The hike begins at an elevation of approximately 7,520 feet at the South Fork Trailhead located just above Bonito Lake. The trail climbs gently up the South Fork of Rio Bonito, turns up Peacock Canyon, loops around the Crest Trail to near Monjeau Lookout and then back down Rodamaker Canyon to the trailhead. To reach the trailhead, take U.S. Hwy 48 north out of Ruidoso approximately 10 miles to the junction with Highway 37. Look for the sign pointing the way to Bonito Lake. Turn left onto Road 107C and go past the entrance to the Westlake and South Fork Campgrounds to the end of the road.
Free parking is available in the center of the turnaround loop at the end of the road.
Most any other parking places require a fee as they are associated with the campgrounds. USFS Road 107 is narrow but paved and is easily traversed by car. This trail generally follows the South Fork Rio Bonito. The trail crosses the stream twice but split logs straddle the stream at each location making the crossings easy. Most of the vegetation along this ascent consists of Douglas and white firs, Gambel oaks, and ponderosa pines.