MAZATZAL WILDERNESS

Hit the trails south of Payson for remote hikes that lead to secluded canyons.

In this wilderness area, the Tonto and Coconino National Forests meet in a zone where rugged deserts to the south transition to lush pine forests to the north. Find nearly 250 miles of designated hiking trails in the Mazatzal Mountains and surrounding pine-studded peaks that reach elevations of nearly 8,000 feet. Deep canyons are carved into the wilderness area by the Verde River, one of only two Wild & Scenic Rivers in the state.

Head into the Backcountry

Most of the 40 trails here are too rough for mountain bikes and horseback riders. Hikers can start with the Barnhardt Trail, a 6-mile romp with long uphill grades and a waterfall payoff at the midway point. Serious hikers can put in nearly 30 miles on the Verde River Trail, much of which runs along the scenic waterway. The short but strenuous Deadman Trail climbs more than 2,000 feet in less than 2 miles and the South Fork Trail runs 7.5 miles through a shady canyon. The length of trails and number of connector trails in the area make this a great place for backpacking and primitive camping trips.

Find More Destination Hikes

Natural wonders abound along the Mogollon Rim. At Fossil Creek — Arizona’s other Wild & Scenic River — the Bob Bear Trail descends 4 miles into a remote canyon that boasts some of the prettiest swimming holes in the Southwest. Experienced hikers can also access passages of the Arizona National Scenic Trail that pass through the Mazatzal Wilderness Area. Hike 24 miles along the Mazatzal Divide just below the ridgeline of the mountains. This stretch of the Arizona Trail is roughly the mid-point of the 800-mile trek across the state.

Visit Payson

Phoenix-area visitors can zip over to Bartlett Lake to see the western face of the Mazatzals off in the distance. But most visitors head up Highway 87 and stop short of Payson to explore the eastern slopes of the mountain. After a day hike, head into Payson to shop, see historic sites or hit the slots at Mazatzal Casino in one of the larger cities along Arizona’s Mogollon Rim. The Rim Country Museum and Zane Grey Cabin present excellent collections of pioneer artifacts and many personal items that belonged to the famous writer and adventurer, including his typewriter and hunting gear.