Derrick Trail
The trail begins at the eastern end of the campground. Once on the trail, travel until you pass through a gate. When through the gate, make a sharp right turn. Follow this trail past the Derrick Spur Trail #32 junction and onto the Highline Trail #31. An all-day 10-mile loop hike is possible by taking Derrick Trail and Highline Trail, then going north on Highline Trail #31 to Horton Spring: Follow Horton Creek Trail #285 back to Upper Tonto Campground. Both Horton Creek and Tonto Creek have trout.
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
Trail Type
General Information
No motorized vehicles are allowed. Heavy horse travel in the summer. Hikers, yield the right of way to trail stock. Pack it in pack it out. Carry an adequate supply of drinking water. One gallon per person per day is recommended during hot periods. Do not drink untreated water. Giardia, a protozoan, is in many water impoundments and streams. Portions of the trail are rough in places and should be traveled with caution. At the Upper Tonto Campground, park below entrance to gate on the north side: do not block the road.
Getting There
Trailhead/Starting Points
Horton Creek Trailhead located in the Horton Day Use Site: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r03/tonto/recreation/horton
Directions
From Payson, take State Route #260 East approximately 16 miles.
Additional Information
Operated By
Forest Service
