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    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Moderate
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    312 m
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    7.1 km
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    2-3h
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
    Be the first to add a review!
    Directions to Trailhead

    Military Sinkhole Trail

    Measurement:

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    Table of contents

    The Military Sinkhole Trail is a very scenic route in the Tonto National Forest that leads you through a forest on the edge of a mesa to a viewpoint. This hike is nice and shady and it’s at its absolute best during the fall when the trees come alive with color. There are lots of campgrounds just beyond the trail on the mesa if you want to make a weekend trip out of it. Expect moderate traffic on this route.

    Route Description for Military Sinkhole Trail

    We never get tired of a good viewpoint, and the Military Sinkhole Vista is one to add to your list. While you can drive to the viewpoint, we recommend taking the scenic route by foot and hiking the Military Sinkhole Trail. This route is well-signed, very pretty, and accessible for many skill levels. While this hike is always enjoyable, we definitely recommend visiting in the fall to appreciate the splendid colors of the forest if you can.

    The route starts from the trailhead parking area. You’ll ascend up the wall of the mesa on a clear, well-marked trail. You’ll be hiking through the trees for much of this route, which is a relief on hot days. Climb steeply up to where the trail meets the creek, where you’ll cross over and begin a traverse east.

    The traverse eventually begins to pick up a bit of elevation gain as it reaches the viewpoint, but the hard work is over after the first half of the hike. You’ll ascend gradually to the viewpoint, which is at the lip of the mesa. From here, you’ll retrace your steps.

    Getting to the Military Sinkhole Trail Trailhead

    The trailhead for the Military Sinkhole Trail is off SR 260.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground:

      No

    • When to do:

      Year-round

    • Pets allowed:

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly:

      Yes

    • Route Signage:

      Good

    • Crowd Levels:

      Moderate

    • Route Type:

      Out and back

    Military Sinkhole Trail Elevation Graph

    Weather Forecast

    Check Area Weather

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