Sycamore Trail

Current Conditions

Rocky and overgrown. Upper section may be difficult to navigate due to tall grasses, lack of annual maintenance, and past fire activity. Users should come prepared for a remote backcountry experience that will require sharp navigation skills.

From FR 421, the trail climbs steadily through lower Sonoran Desert and riparian vegetation up the arroyo formed by Sycamore Creek. It turns northward and continues to climb along a tributary, passing through chaparral, semi-desert grassland and juniper woodland. The trail tops out on the El Oso Divide and then descends to its end at Edwards Park in a stand of large Ponderosa Pines.

Specific Trail Information

Trail Number

Trail Type

Standard/Terra Trail — A trail that has a surface consisting predominantly of the ground and that is designed and managed to accommodate use on that surface.

General Information

Official mileage listed as 5.8 miles however the upper 3 miles will be difficult to navigate.

Dispose of waste properly, leave what you find, pack it in pack it out. Carry an adequate supply of drinking water. One gallon per person per day is recommended during hot periods.

Getting There

Trailhead/Starting Points

Small pull off located near the end of Forest Road #421: 111°18'18"W 33°48'10"N

Directions

East End: Forest Road (FR) 421: From Tonto Basin on to FR 421, drive 2.4 miles to the trail terminus on the north side of the road (4-wheel drive vehicles are recommended).

West End: Forest Road (FR) 422A: From the Four Peaks Road/FR 143, drive north 10 miles on FR 422 (4-wheel-drive vehicles only). The trail begins from the right (east) side of the road in Edwards Park.

CONNECTING TRAILS - None: However, Park Trail 66 is approximately 1 mile north on FR 422. The Arizona Trail is approximately 1 mile away southwest. Denton Trail 69 is approximately 0.1 mile away, accessible by FR 421.