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| Murray Basin Trail |
 The old homestead on the Murray Basin Trail with flat Top on the horizon. |
This is one of the Springerville Ranger District’s newest trails. Rolling hills, juniper trees, open meadows, old windmills, corrals and homestead remnants give this trail a southwestern feel. Panoramic views from small knolls make it an enjoyable hike.
A herd of antelope graze in the distance as we circle Murray Basin and large ancient junipers stand in solitude and spread their angular branches east and west gathering up the sunlight. We stop for lunch near an old corral and homestead. I notice the logs are still intact, but the floor of the small cabin is now a wildflower garden. On the horizon we see Flat Top, a well known landmark located south of Eagar.
As we head back to the trailhead, we are cooled by light rain, the mules we are riding welcome the sight of the trailer and the ride back to the barn.
The best time to hike this trail is in the spring or fall. Little shade makes it a very hot hike in the summer. There is plenty of parking for trailers. For more information about the Murray Basin Trail, call the Springerville Ranger District at (928) 333-4372.
 This homestead ruin had wildflowers covering the floor  Murray Basin Trailhead. |  |
