Coconino National Forest near Payson [Link]
Since it was abandoned in the 1940s, the old road leading to Mack’s Crossing has disintegrated into a precipitous ledge overlooking a gaping gorge carved by East Clear Creek. Hike at a leisurely pace to savor the dramatic beauty of this canyon, whose rough conditions don’t deter brave souls on gear-covered ATVs from careening down its serpentine route.
The downhill trek to the creek begins on the sunny, summer cabin-peppered lip of the Mogollon Rim, passing fossiliferous limestone outcroppings and elegant Arizona walnut trees before rounding a bend where grand views of the waterway 600 feet below grab the spotlight.
Near the creek, thickets of wild roses, alders and exotic wildflowers color the landscape, serving up handy excuses to stop and take in the sights. Although the official trail ends where the road meets the shore of the stream, opportunities for wading, swimming and fishing abound both up and downstream.
HIGHLIGHTS: wildflowers, wild roses, swimmable creek
LENGTH: 4 miles (on trail)
ELEVATION: 6,250-6,860 feet
RATING: moderate
DOG RATING: ***
DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 165 miles one way (2.75 hours)
GETTING THERE: From the junction of AZ 89 and AZ 260 in Payson, go north on 89 past Clint’s Well to milepost 304.5 and turn right onto Enchanted Lane (Forest Road 319). Continue .2 miles to Green Ridge Drive, hang a right and go .5 miles to Juniper Drive. From here, turn right and go a short distance to Cedar Drive and follow it to the “primitive road 137” sign. Park along the road; do not block private driveways.
INFO: Refer to the Coconino National Forest map. You can order one online at www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino/maps/index.shtml.
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