FR 12 - Cibola National Forest

We ran the Manzanitas trails in late April before the fire closures. At the time, trails were as expected but some stretches of FR 12 have become heavily rutted with lots of evidence of people going off the trail. These trails are currently closed under the Cibola National Forest fire closure order.

My wife and I loved this short trail which was easy except for the straight up and down section right at the end off to your right, that was fun as hell though. It doesn't look like part of the trail and is intimidating from the bottom, you'll need some clearance to finish that part. Take some time and explore all of the trails along this section.

This trail runs through a beautiful canyon but unfortunately, it's obvious that people used it for mudding all winter despite it being closed. The trail is so heavily rutted from the folks who ignore closures designed to protect the area from damage and who don't abide by the MVUM that it's best use is getting to the Meadow Ridge trail.

This is a fun short trail. Beware though, the ruts on this trail are extremely deep. If it’s muddy and you slide off in the ruts you are going to have a very difficult time in a stock 4x4.

From the north trailhead, FR12 was mostly dry, hard-packed and heavily rutted dirt except for the last 150 yards or so at the end of the trail. This stretch, as shown in the video, is a steep, north-facing slope, covered with large loose rock, including a significant rock step that must be passed before reaching the end and Meadow Ridge Trail 05627. This section is not passable without 4WD and very good clearance even under ideal conditions, and after some snow a couple of weeks ago, it took me several attempts to make it up. Overall, a very pleasant, warm, sunny day and a great time! Note: Camping coordinates are not included as there is no camping allowed along FR12.