Below Buffalo Crossing, the Black River and the road part company as the stream begins to drop more steeply toward its confluence with the White River, deep within the Fort Apache and San Carlos Apache Indian Reservations.
The river enters a large canyon here, and the streambed becomes more rocky with fewer pools and longer riffles. Forested slopes close in to narrow the streamside riparian zone and access becomes more limited.
This area is popular with trout anglers trying to find better fishing along more remote stretches of the stream, but it also attracts other forest recreationists as well. The scenery is great and there is a good chance you will see some interesting wildlife, including black bears, which are relatively plentiful here.
Drive south from Alpine 14.5 miles on Hwy. 191 to Forest Road (FR) 26 and turn right (west), then about 9.5 miles to FR 24. From this point you can turn left (southwest) about 1.5 miles to Bear Creek for that access route, or turn right (northwest) 3 miles to the trailhead across from the entrance to Buffalo Crossing Campground.
From Buffalo Crossing, FR 25 continues west 12.8 miles to where you may access the trail at Wildcat Bridge.
Notes: This section encompasses the East Fork below Buffalo Crossing and the mainstem of the river from the confluence of the east and west forks to the reservation boundary.
Trail Log:
0.0 Buffalo Crossing, trail heads downstream.
5.0 Bear Creek confluence, juction with Bear Creek Trail (# 66).
11.0 Centerfire Creek confluence.
11.4 Junction with Fish Creek and Fish Creek Trail (# 60).
12.9 Wildcat Bridge
15.0 Junction with McKibbons Pond route.
19.0 San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation Boundary.
Drive south from Alpine 14.5 miles on Hwy. 191 to Forest Road (FR) 26 and turn right (west), then about 9.5 miles to FR 24. From this point you can turn left (southwest) about 1.5 miles to Bear Creek for that access route, or turn right (northwest) 3 miles to the trailhead across from the entrance to Buffalo Crossing Campground.
From Buffalo Crossing, FR 25 continues west 12.8 miles to where you may access the trail at Wildcat Bridge.
