Trailhead to 0.5 Mile

The Reno Trail begins with an immediate descent through a mixed conifer forest of ponderosa pine, Douglas-fir, white fir, and aspen. The tread is well-defined and easy to follow as a series of switchbacks begins the steady drop toward Bear Wallow Creek.

0.5 to 2 Miles

The descent continues through increasingly rugged terrain as the trail winds down the mountainside. Numerous switchbacks help manage the grade, but hikers should still expect a sustained downhill of just under 1,000 feet.

Along the way stands an enormous white fir that has long served as one of the trail's defining landmarks. Though now standing dead, its immense trunk and towering stature remain a striking reminder of the old-growth forest that once thrived throughout the Bear Wallow Wilderness.

Approximately 2 Miles

The trail reaches the bottom of the drainage where the character of the hike changes noticeably. Grades become gentler as the route follows the drainage toward Bear Wallow Creek beneath a dense forest canopy. During wetter periods, portions of the trail may be damp or muddy.

Final Stretch

The Reno Trail ends at its junction with Bear Wallow Trail (#63), providing access to additional exploration both upstream and downstream through the heart of the wilderness. This junction makes Reno an excellent access trail for longer day hikes, backpacking trips, or simply experiencing one of the most secluded corners of eastern Arizona.