DESCRIPTION:

 The highest and most scenic trail in the Capitan Mountains Wilderness, this path is often flanked by rocks or may become vague when passing through meadows. It follows the main ridge of the Capitans between the western T58 trailhead and its eastern end (beyond Capitan Peak). 

 Beginning at its western end, at mile 1.1, the trail passes the highest point (not officially designated) on the Capitan Mountains at 10,201 feet. The somewhat vague high point can be missed if not anticipated because it is not signed on the trail. Distant views are not possible from this high point.

 T58 passes through mature forests of spruce, white fir, Douglas‑fir, southwestern white pine, and quaking aspen, and a number of outstanding meadows. Surprisingly, the meadows make up only about 8% of the trail's environment.

 The path favors the south side of the ridge until mile 2.9. Once on the north side, a more delineated route passes through fewer meadows and generally younger but denser trees than on the south exposure.

 Several hills along the ridge have gradients averaging 10% to 15%, with 25% being the maximum. Trees surrounding the occasional meadows frequently obstruct distant views. Grand panoramas are best from the Capitan Peak area, which is off the trail but can be reached.  At mile 6.5, 1.6 miles before the trail ends, the route passes its highest elevation (9,880 feet) on the north side of the peak, near a wooden sign giving direction to Capitan Peak. There is no trail to the peak, and hiking the minimum of 0.2 mile cross-country and 200 feet gain in elevation to it is difficult due to vegetation, rough terrain, and steepness. However, a panoramic viewing bonanza awaits those who do!

 T58 provides access to the following trails, in the sequence reached, from its western trailhead, followed by mileage: T61 and T66 intersection, 3.7 miles; T62 and T64 intersection, 8.1 miles.

 ACCESS:

T58 can be reached by using a high clearance, 4‑wheel drive vehicle, or by hiking up any of the access trails just mentioned (except T62). To reach its western trailhead, begin in Capitan at the NM48 and US380 intersection. Drive US380 east 2.0 miles to FR56, Capitan Pass Road, also known as County Road C001. Turn left and follow FR56  16 miles, to the signed T58 trailhead, near the end of FR56 at the electronic site on top of the Capitan Mountains.

 The first portion of FR56 is a well-maintained, graveled road. At mile 5.4, the maintained route turns right and becomes FR338, also known as County Road C003.  Do not turn right.  Instead, proceed straight ahead over a rutty set of tracks, signed as FR56, that immediately gives way to a rough, rocky route. Do not attempt if muddy.  At mile 7.1 (on Capitan Pass) from US380, turn right to continue following FR56.