Horton Creek

This is a great hike east of Payson just below the Mogollon Rim.  The trail is easy to follow, fairly flat except for a gradual hill towards the turn around point of the hike and follows a beautiful creek known as Horton Creek.  The trail is out and back, with the trail leading to the head of Horton Creek where the spring literally comes right out of the side of the mountain.  The spring is 3.3 miles from the trailhead.  This is a great hike to do on a hot summer day as the trail stays within 200 yards of the creek the entire trail, except the hill at the end of the hike.  There are large trees providing shade the majority of the hike. 

The trail is located 15 miles east of Payson on Hwy 260.  Turn left on Tonto Creek Road (FR 289) and drive 1 mile to the upper Tonto Campground.  Do not stop at the first campground on your left.  Keep driving to the second campground on your right.  Pass the entrance to the campground, cross a cement bridge and park on your left in the signed parking area.  The trail begins back across the bridge and up the road toward the campground.  You will see signs directing you to the trail.

The trail starts by dropping you down into a dry creek bed.  Follow the trail for half a mile next to the the dry creek bed.  Don't worry you will come to the water soon.  The trail will follow next to the creek for the most part.  A few spur trails will branch of to your right heading down to the creek.  These are worth taking as several spots on the creek are incredibly beautiful.  Beautiful lush green trees, yellow flowers and small water falls make this area a little paradise. 

The trail continues up towards the rim with the last mile consisting of a gradual hill switch backing its way up the base of the rim.  This is not a difficult hill and can be managed by most people, including young children.  At  the top of the hill the trail intersects with the Highline Trail.  Turn right and follow the trail for about 200 yards to the Spring.  This is a great spot and several people had backpacked and were camping in the area.  Once you reach the Spring this is your turnaround point and it's an easy hike back down the trail to your car.

I would recommend this hike to any hiking level.  Small children will enjoy playing in the water, as will adults such as myself.  The trail was fairly busy the day I hiked it on a Saturday.  But not overly crowded.  Definitely put this on your list of hikes to do in Rim Country.

Length:  6. 6 miles out and back
Elevation Gain: 1,183 feet
Difficulty: Easy- Recommended for families with small children
Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours with a lot of time used to enjoy the creek and the spring at the end of the trail.
Directions:  See narrative- passenger car