Hiking 

The trail conditions in the Rim Country can range from easy to very difficult.  A trailing experience can include anything from the fulfilling opposition of steep grades and heavy brush, to the exciting discovery of spectacular scenic views and peaceful seclusion from the pressures and congestion of society.

Exploring a trail in the forest can be both relaxing and exhilarating, and sometimes even dangerous. With summer temperatures averaging in the mid 90s throughout most of the forest, no trail adventures should be made without the appropriate precautionary measures. Make sure that you have an adequate supply of drinking water, as well as a general idea of the time needed to complete the trip. It’s also a good idea to take someone with you. You can run into trouble on any adventure and sometimes the best defense is a partner or group. Remember to be safe when trailing and avoid unnecessary danger in all forms.

Before you plan your trip,

be sure to check for forest closures and restrictions from the Tonto National Forest Service.

Payson Area Trails System

The Payson Area Trails System (PATS) is an interconnecting, community-wide trails system between the Town of Payson and Forest Service.  The in-progress trail system will provide linkages to activity and interest generators, and connect logically to origin points, such as residential areas, parks and trail head parking lots and access points.

American Gulch Trail

American Gulch Trail North Distance – 0.6 mi. Access – Graff Trailhead at West end of Graff Rd. American Gulch Trail South Distance – 1 mi. Access – North of Doll Baby Ranch Rd, West of Sewer Plant

Boulders Loop Trail & Cypress Trail

Boulders Loop Trail             
2.4 miles around entire Loop             
Level of Difficulty – Moderate

 Cypress Trail                     
2 miles from trail access off of Granite Dells Road to Boulders Loop
Level of Difficulty – Moderate 

Event Center Trail

Event Center / Gila County Trail Distance – 3.7 mi. to Peach Orchard Trailhead Access – Southwest corner of Event Center at end of Green Valley Parkway.

Goat Camp Trail

Goat Camp Trail Access Distance – 0.2 mi. Access : North of Tyler Parkway Area of Interest Future archaeological interpretive park. Connects to Houston Trail.

Houston Trail and Houston Loop

Houston Trail Distance – 4.2 mi. from Horse Camp to Houston Loop Access : Horse Camp (Campers Only) Houston Mesa Trailhead

Houston Loop Trail Entire Loop – 3.6 mi. Houston Mesa Trailhead to Houston Loop – 3 mi. Mayfied Canyon Rd. to Houston Loop – 0.3 mi. FR 433 to Houston Loop – 0.9 mi.

Monument Peak Loop Trail

Monument Peak Loop Trail Distance – 3 mi. Trailhead 3.3 mi. east on Granite Dells Rd.

Round Valley Trail

Round Valley Trail Phoenix St. to Sonic Distance – 4.4 mi. Access – 1100 block of E. Phoneix St.

Download the PATS Map

Click here to download the Payson Area Trails System map. 

Hiking & Biking Around The Rim

The Tonto National Forest and surrounding wilderness areas have a collection of nearly 900 miles of National Forest System Trails. Their primary purpose is to provide a variety of opportunities for hikers, bikers, and equestrians to enjoy the beauty and challenge of nature.

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Information

Phone | (928) 472-5110
Email | tourism@paysonaz.gov
1000 W. Country Club Dr.
Payson, AZ 85541
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CONTACT US
Phone | (928) 472-5110
1000 W. Country Club Dr.
Payson, AZ 85541

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