Mount Taylor via Gooseberry Trail #77

The trail begins at a designated 4wd Parking Area. It's advisable to check local conditions for road accessibility, especially for non-4WD vehicles.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you pack out all waste. Be mindful of potential wildlife encounters and the challenging terrain.

The best time to hike is typically during the late spring, summer, and early fall months. Winter conditions can bring snow and ice, making the trail significantly more challenging and potentially inaccessible. Always check current weather and trail conditions before heading out.

The Mount Taylor via Gooseberry Trail #77 is located within the Cibola National Forest. Generally, there are no specific permits required for day hiking on this trail, nor are there entrance fees for the forest itself. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Cibola National Forest website for any updated regulations or fire restrictions before your visit.

The terrain is diverse, starting in a conifer forest before crossing a canyon and emerging onto a broad upward slope. The section leading to the ridge, around 1.3 to 1.8 miles, is the steepest and can be stony and difficult. Higher elevations feature open grassy slopes and rocky ridgelines, with an extensive meadow near the summit. The volcanic origins of Mount Taylor contribute to its varied ecosystems.

This trail is generally rated as "Difficult" or "Moderate" and is considered challenging even for seasoned hikers. With a significant elevation gain over a relatively short distance and much of the hike above 9,200 feet (leading to thin air), it is not recommended for beginners. Trekking poles are highly recommended due to the steep and stony sections.

Hikers should expect to take around 2 hours and 45 minutes to reach the summit and approximately 2 hours for the return trip. This accounts for the steep grade and the need for frequent stops due to the elevation and challenging terrain.

Along the ascent, you'll find pleasant shady sections, a sweet aspen grove at 9,600 feet, and great views back to the east and south. From the Mount Taylor Summit, you'll be rewarded with spectacular, panoramic views in all directions. Keep an eye out for hawks, horned lizards, and cows; some have even reported hearing wolves.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the CDT jhoMT, Forest Service Road 453E, and Gooseberry Trail (77). These intersections can offer alternative routes or extensions for longer adventures.

Mount Taylor holds significant cultural importance for the Navajo people, who know it as "Tsoozil," one of their four sacred mountains. Geologically, it's an extinct stratovolcano. Hikers might also encounter interesting features like "the Big Z" switchbacks and unusually bent trees, which were historically used as directional markers by Native American tribes.

Given the trail's difficulty and elevation, essential items include plenty of water, snacks, sturdy hiking boots, layers of clothing for changing weather, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and a map or GPS. Trekking poles are highly recommended for stability on steep and stony sections. Always be prepared for thin air at higher altitudes.