Mescal Trail #547

Mescal Trail #547 begins at Forest Road 338 and climbs a gentle grade that zigzags through a significant mountain drainage lined with oak and ponderosa. Rocky mountain irises grow up in isolated pockets along the trail, as well as patches of rose and other wildflowers. This is an area of geologic diversity, home to limestone formed in ancient seas, volcanic basalt, and numerous examples of other rock types. Mingus Mountain and the surrounding territory saw extensive mining activity in the late 1800s and early 1900s. This history is written across the landscape as old roads and clearings cut for home sites or temporary camps which can be seen along the trail.

Historic artifacts, where they lie, tell a story. Once they are moved, a piece of the past is destroyed forever. Please respect cultural resources and leave what you find.

Mingus Mountain Brochure (1.86 MB)

Printable Trail Description and Map (593 KB PDF; 8.5” X 11”)

At a Glance

Fees:	No
Open Season:	Spring - Fall
Usage:	Medium
Closest Towns:	Approximately 1 hour from I-17; 30 minutes from Chino Valley, AZ
Water:	Not available. Surface water should be treated.

General Information

Directions:

From its intersection with Interstate 17, travel 12.2 miles on Hwy 260 to the junction with Hwy 89A. Turn left and go 14 miles, through Jerome, to FR 338 on the left. If you reach the Mingus Summit, you have gone 2.8 miles too far. Travel 0.1 miles on FR 338 to the trailhead on the right. Parking is good.

From the junction of Hwy 89/89A in Chino Valley, travel 18.3 miles on Hwy 89A to the Mingus Summit. Continue on Hwy 89A for another 2.8 miles to FR 338 on the right. Travel 0.1 miles to the trailhead on the right.

The road is paved to FR 338, which is suitable for high clearance vehicles.

General Notes:

Connecting trails: Bug Hollow Trail #548
Maps:
- USGS Map: 7.5’ quad for Hickey Mountain
- Prescott National Forest Map, east half
Average hiking time: 30 minutes, one way