TOUCH ME NOT TRAIL

Going east towards Cimarron pass through Eagle Nest. At the hair pin curve turn into the reintegration center and make a quick turn to right onto dirt road. The road is bumpy and a high clearance vehicle is recommended. Good tires and driving slow are required to avoid flats from puncture. A series of switch backs (~4.5 miles) leads to a small parking area on your left with a sign high on a tree. The trail starts here down a burmed logging road. Watch for Cairns and follow dirt road to your left. Follow until you reach a saddle where the trail enters the forest. The trail is clear and marked with Cairns.

The trail goes steadily up hill through a small Skree field that is also marked with Cairns. Take note of this area to insure you find the trail on your return. Continuing up you will reach the first large Skree field. The trail through the field is obvious as rocks have been removed to make a depression. At the top you will be in a meadow. Follow the Cairns heading towards the peak until you reach the base of the second & last large Skree field. Again follow the trail that has been made until reaching the summit.

Round trip from the parking area is about 4 - 5 miles, with an elevation gain of about 1500 feet. The views are magnificent, but carry raingear & plenty of water

Trail description and map contributed by Frank Young.