BELLEMONT LINE, NORTHERN AREA: CABIN FLAT HILL AND TRESTLE; SECELID TANK AND KENDRICK PARK SPUR

BELLEMONT LINE NORTHERN AREA: CABIN FLAT HILL AND TRESTLE; SECELID TANK AND KENDRICK PARK SPUR

In 1903, a new line began construction from Bellemont, Arizona (West of Flagstaff, AZ.) heading north into the virgin timberlands. The Bellemont Line would become the longest running operation of the S&M. By mid-year of 1909 the line reached Brannigan Park; Fern Mountain in 1913; Kendrick Park 1917; Howard Seep 1920; and Deadman Wash in 1922. Documented spurs reached as far north as present day FR9001E and Lava Tank areas.

The joys of of field research comes with the burden of responsibility. Historical sites can be fascinating in content, yet fragile in existence. A casual disregard of artifacts can result in disaster for the long term understanding and survival of a protected area. Respectful behavior is a necessity to protect a site. Unfortunately, good behavior and forest manners are learned behavior, and not everyone wants to behave. There are regulations for the National Parks and Forests, Historic sites and Private Property. Destruction or disturbance of historical sites or features can result in severe fines and imprisonment. There are limitations on the use of metal detectors in the State of Arizona. If in doubt, contact the Forest Service office or the local regulatory agency.

You may or may not encounter historic sites in the area. If you do, leave the area alone. The point of this posting is to show where the roadbed traversed the landscape, not a tour guide for site and relic hunters. leave things as they are, and do not assume you are not being watched or recorded. Many a trail cam is in the areas mentioned, and the Forest Rangers have a habit of sitting in a secluded spot, watching the comings and goings of mere mortals. Don't get me wrong, I get along (so far) with the Forest Service. They are law enforcement, and they do exist for a reason.

A number of surprises were in store for me as I walked and traveled the area. This particular location has several significant features, such as a double-switchback, and several earthen or rock-fill trestles. The terrain varies from rock ledges to grass covered plots; from forests to open grass-covered parks (we called them meadows, but when in Arizona, say what they locals say.) It is also very remote, and the roads can be very difficult to traverse. a high-clearance 4x4, and a good map are a must.

Blue designates the switchback area. Red designates the "mainline" entering the location.

Yellow is the Secelid Spur. White highlights indicate where the rock-fill trestles are located.

CABIN FLAT HILL AREA

This area is designated in Blue on the map. It can be accessed by exiting on FR191C, Then immediately taking FR9111X up the hill. The road may be washed out, meaning you would have to take the long way via FR760 to FR191C into the area.

The upper switchback lead track.

Remains of the grade as it heads southwest from the top of the hill

where the first switchback is located.

Looking up the ramp/ trestle from the lower switchback area.

Apologies must be made for the lack of clarity in the photographs as to the

layout of the roadbed in this area. I just could not figure out what photo was where,

so a description of this location will have to suffice.

One of the Forest Service markers in the area. Have no idea what it means.

While in the area, visit your tax dollars at work

At the bottom of the incline at the second switchback, looking North. On the left the line is the incline to the top of the hill, on the right the line heads northeast, towards the highway.

The line as it approaches Highway 180. The grade generally follows the highway grade,

until reaching FR 549 further North.

SECELID TANK, KENDRICK PARK SPUR AND TRESTLE

This area is designated in Yellow on the second map, Red on the first map.

Take FR9111V south at the intersection. This will take you to Secelid Tank.

FR9111V

Ties and spike next to FR9111V, confirming it is a spur.

Location near intersection with FR9111X

The southerly spur, as it parallels FR9111V to Secelid Tank.

Before reaching the tank, the spur climbs a hill and steep grade,

necessitating a rock fill trestle

Rock fill trestle along the spur heading towards Secelid Tank.

The trestle is approximately 100-150 feet long.

At Secelid Tank area, looking South. In the foreground are what appears to be the remains of a water tower and sump. The fence line marks private property and should not be entered.

This spur continues on, curving to the East through Kendrick park, generally following FR514. Little remains of this spur in that area, however Forest Service maps shows it did exist. The drive along FR514 is worth it, as you can see the North face of the Kachina Peaks.

CABIN FLAT HILL TRESTLE

(LATTITUDE 35.428947; LONGITUDE -111.773893)

This area is designated in Red on the map

At the intersection of 9111X and FR9111V. Picture taken looking North,

while standing on FR9111V. To the left the road will take you to FR9007F and the large trestle. To the right, the road will take you to the switchbacks and the connection with FR191C.