Panorama Trail of the White Mountains Trail System

Dogs Unknown

E-Bikes Unknown

This is one of the great trails of intermediate difficulty that is part of the White Mountains Trail System in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests of NE AZ. Major trails are loops, with connector trails. The Panorama is challenging, with good flow, great vistas and sweet singletrack in tall Ponderosa pines. On a really clear day, the San Francisco peaks are visable over 100 miles away. All trail maps are free on tracks-pinetop-lakeside.org.

From the trailhead off Porter Mountain Road head NE out of the parking lot. Riding clockwise, the trail begins with twists and turns through Ponderosa pines, a few short ups and downs with some rocks. You'll pass by a few great vistas before making a fun rocky descent making a right at the bottom at Porter tank.

Halfway down the descent you'll see the Sawmill connector trail, which connects you to Timber Mesa trail.

Now starts a steady climb through more twisty Ponderosa singletrack. Popping out to a jeep trail for just a short bit you hang a right and head up Twin Knolls with another great vista from which the San Fransisco Peaks in Flagstaff can be seen on a clear day.

It is a fast descent down the back side of the knoll, with a few twisty singletrack turns back to the trailhead.

About 1/2 mile from the trailhead, there is a mellow shortcut for those who prefer to avoid the climb up Twin Knolls.

This trail is open to ride in both directions. For a rocky descent followed by a long steady climb and great views ride clockwise. For a short steep climb, long smooth descent, and technical rocky climb ride counter clockwise.

TRACKS, a group of volunteers, was formed in the late 80's to build and maintain the White Mountains Trail System. Major trails include: Panorama, Los Burros, Land of Pioneers, Country Club, Blue Ridge, Springs, Timber Mesa, Buena Vista, Los Caballos, and Ghost of the Coyote. Views of many wildlife, including elk,deer, antelope, turkey, etc. Some trails are close to Native American petroglyphs.