Tonto National Forest near Payson [PDF Link]
Situated in the cool streamside forests beneath the Mogollon Rim, this hike is the perfect respite from the Valley’s heat. In summer, the woods are thick with wild roses, canyon grape and fields of ferns that attract myriad butterflies and bees. Much of the trail parallels Horton Creek, where shore birds including cranes and egrets can be heard squawking and seen diving for fish. At the 3.5-mile point, go right at the Highline Trail junction to visit Horton Spring, where icy water gushes from a moss-covered escarpment spilling into the creek below.
HIGHLIGHTS: wild roses, butterflies
LENGTH: 8 miles round trip
ELEVATION: 5,360-6,420 feet
RATING: moderate
DOG RATING: ***
DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 108 miles one way (1.8 hours)
GETTING THERE: From the junction of AZ 87 and AZ 260 in Payson, go right (east) and continue on 260 for just under 17 miles (near milepost 268), turn left onto Fish Hatchery Road (Forest Road 289) and go 1 mile to the parking area. From the parking area, hike back down the road, cross the bridge and follow the road to Horton Campground and the signed trailhead.
INFO: Payson Ranger District, 602-225-5200,
www.fs.fed.us/r3/tonto/recreation/rogs/hikingtrail/prd/HortonCreekTrail285.pdf
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