Parsons Trail No. 144

The hike up the Parsons Trail is a pleasant stroll along a cool, clear desert stream set in a magnificent red rock canyon. The trail leads through the lower reaches of this wilderness through a riparian area rich in plant and animal life. Songbirds flit through the tall cottonwoods and thick mesquite bosques. At a number of points additional springs flow from the canyon walls through gardens of columbine and watercress. Colorful cliffs that are a unique mix of dark columnar basalt, red sandstone, and buff colored limestone enclose the lush green of the oasis. The trail leads 4 miles to a large pool called Parson Springs where it surfaces from the underground course it has followed through the majority of the canyon. Up the canyon from the spring, water flow only occurs during snowmelt and after summer monsoons.

The steepest part of the trail is the descent from the trailhead, dropping several hundred feet to the canyon bottom. The rest of the trail is relatively easy in regards to slope. Prepare for multiple creek crossings on this trail, ranging from shoe-wetting to impassable depending on time of year, weather, and water flow. While refreshing in the summer and a welcomed challenge for those seeking a true wilderness experience, these crossings can be dangerous and flooding can be rapid and unexpected during rainy periods.

Wilderness areas are rare, wild places set aside by Congress where the land is allowed to retain its natural state, serving as a natural haven for humans to escape modern civilization and for nature to be itself. To help minimize human impacts in wilderness, motorized and mechanized equipment are prohibited by law, including bicycles, strollers, carts, and remote-control aircraft, and drones. We also ask that visitors practice Leave No Trace ethics.

This trail is part of the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Southeast Trails. The lower, southern part of Sycamore Canyon Wilderness is managed by the Red Rock Ranger District.

At a Glance