Yew Thicket Trail #52

Yew Thicket Trail #52 starts on the Kaibab National Forest in open stands of ponderosa pine and pinyon-juniper woodland. This portion of the trail follows an old road bed across the canyon rim. At its junction with Lonesome Pocket Trail #61, this trail narrows to a footpath. Here the trail is at its most scenic, as well as its most difficult, as it descends a steep canyon through red rock bluffs. Yew Thicket Trail #52 continues southwest along a side canyon as it approaches its end at Sycamore Basin Trail #63. Trail #63 is the main thoroughfare through the 55,000-acre Sycamore Canyon Wilderness, and presents excellent opportunities for backpacking in this rugged, remote area.

This trail lies within the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness. Motor vehicles and the use of any mechanized equipment, including bicycles, are prohibited. Wilderness is an important resource and national heritage—please, leave no trace. The lower portion of the trail is can be extremely hot in summer with little air movement in the canyon. Portions of this trail are steep and recommended for experienced horses/mules only.

Printable Trail Description and Map (555 KB PDF; 8.5” X 11”)

At a Glance

Fees:	No
Open Season:	Spring
Usage:	Light
Closest Towns:	Approximately 1 hour from Chino Valley, AZ
Water:	Not available. Surface water should be treated.

General Information

Directions:

To access this trail from the Prescott National Forest, use the trailhead for Trail #61. From Chino Valley take Perkinsville Road approximately 23 miles to FR 181. Turn right onto FR 181 and travel east about 7.5 miles to Henderson Flat and the trailhead for Trail #61. Road conditions are paved, then dirt. This portion of FR 181 is suitable for all vehicles in fair weather.

General Notes:

Connecting trails: #61, #63
Maps:
- USGS Map: 7.5’ quad for Sycamore Basin
- Prescott National Forest Map, east half
- Kaibab National Forest Map, Williams-Chalendar-Tusayan Districts
Average hiking time: 4-5 hours, one way

Activities

Day Hiking

A long trail through the rugged Sycamore Canyon Wilderness, ideal for extended backcountry travel.

Backpacking

A long trail through the rugged Sycamore Canyon Wilderness, ideal for extended backcountry travel.

Difficulty Level:	Intermediate to Difficult

Horse Riding

A long trail through the rugged Sycamore Canyon Wilderness, ideal for extended backcountry travel. Portions of this trail are extremely steep—use experienced horses/mules only.