The trail begins with a steady climb while entering beautiful stands of young aspen regenerating after the Wallow Fire. The tread is well established and easy to follow, climbing gradually on a series of gentle grades with occasional roots and embedded rock.

Aspen Forest

As the climb continues, the grade becomes more sustained while remaining comfortable for most hikers. Loose volcanic rock and scattered stones become more common underfoot, requiring a bit more attention, particularly on the descent. Occasional openings in the forest provide expanding views across Terry Flat and into New Mexico.

Toolbox Draw

The trail alternates between narrow singletrack and short remnants of an old logging road while continuing its steady climb toward the ridge. The forest gradually opens, revealing sweeping views across Toolbox Draw then of Mount Baldy, and ultimately distant mountains stretching into New Mexico. This section is generally the steepest portion of the hike.

Profanity Ridge

After reaching the top of Profanity Ridge, the trail briefly descends into an open meadow where it intersects with the Government Trail #119 at the low spot before making a steady climb up the other side and out of the meadow.

Final Saddle

Leaving the meadow you'll begin to taper your climb before dropping into the final saddle below the historic Escudilla Fire Tower. From the saddle the climb through dense aspen regeneration to the upper mountain is more exposed to wind and weather, with expansive views in nearly every direction. Recent stewardship work has helped improve the corridor for both hikers and equestrians.

Fire Tower

As the trail rounds its final switchback, the summit comes into view beyond regenerating aspen. Standing beside the historic fire tower, you're rewarded with an almost airplane-like perspective of the White Mountains, where forests, meadows, ridges, and distant peaks seem to stretch endlessly toward the horizon. It's the kind of place that invites you to pause, catch your breath, and simply take it all in before beginning the hike back down.