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Watershed Trail #299
Watershed Trail #299 begins at Senator Highway and climbs several hundred feet over an open scrub oak covered hillside to Deer Lick Spring. Among pinyon pine and juniper is an old concrete trough that may have water in it for horses. After leaving the spring the trail enters a mixed forest of ponderosa pine and Gambel oak as it continues toward its junction with Seven-Mile Gulch Trail #9854. Trail #299 turns south, rising sharply to Spruce Ridge. At nearly 6,900 feet this is the highest point along the trail and as one might expect, the views are spectacular. Bill Williams Mountain and the San Francisco Peaks can be seen to the north. Maverick Mountain and Mount Tritle are to the south. Trail #299 takes it name from this high ridge, which marks the division between the Bannon Creek and Lynx Creek watersheds.
This trail is open to hikers, horseback riders, mountain bicyclists, and motorized vehicles less than 50” wide. Please be considerate of other users—slow down and know when to yield the trail. Refrain from using horses and wheeled vehicles when the trail is wet.
Printable Trail Description and Map (790 KB PDF; 8.5” X 11”)
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 Senator Highway 4.1 miles to the trailhead on the left. Parking is good.
To reach the upper trailhead, continue 0.9 miles past the trailhead described above to Forest Road 52A. Turn left and travel 1.6 miles to the trailhead on the left. Parking is fair. Road conditions are suitable for all vehicles.
General Notes:
- Connecting trails: Seven Mile Gulch Trail #9854
-
Maps:
- USGS Map: 7.5’ quads for Groom Creek and Prescott\
- Prescott National Forest Map, west half
- Average hiking time: 2 hours, one way
Activities
Mountain Biking
- Mountain bicyclists may prefer to start their trip at the upper trailhead on Spruce Mountain Road (FR 52A).
| Difficulty Level: | Moderate |
|---|
Day Hiking
- An attractive hike up to Spruce Ridge.
| Difficulty Level: | Moderate |
|---|
Horse Riding
- An attractive ride up to Spruce Ridge. There may be water for horses at Deer Lick Spring.
| Difficulty Level: | Moderate |
|---|
OHV Trail Riding
- This trail is open to motorized vehicles less than or equal to 50” wide.
| Difficulty Level: | Moderate |
|---|
Location
