boots not required on this surface)
- Rain layer for afternoon monsoon storms in summer
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing in the open forest
- Offline trail maps; cell service is absent
For multi-use trail etiquette and Leave No Trace practices, review the Leave No Trace 7 principles. On shared-use trails, hikers yield to horses and bikers yield to both hikers and horses.
Practical Details
No permit or fee is required for the Railroad Grade Trail as of 2026. The trail is on national forest land open for dispersed camping at least 200 feet from the trail. Campfire restrictions apply during fire season; verify current status with the Pinetop-Lakeside Ranger District.
Cell service is not available from the trailhead. Download offline maps before leaving town and inform someone of your route and return time.
The America the Beautiful Pass is not required for this trailhead, but veterans interested in passes for other recreation areas can learn more at veteran benefits in national forests.
Getting There
From Pinetop-Lakeside: Take AZ-260 east to the McNary area and watch for the signed Forest Road 224 turnoff south of town. Follow FR 224 south approximately 2 miles to the trailhead. The road is gravel and suitable for standard vehicles.
From Show Low: Take AZ-260 east approximately 20 miles through Pinetop to the McNary area.
Verify current forest road conditions with the Pinetop-Lakeside Ranger District. See checking conditions before you go for pre-trip planning resources.