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Clark Spring Trail #40
Trail Description: Clark Spring Trail #40 begins in open chaparral near Granite Basin Lake and follows a nearly straight course to the southwest. It then climbs continuously through ponderosa pine forest to the Clark Spring area. From here, the trail climbs higher through ponderosa, pinyon pine, and Gambel oak to the pass between Two Rock Mountain and Little Granite Mountain where it meets Little Granite Mountain Trail #37. There are good views of the San Francisco Peaks.
Notice: Visitors are asked to be alert and stay on existing trails when recreating on Granite Mountain as the area recovers from the Doce Fire of 2013. Soil erosion has occurred on portions of the trails, thus exposing more rock, and cross-country travel increases the possibility of encountering rolling rocks, stump and root holes, falling trees, and loose soils from rains.
The Clark Springs Trail #40 provides campers at Granite Basin Recreation Area with a day trip along an attractive riparian corridor to Clark Spring.
This trail is open to hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bicyclists. Please be considerate of other users—slow down and know when to yield the trail. Refrain from using horses and bikes when the trail is wet. Restrooms are available at the trailhead.
Printable Resources:
-
Trail Description and Map (760 KB; Black and White; 8.5” X 11”
- Granite Basin Recreation Area Brochure (120 KB; Color; 8.5” X 17”)
At a Glance
| Fees: |
|
|---|---|
| Open Season: | Year Round |
| Usage: | Medium |
| Closest Towns: | Approximately 25 minutes from Prescott, AZ |
| Water: | Water available at Trailhead. Surface water should be treated. |
General Information
Directions:From its intersection with Willow Creek Road, travel northwest on Iron Springs Road for 3 miles. Turn right onto Granite Basin Road and proceed 3.5 miles to the Metate Parking Area on the left. There is parking for 20 vehicles. Road conditions are paved.
Horse trailers must park at the Cayuse Equestrian Trailhead.
General Notes:
- Connecting trails: White Rock Spring Trail #39, Balancing Rock Trail #349
-
Maps:
- USGS Map: 7.5’ quad for Iron Springs
- Prescott National Forest Map, west half
- Average hiking time: 45 minutes, one way
Activities
Mountain Biking
- This trail provides access to other Granite Mountain trails from the Granite Basin Recreation Area. Please note that bicycles are prohibited in the nearby Granite Mountain Wilderness.
| Difficulty Level: | Moderate |
|---|
Day Hiking
- This trail provides campers at the Granite Basin Recreation Area with a day trip along an attractive riparian corridor to Clark Spring.
| Difficulty Level: | Moderate |
|---|
Horse Riding
- An attractive ride along a riparian corridor to Clark Spring. Horse trailers must park at Cayuse Equestrian Trailhead.
| Difficulty Level: | Moderate |
|---|
Location
