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Groom Creek Loop Trail #307
Groom Creek Loop Trail #307 is one of the most attractive trails on the Prescott National Forest, offering a rewarding hike through the area’s forested high country. This trail passes through idyllic stands of ponderosa pine and Gambel oak as it climbs to the top of Spruce Mountain. While there are no actual spruce trees on the peak, there are Douglas fir and a number of other cone-bearing species that thrive in the cool mountain conditions. A picnic area, a vault toilet, and a lookout tower are located at the top of the trail. Hikers may visit the lookout tower when it is staffed, usually throughout the summer months. The views, of course, are stunning.
Due to its proximity to Groom Creek Horse Camp, an equestrian camping facility just across from the trailhead, this trail is particularly popular with horseback riders. Please call 928-443-8000 for more information, or to make reservations.
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. Dogs must be on leashes; please clean up after pets. There are restrooms at the trailhead and at Spruce Mountain Lookout. Extensive re-routes were completed in 2010—please stay on the designated trail to help with rehabilitation efforts.
At a Glance
| Fees: | No |
|---|---|
| Open Season: | Spring |
| Usage: | Heavy |
| Closest Towns: | Approximately 15 minutes from Prescott, AZ |
| Water: | Not available. Surface water should be treated. |
General Information
Directions:From its intersection with Gurley Street, travel south on Mt. Vernon Avenue for 6.4 miles as it becomes Senator Highway and passes through the community of Groom Creek. The trailhead is on the left-hand side of the road and is well signed. Groom Creek Horse Camp, also signed, is on the opposite side of the road. There is adequate parking for ten or more cars and six trailer units. The road conditions are paved.
General Notes:
- Connecting trails: Isabella Trail #377
-
Maps:
- USGS Maps: 7.5’ quad for Groom Creek
- Prescott National Forest Map, west half
- Average hiking time: 5 hours, round trip
Activities
Mountain Biking
- This popular trail traverses moderate terrain through magnificent ponderosa pine forest.
| Difficulty Level: | Intermediate to Difficult |
|---|
Day Hiking
- This popular trail meanders through the forested mountains near the small community of Groom Creek
| Difficulty Level: | Intermediate to Difficult |
|---|
Horse Riding
- This trail is very popular with horseback riders due to its proximity to the Groom Creek Horse Camp.
| Difficulty Level: | Intermediate to Difficult |
|---|
Alerts & Warnings
- Intermittent Road and Recreation Site Closures in Granite Basin and on MIngus
- Lynx Lake & Verde River Annual Bald Eagle Closures 12/1 - 6/30
- There are currently NO FIRE RESTRICTIONS in effect
- Perkinsville Bridge Area Special Closure
- Target Type restrictions implemented across the Prescott NF
- Temporary Camping Restrictions along Highway 260 and Salt Mine Road Corridor
- Drones Use on Forest Service Lands
Location
