Day Hiking

Day Hiking Areas

• Bradshaw Ranger District

  The Bradshaw Mountains, located south of Prescott, have long been known for being one of the most mineralized mountain ranges in the world. As early as the mid-1800's, mining first brought settlers to this part of Arizona. The Bradshaw Ranger District encompasses the Bradshaw Range and extends beyond it, surrounding the city of Prescott.
  The Bradshaws offer cool relief from the desert below, with numerous developed and dispersed recreation opportunities available. Mount Union, in the Bradshaws, is the highest elevation on the forest, at nearly 8,000 feet. From 7,000 to 8,000 foot elevation along the Bradshaw Range, the vegetation changes from pure forests of ponderosa pine to mixed conifer forests of Douglas-fir and white fir. The weather throughout the Bradshaw District is moderate, with daytime temperatures averaging 50 degrees in the winter and 70 degrees in summer. Recreation opportunities abound throughout all seasons.

  
  Granite Mountain Wilderness, the forest's only "urban" wilderness, is located just a few short miles from Prescott. Other scenic attractions include Thumb Butte, Lynx Lake and the Thumb Butte Loop, as well as drives to Palace Station and Crown King. For more information, please contact the Bradshaw Ranger District.

  Map sales, free motor vehicle use maps, recreation opportunity guides, wood cutting permits, and information.

• Castle Creek Wilderness

  This wilderness of 25,517 acres sits on the eastern slopes of the Bradshaw Mountains and is characterized by extremely rugged topography with prominent granite peaks that overlook the Agua Fria River.

  Elevations range from 2,800 and 7,000 feet. The primary vegetation at the lower elevations is saguaro cactus, palo verde, and mesquite. As the elevation increases, grassland species change into the chaparral community and the highest elevations have ponderosa pine, Arizona whiteoak, and alligator juniper.

  Castle Creek Wilderness on Wilderness.net

  The USFS Wilderness Stewardship brochure explains more about designated Wilderness and how you can become involved in helping care for this precious resource. 

      Horsethief Basin Brocure (12.8 MB PDF)

• Algonquin Trail #225
• Castle Creek Trail #239
• East Fort Trail #31
• Horsethief Canyon Trail #30
• Horsethief Recreation Trail #201
• Jim Creek Trail #235
• Twin Peaks Trail #240
• Willow Creek Trail #236
• Crown King Area (Horsethief Basin)

  Horsethief Basin Recreation Area offers a variety of recreational opportunities including: hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, camping, fishing, and OHV riding. Castle Creek Wilderness is located nearby, and Horsethief Cabin and Turney Gulch Group Campground are available by reservation. Day use sites and trails are open year-round; overnight accommodations are not available during the winter. Scroll down (below the recreation map) to learn more about these recreational opportunities.

  Horsethief Basin Brocure (12.8 MB PDF)

  Note: Until further notice, use of high-clearance vehicle is recommended for those who plan to visit recreation sites in Horsethief Basin.

  Fish Consumption Advisory: The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ), in association with the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AGFD), issued a fish consumption advisory for largemouth bass caught from Horsethief Basin Lake in Yavapai County and south of the community of Crown King. This advisory is based on recent analysis of fish tissue data that indicate elevated levels of mercury.

• Arrastra Creek Trail #275
• Battle Flat Trail #389
• Blind Indian Connection Trail #9211
• Bradshaw Trail #216
• Bullroad Trail #202
• Collins Trail #282
• Elouise Trail #306
• Horse Mountain Trail #212
• Horsethief Lookout Trail #203
• Keegan Trail #91
• Kentuck Springs Trailhead
• Kentuck Trail #217
• Minni Trail #9238
• Old Bodie Mine Road Trail #319
• Pine Creek Trail #289
• Pine Flat Connector Trail #9275
• Tip Top Trail #234
• Towers Mountain Trail #131
• Tuscumbia Trail #215
• Wagoner Trail #213
• Granite Basin Recreation Area

  Nestled among pines and boulders of Prescott's iconic Granite Mountain, Granite Basin Recreation Area offers a variety of recreational opportunities year-round including: hiking, backpacking, horse riding, non-motorized boating, rock climbing, fishing, camping, and picnicking. Scroll down (below the recreation map) to learn more about the excellent recreational opportunities in Granite Basin. 

   

  Granite Basin Recreation Area Brochure  (1.54 MB)

   

  Note: Some sites in this recreation area may close to prevent resource damage following especially heavy snow and when the roads are too icy.  If you plan to visit and want to make sure it is open, please contact the Bradshaw Ranger Station: 928-443-8000.

   

  Notice: Visitors are asked to be alert and stay on existing trails when recreating on Granite Mountain as the area recovers from the Doce Fire of 2013. Soil erosion has occurred on portions of the trails, thus exposing more rock, and cross-country travel increases the possibility of encountering rolling rocks, stump and root holes, falling trees, and loose soils from rains.  

• Balancing Rock Trail #349
• Cayuse Loop
• Clark Spring Trail #40
• Hokaygon Trail #341
• Metate Trailhead
• Mint Wash Connector Trail #352
• Surprise Spring Trail #350
• West Lake Trail #351
• Granite Mountain Wilderness

  An easily identifiable landmark located on the outskirts of Prescott, this 9,799 acre wilderness is characterized by rugged granite boulders, some the size of a house, stacked one atop the other to elevations that exceed 7,600 feet. The Metate Trailhead in Granite Basin is the primary portal to the wilderness which has two maintained trails. Hiking groups are limited to 15 people; equestrian groups to 10 animals. Dogs must be on a leash at all times.

   

   

   

  Granite Mountain Wilderness is the most popular of all the wildernesses due to its proximity to Prescott (only 20 minutes by paved road) and the unique experience it offers for hiking among huge granite boulders, rock formations, and the outstanding view of the surrounding area.

  Campfires are prohibited, however, stoves fueled by propane or white gas are permitted. There is no camping within 200 feet of Granite Mountain Trail #261. For rock climbing, maintenance of existing fixed anchors is permitted, but no new anchors are allowed.

  Trails within this wilderness include: 

  • Granite Mountain Trail #261
  • Tin Trough springs Trail #308
  • Baby Granite Loop

  Granite Mountain Wilderness on Wilderness.net

  Granite Basin Recreation Area Brochure  (1.54 MB)

  The USFS Wilderness Stewardship brochure explains more about designated Wilderness and how you can become involved in helping care for this precious resource. 

• Baby Granite Loop
• Granite Mountain Trail #261
• Tin Trough Springs Trail #308
• Granite Mountain via Williamson Valley Road

  Trails starting on the east side of Granite Mountain may be reached via Williamson Valley Road:

   

  • Almosta Trail #622
  • Mint Wash Trail #345
  • Willow Trail #347 

  Granite Basin Recreation Area Brochure  (1.54 MB)

• Almosta Trail #622
• Jim Higgs Trail #1937
• Mint Wash Trail #345
• North Granite Trail #671
• Williamson Valley Trailhead
• Willow Trail #347
• Groom Creek Area

  Located in the cool pines of central Arizona, Groom Creek offers a variety of recreational opportunities including: camping, picnicking, hiking, mountain biking, bouldering, and horseback riding.  Groom Creek area day use sites and trails are open year-round; campgrounds are open from May 1 to October 31 and closed during the winter.  Scroll down (below the recreation map) to learn more about these recreational opportunities.

• Blind Indian Trail #211
• Dandrea Trail #285
• Dolphin Trail #85
• E Cross L Trail #281
• Golden Eagle Trail #280
• Goldwater Lakes Trail #396
• Groom Creek Equestrian Trail #307 Trailhead
• Groom Creek Loop Trail #307
• Horsecamp Loop Trail #383
• Isabella Trail #377
• Kendall Camp Trail #65
• Ponderosa Trail #382
• Venezia Trail #381
• Watershed Trail #299
• Wolf Creek Loop Trail #384
• Yankee Doodle Trail #284
• Highlands Center for Natural History
• Iron Springs

  Recreational opportunities that can be reached via Iron Springs Road include: OHV riding, OHV camping, horse riding, mountain biking, and hiking.  Granite Basin Recreation Area, which offers camping and picnicking opportunities, is also reached via Iron Springs Road.

• Alto Coop Trail #619
• Aspen Creek Trail #48
• Little Granite Mountain Trail #37
• Little Granite Trailhead / Day Use Area
• Iron Springs/Jerome Canyon

  Recreation opportunities include hiking, horse riding, OHV riding, and mountain biking.  Trail markers will be added to the map as time allows, and more detailed information will be added to each trail's web page.  Trails in the area include:

   

   

  • Box Culvert Trail #620
  • Cedar Springs Trail #41
  • Circle Trail #322
  • Cold Springs Trail #393
  • Granite Tank Trail #9406
  • High Valley Ranch Trail #391
  • North Granite Trail #671
  • Porter Spur Trail #300
  • Sierra Prieta Trail #366
  • Toohey Trick Tank Trail #9440
  • Upper Pasture Trail #38
  • West Spruce Trail #264
  • White Rock Spring Trail #39
  • Wood Trap Trail

  Trailhead markers will be added to the map as time allows.  Thank you for your patience as we continue to improve this website.

• Box Culvert Trail #620
• Cedar Springs Trail #41
• Cold Springs Trail #393
• Granite Tank Trail #9406
• High Valley Ranch Trail #391
• Javelina Trail #332
• Porter Spur Trail #300
• Sierra Prietta Trail #366
• Toohey Trick Tank Trail #9440
• Upper Pasture Trail #38
• West Spruce Trail #264
• White Rock Spring Trail #39
• Wood Trap Trail
• Lynx Lake Recreation Area

  NOTICE - NO WATER AVAILABLE AT LYNX LAKE RECREATION SITES: The water system that serves Lynx Lake Recreation Area is temporarily shut down as of May 16, 2024 for maintenance. Until further notice, visitors need to bring their own water, including drinking water. Port-a-potties will be availableduring this time. View news release dated 5/15/24 for more information.

  Located in the cool pines just outside of Prescott, AZ, Lynx Lake Recreation Area offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities including: hiking, mountain biking, camping, fishing, boating, and picnicking. Scroll down (below the recreation map) to learn more about the excellent recreational opportunities at Lynx Lake.

   

  Lynx Lake Recreation Area Brochure (1,020 KB) 

   

• Boy Scout Trail #126
• Highlands Trail #442
• Homestead Trail #305
• Johns Tank Trail #94
• Lynx Creek Ruin Trailhead
• Lynx Recreation Trail #311
• Lynx Ruins Trail #301
• Ranch (62) Trailhead
• Ranch Trail #62
• Salida Connection Trail #9263
• Salida Gulch Trail #95
• Salida Trail #93
• Seven Mile Gulch Trail #9854
• Smith Ravine Trail #297
• Poland Junction

  Recreational opportunities include hiking, motorcycle riding, horse riding, and OHV riding.  There are no developed recreation sites in this part of the forest.  Trail information will be added as time allows.  Thank you for your patience as we continue to improve this site.

• Buckhorn Trail #130
• Cat Walk Trail #9438
• Chalk Springs Trail #89
• Charcoal Gulch Trail #9419
• Crystal Springs Trail #9435
• Daniels Ridge Trail #9219
• Grapevine Trail #4
• Little Wolf Creek Trail #304
• Little Wolf Trail #9434
• Nemo Spring Trail #9405
• Prescott Circle Trail
• Prescott Valley, South

  Hiking, mountain biking, horse riding, and motorized trails.  There are no developed recreation sites in this part of the forest.  Trail information will be added as time allows.  Thank you for your patience as we continue to improve this site.

• Prospectors Trail #42
• Red Mountain Trail #43
• White Horse Tank Trail #354
• Prescott to Wickenberg via White Spar Road

  Heading south out of Prescott, White Spar Road (Hwy 89) is a winding, scenic drive ending in Wickenberg.  Various recreational opportunities can be reached via White Spar Road including: hiking, mountain biking, horse riding, and camping.  Remants of the Indian Fire, which burned south of Prescott in 2002, are evident just south of Prescott.

• Banning Creek Trail #81
• Schoolhouse Gulch Trail #67
• White Spar Loop Trails #371, #372, #373 & #374
• Spence Basin Trails System

  ***Note: Temporary Trail Closures During APS Powerline Rebuild in Spence Basin; Intermittent closures to occur through June 2024; News release dated 2/21/24:  www.fs.usda.gov/detail/prescott/news-events/?cid=FSEPRD1165613*** 

  General Spence Basin Trails System Description: Completed in 2018 as part of the Greater Prescott Trails Plan, this 30-mile non-motorized system winds through the spectacular central Arizona highlands. Exposed slopes of chaparral and pinyon-juniper woodland are interspersed with shady groves of ponderosa pine offering loopy, hilly trails for all skill levels.

  These trails are open to hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bicyclists. Please be considerate of other users; slow down and know when to yield the trail. Refrain from using horses and bikes when trails are wet. 

  Camping – The nearest developed camping opportunities are Yavapai Campground (seasonal) and Alto Pit OHV Campground.

• Iron Springs Trailhead

  ***Note: Temporary Trail Closures During APS Powerline Rebuild in Spence Basin; Intermittent closures to occur through June 2024; News release dated 2/21/24:  www.fs.usda.gov/detail/prescott/news-events/?cid=FSEPRD1165613*** 

  Iron Springs Trailhead provides access to trails in the Spence Basin Trails System that lie west of Javelina #332 (Prescott Circle Trail).  Trails east of Javelina #332 can be accessed from Spence Springs Trailhead.

  General Spence Basin Trails System Description: Completed in 2018 as part of the Greater Prescott Trails Plan, this 30-mile non-motorized system winds through the spectacular central Arizona highlands. Exposed slopes of chaparral and pinyon-juniper woodland are interspersed with shady groves of ponderosa pine offering loopy, hilly trails for all skill levels.

  These trails are open to hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bicyclists. Please be considerate of other users; slow down and know when to yield the trail. Refrain from using horses and bikes when trails are wet. 

  Camping – The nearest developed camping opportunities are Yavapai Campground (seasonal) and Alto Pit OHV Campground.

• Clown Town Trail #708
• Little Italy Trail #703
• Missing Link Trail #724
• Rocky Top Trail #727
• Russ T. Fender Trail #728
• Santa Fe Trail #709
• Skyline Trail #712
• Spence Creek Trail #719
• Tatanka Trail #735
• The Village Trail #736
• West Side Story Trail #725
• Zygomatic Trail #761
• Spence Springs Trailhead

  ***Note: Temporary Trail Closures During APS Powerline Rebuild in Spence Basin; Intermittent closures to occur through June 2024; News release dated 2/21/24:  www.fs.usda.gov/detail/prescott/news-events/?cid=FSEPRD1165613*** 

  Spence Spring Trailhead provides access to trails in the Spence Basin Trails System that lie east of Javelina #332 (Prescott Circle Trail).  Trails west of Javelina #332 can be accessed from Iron Springs Trailhead.

  General Spence Basin Trails System Description: Completed in 2018 as part of the Greater Prescott Trails Plan, this 30-mile non-motorized system winds through the spectacular central Arizona highlands. Exposed slopes of chaparral and pinyon-juniper woodland are interspersed with shady groves of ponderosa pine offering loopy, hilly trails for all skill levels.

  These trails are open to hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bicyclists. Please be considerate of other users; slow down and know when to yield the trail. Refrain from using horses and bikes when trails are wet. 

  Camping – The nearest developed camping opportunities are Yavapai Campground (seasonal) and Alto Pit OHV Campground.

• BLM Trail #729
• Juniper Gate Trail #701
• Lloyd's Drop Trail #711
• Noodle Trail #760
• Sidekick Trail #721
• Tunnel Vision Trail #714
• Vista Trail #706
• Wally's Rest #710
• Waterline Trail #733
• Willow Creek Trail #704
• Willy Nilly Tractor Trail #707
• Thumb Butte

  Recreational opportunities include: hiking, horse riding, mountain biking, rock climbing, and picnicking.  

  Thumb Butte Brochure (2.67 MB)

  Printable Thumb Butte Trails and Area Map (1.41 MB)  

  View photo on Flickr:

  • Thumb Butte Picnic Site
  • Thumb Butte Group Picnic Site
• Butte Connection Trail #323
• Butte Creek Trail #321
• Circle Connection Trail #322
• Garden Grove Trail #392
• Miller Creek Trail #367
• North Thumb Butte Trails #315, #316, #317 & #318
• Rancho Vista Trail #387
• Thumb Butte Bypass Trail #326
• Thumb Butte Trail #33
• Wilhoit

  Trails: hiking, horse riding, OHV riding, and mountain biking.  There are no developed recreation sites in this part of the forest. 

  Trail markers will be added to the map as time allows.  For now, please use the left-hand navigation bar to find more information about the trails in the Wilhoit area:

  • East Copper #260
  • Glen Oaks #118
  • Orofino #107

   Thank you for your patience as we continue to improve this site.

• Buzzard Trail #129
• Cherry Creek Trail #214
• Climax Trail #274
• East Copper Trail #260
• Glen Oaks Trail #118
• Orofino Trail #107
• Wolverton Mountain Trail #9415
• Chino Valley Ranger District

  Nestled comfortably in the mountains of Central Arizona at an elevation ranging 3,000 to 8,000 feet, Chino Valley is located about 20 miles north of Prescott and 2 hours northwest of Phoenix. In 1863, Arizona's first Territorial Capital was established nearby at Del Rio Springs, and the surrounding area has experienced explosive growth since the town of Chino Valley was incorporated in 1970.

  
  Watershed, wildlife and range management, dispersed recreation, and fuel wooding are programs emphasized by the District. Chino Valley is also very involved in managing the Upper Verde River Area, habitat of some sensitive and endangered species. Ashes, willows, and cottonwood trees are common vegetation types found along the river banks.
  Although the Chino Valley Ranger District does not have developed recreation sites, there are many recreation opportunities on the District. One of the most popular recreation areas on the west side of the District is Camp Wood, located in the pines at an elevation of 5,700 feet. Approximately one mile north of Camp Wood is a riparian area, Emerald Glade, which is host to a variety of wildlife. This area was created by a masonry silt retention structure as part of our forest's wildlife habitat improvement program. The popular camping areas on the east side of the District are along the headwaters of the Verde River. The most popular trail is Sycamore Trail, located in the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness.

  
  In addition to Sycamore Canyon, three other wilderness areas are located within the district: Juniper Mesa Wilderness and Apache Creek Wilderness on the west side, Woodchute Wilderness on the east side. For more information, please contact the Chino Valley Ranger District.

  Map sales, free Motor Vehicle Use maps, permits, and information.

• Apache Creek Wilderness

  Rolling hills of juniper and pinyon interspersed with granite outcrops characterize this small, remote and relatively rugged wilderness. Established in 1984, the 5,628 acre wilderness features three natural springs and several important riparian areas including Apache Creek. Elevations range from 5,200 to 6,900 feet and the area provides excellent habitat for mountain lion and numerous bird species.

  There are 2 maintained trails within this wilderness:

  • Apache Creek Loop #9903
  • Apache Creek Trail #9905

   

  Apache Creek Wilderness on Wildreness.net

  Printable Trail Description and Map (595 KB PDF; 8.5” X 11”)

  The USFS Wilderness Stewardship brochure explains more about designated Wilderness and how you can become involved in helping care for this precious resource. 

• Apache Creek Loop
• Apache Creek Trail #9905
• Camp Wood Area

  High in the cool pines northwest of Chino Valley, the Camp Wood area has no developed recreational facilities, but has a variety of trail-use and dispersed camping opportunities.  Trails in the area include:

  • 7 Up to Hyde Mountain Trail #5
  • Adra Loop Trail #9044
  • Bt Butte Trail #133
  • Cold Water Trail #21
  • Connel Mountain Trail #9921
  • Cottonwood Mountain Trail #8
  • Cutoff Trail #22
  • Dead Steer Basin Trail #9908
  • Grapevine Springs Trail #9825
  • Hyde Mountain Trail #6
  • Merritt Spring Trail #9
  • Prospect Point Trail #9097
  • Shivers Trail #9879
  • Shivers Trap Trail #10
  • Stinson Tank Trail #9836
  • Stringtown Trail #9917

    

• 7 Up To Hyde Mountain Trail #5
• Adra Loop Trail #9044
• Bt Butte Trail #133
• Cold Water Trail #21
• Connel Mountain Trail #9921
• Cottonwood Mountain Trail #8
• Cutoff Trail #22
• Dead Steer Basin Trail #9908
• Grapevine Springs Trail #9825
• Hyde Mountain Trail #6
• Merritt Spring Trail #9
• Prospect Point Trail #9097
• Shivers Trail #9879
• Shivers Trap Trail #10
• Stinson Tank Trail #9836
• Stringtown Trail #9917
• Bug Hollow Trail #548
• Mescal Trail #547
• Powerline Trail #549
• Upper Mescal Trail #550
• Juniper Mesa Wilderness

  Established in 1984, the 7,554 acre wilderness is characterized by the flat topped mesa from which its name is derived. Elevations range from 5,600 feet on the southwest side near Juniper Spring to 7,000 feet on the west side near George Wood Canyon and Gobblers Knob. The primary vegetation on the steep southern slopes in pinon pine and Utah juniper, and on the northern slopes, ponderosa pine and alligator juniper.

  A great variety of wildlife can be found in the area. Black bear, elk, mule deer, bobcat, and Abert's squirrel are relatively common. There are no perennial water sources present, and the reliability of springs may be questioned during long periods of dry weather.

  • There are 7 maintained trails within this wilderness: #3, #20, #100, #9853, #940
  • Juniper Mesa Wilderness on Wilderness.net

  The USFS Wilderness Stewardship brochure explains more about designated Wilderness and how you can become involved in helping care for this precious resource. 

• Juniper Mesa Trail #20
• Juniper Mountains

  Recreational Opportunities include: hiking, mountain biking, dispersed camping, horse riding, and OHV trail riding.  Please note: mechanized travel  is prohibited within the boundaries of the Juniper Mesa Wilderness Area.

• Bull Springs Trail #100
• Juniper Springs Trail #2
• Oaks And Willows Trail #3
• Old Military Trail #1
• Spur Gulch Trail #9942
• Burro Trail #9041
• Duff Springs Trail #9016
• Powerline Two Trail #990
• Perkinsville - Hickey Mountain

  Area northeast of Chino Valley, and southwest of Sycamore Canyon.  Trail information will be added as time allows.  Thank you for your patience as we continue to improve this web site.  

• Atchison-river Trail #9011
• Black Mesa Trail #9036
• Coyote Trail #101
• Government Canyon Trail #73
• Hell Point Trail #9012
• Martin Canyon Trail #103
• Mc Canyon Point Trail #9013
• River Trail #517
• Secret Trail #58
• Sycamore Canyon Trail
• Sycamore Trail #9033
• Trestle River Trail #9007
• Seepage Mountain

  There are no developed recreation sites in this part of the forest.

• Brushy Tank Trail #9913
• Cabin Springs Trail #9874
• Cement Troughs Trail #918
• Coop Tank Trail #667
• Section 23 Tank Trail #9878
• Short Cut Trail #9915
• Sheridan Mountain/Smith Mesa

  Popular OHV areas with numerous trails designed with off-road enthusiasts in mind.  There are no developed recreation sites in this part of the forest.  

  The webpage for Sheridan Mountain #11  has a more detailed description.

   

  Other trails in the area include:

  • Alligator Spring #9926 
  • Cedar Mesa #13 
  • Anderson #55 
  • Burke Spring #35 
  • Cottonwood Spring #664 
  • Elbow Springs #9941 
  • Queens Tank Trail #9898 
  • Smith Mesa Corral #665 
  • South Benches #56 
  • Bullwater #24 

  Currently the webpages for these trails say little more than where the trail is located.

• Alligator Spring Trail #9926
• Anderson Trail #55
• Bullwater Trail #24
• Burke Spring Trail #35
• Cedar Mesa Trail #13
• Cottonwood Spring Trail #664
• Elbow Springs Trail #9941
• Queens Tank Trail #9898
• Sheridan Mountain Trail #11
• Smith Mesa Corral Trail #665
• South Benches Trail #56
• Tailhoit Mesa Trail #666
• Verde Ranger District

  Located near the geographic center of Arizona, the Verde Ranger District is accessible to visitors from all over the state. Drop a fishing line into the Verde River at one of eight day-use access points or put your canoe in at White Bridge Recreation Area for a popular nine-mile float to Beasley Flat. Explore the site of an old salt mine near Camp Verde, re-create history by following part of General Crook’s military supply route, or book a stay at Sycamore Cabin, which once served as the ranger station for the old Bloody Basin Ranger District. ATV enthusiasts can enjoy off-road riding at Hayfield Draw.

  
  For relief from summer’s heat, follow the winding highway up to Mingus Mountain and camp in the pines at Potato Patch Campground or Mingus Recreation Area; groups of 20 to 100 can reserve Playground Group Campground. Many of the District’s hiking trails are located on Mingus, but it’s also a great place to relax and enjoy panoramic views of the Verde Valley. A bit lower on the mountain, near the cluster of homes known as Cherry, Powell Springs Campground stays open all year.

  
  To escape from the crowds, try a backpacking trip into Pine Mountain or Cedar Bench wildernesses, on the southeastern edge of the District. Bring your own water and be prepared for an abundance of wildlife such as bears, mountain lions, and javelina. For more information, please contact the Verde Ranger District.
   

  Information, permits, interpretive displays, LEED green building with solar panels and monitor, map sales, and free motor vehicle use maps for Prescott, Coconino, and Kaibab National Forests.

• Arnold Mesa Trails

   

  (Squaw Peak/Reimer Road; Verde Ranger District)  Recreation opportunities include hiking, horse riding, OHV riding, and mountain biking.  Trail markers will be added to the map as time allows, and more detailed information will be added to each trail's web page.  For now, the links below provide limited information about the trails in the Arnold Mesa area:

  • Arnold Trail #510
  • Box T Trail #511
  • Chasm Creek Trail #164
  • Cottonwood Trail #9709
  • Squaw Peak Trail #518
  • Tomkins Trail #513

   

• Box T Trail #511
• Cottonwood Trail #9709
• Tomkins Trail #513
• Yavapai Peak Trail #518
• Blowout Wash Trail System

  The Blowout Wash Trail System introduces the user to a high desert hiking experience in the foothills east of Mingus Mountain. Low lying vegetation throughout the trail ensures excellent views of Mingus and the surrounding Verde Valley.

  The Blowout Wash Trail System was first conceptualized in 2008 to provide more recreation opportunities to the communities of Cottonwood, Clarkdale, and Jerome. The Verde Trails & Access Plan (VTAP) was approved in September 2018, and construction of the new non-motorized trail system began in the spring of 2019.

  With efforts from the Forest Service, volunteers and community partners, the system has grown to over 15+ miles with new trails planned or currently in progress. Accessed from Blowout Wash Trailhead near Cottonwood, this system is enjoyed by hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. The system can alternately be accessed by hikers and mountain bikers from the Yavapai College-Verde Valley Campus.

  Please be considerate of other users; slow down and know when to yield the trail. Refrain from using horses and bikes when trails are wet. 

  Camping – See various state and private entities for camping/lodging opportunities near the Blowout Wash Trail System

• Blowout Butte #556
• Blowout Canyon #551
• Bullseye Trail #557
• Campus Trail #559
• Copper Chief Trail #535
• Extra Credit Trail #581
• Fenceline Trail #553
• Flowing Well Trail #580
• Higher Learning #552
• Limestone Trail #554
• Mesquite Hills Trail #558
• Camp Verde Area Trails

  Trails in the area offer opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, horse riding, and OHV riding.  For picnicking, fishing, tubing, boating, and camping opportunities in the area please refer to the Verde River sites list.

  Trails and trailheads near Camp Verde:

  • Black Canyon Trail #114
  • Camp Verde Trail #545
  • Copper Canyon Trailhead
  • Grief Hill Trailhead
  • Grief Hill Trail #153
  • Lower Black Canyon Trail
  • River Trail #517
  • Ryal Canyon Trail # 521
  • Sand Wash Trail # 527

  Hayfield Draw OHV Area has an open area for riding (50" and less) and access to OHV trails in the area.

• Black Canyon Trail #114
• Camp Verde Trail #545
• Copper Canyon Trailhead
• Grief Hill Day Use Area / Trailhead
• Grief Hill Trail #153
• Lower Black Canyon Trail
• River Trail #517
• Ryal Canyon Trail #521
• Sand Wash Trail #527
• Cedar Bench Wilderness

  Trails in the Cedar Bench Wilderness include:

  • Goat Springs Trail #542
  • Lower Cedar Bench Trail #540
  • Chasm Creek Trail #164

  The USFS Wilderness Stewardship brochure explains more about designated Wilderness and how you can become involved in helping care for this precious resource. 

• Chasm Creek Trail #164
• Goat Springs Trail #542
• Lower Cedar Bench Trail #540
• Cherry Area

  Recreational opportunities in the Cherry area include: camping, hiking, mountain biking, horse riding, scenic driving, and OHV riding. Trail markers will be added to the map as time allows.  For now, please use the left-hand navigation bar to find more information about the trails in the area:

  • Ash Creek #9705
  • General Crook #64
  • Medlar Springs #9706
  • Sheep #532
  • Grapevine Gulch Trail #9708

   Thank you for your patience as we continue to improve this site.  

• Ash Creek Trail #9705
• General Crook Trail #64
• Grapevine Gulch Trail #9708
• Medlar Springs Trail #9706
• Sheep Trail #532
• Clarkdale Area

  The Verde Canyon Railroad scenic tour begins and ends in the Town of Clarkdale.  Sob Canyon Trail is in this area. 

• Sob Canyon Trail
• Dugas - Tule Mesa

  Large area geographic area; encompasses riparian habitat to ponderosa pine.  Recreational opportunities include: hiking, mountain biking, horse riding, OHV trail and road riding, dispersed camping, and Sycamore Cabin, a hostoric rental cabin.  Trails in the area include:

  • Chalk Tank Trail #506
  • Cold Water Springs Trail #27
  • Double T Trail
  • Dripping Spring Trail #508
  • Hell Hole Trail #541
  • Oxbow Trail #163
  • Pasture Tank Trail #516
  • Salt Flat Trail #71
  • Short Cut Trail #166
  • Sycamore Trail #503
  • Yellow Jacket Trail #524

  Trails in the Pine Mountain Wilderness are listed separately, and are open to hikers and horse riders only.  

  Trailheads will be added to the map as time allows.  Thank you for your patience as we continue to improve this website.

• Chalk Tank Trail #506
• Cold Water Springs Trail #27
• Double T Trail
• Dripping Spring Trail #508
• Hell Hole Trail #541
• Oxbow Trail #163
• Pasture Tank Trail #516
• Salt Flat Trail #71
• Short Cut Trail #166
• Sycamore Trail #503
• Yellow Jacket Trail #524
• Mingus Mountain

  Located in the cool pines of central Arizona, Mingus Mountain offers a wide range of recreational opportunities including: picnicking, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, camping, fishing, hunting, hang gliding, and paragliding.  Scroll down (below the recreation map) to learn more about the excellent recreational opportunities on Mingus Mountain.

   

  Mingus Mountain Brochure (1.86 MB) NOTE- Brochure Correction: Mingus Mountain Campground and Picnic Site do not have electricity available at this time.

  Mingus Rim Trails Description and Map (563 KB PDF; 8.5” X 11”)

• Ash Canyon Trail #539
• Butterfly Trail #536
• Coleman Trail #108
• Gaddes Trail #110
• Gaddes Two Trail #9037
• Little Yeager Canyon Trail #533
• Middle Trail #537
• North Mingus Trail #105
• Old Dump Trail #530
• Quail Spring Ranch Trail #512
• Rock Springs Trail #514
• Silver Trail #516
• View Point Trail #106
• West Rim Trail #538
• Yeager Cabin Trail #111
• Yeager Canyon Trail #28
• Yeager Mine Trail #501
• Pine Mountain Wilderness

  The southern-most wilderness area on the Prescott National Forest shares a boundary with the Tonto National Forest.  Recreational opportunities include: hiking, backpacking, and horse riding.  Mechanized equipment of any kind is not allowed in wilderness areas.  Trails in the Pine Mountain Wilderness include:

  • Nelson Trail #159
  • Buck Basin Trail #158
  • Pine Flat Trail #165
  • Tule Rim Trail #162
  • Verde Rim Trail #161
  • Willow Springs Trail #12

  The USFS Wilderness Stewardship brochure explains more about designated Wilderness and how you can become involved in helping care for this precious resource. 

• Buck Basin Trail #158
• Nelson Trail #159
• Pine Flat Trail #165
• Pine Mountain Trail #14
• Tule Rim Trail #162
• Verde Rim Trail #161
• Willow Springs Trail #12
• Sycamore Canyon Wilderness

  Established in 1935, this area contains a unique canyon-land environment. The canyon cuts through the Mogollon Rim which marks the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau. It winds for 20 miles along Sycamore Creek and at places stretches 7 miles from rim to rim. Wind and water have exposed 7 geological associations of plants and animals set in a spectacular setting of red sandstone, white limestone, and brown lava. Camping is limited by the often unreliable water sources.

  • There are 13 maintained trails within this wilderness: #52, #54, #61, #66, #68, #117, #9017
  • Sycamore Canyon Wilderness on Wilderness.net

  The USFS Wilderness Stewardship brochure explains more about designated Wilderness and how you can become involved in helping care for this precious resource. 

• Deadman Pocket Trail #117
• Henderson Trail #53
• Packard Trail #66
• R.R. Draw Trail #68
• Sycamore Basin Trail #63
• Yew Thicket Trail #52
• Woodchute Wilderness

  This small wilderness offers relatively easy access and spectacular views of the San Francisco Peaks and panoramic vistas of central Arizona. Created in 1984, the 5,923-acre wilderness ranges in elevation from 5,500 to 7,800 feet. Ponderosa Pine is the dominate overstory species located at the upper elevations which gradually changes to pinon pine and Utah juniper at the lower and relatively drier elevations.

  • There is 1 maintained trail within this wilderness: #102
  • Woodchute Wilderness on Wilderness.net

  Mingus Mountain Brochure (1.86 MB) NOTE- Brochure Correction: Mingus Mountain Campground and Picnic Site do not have electricity available at this time.

  The USFS Wilderness Stewardship brochure explains more about designated Wilderness and how you can become involved in helping care for this precious resource.

• Rick Tank Cutoff Trail #104
• Woodchute Trail #102