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Henderson Trail #53
Henderson Trail #53 is used mainly for horseback access to the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness. Hikers entering the canyon usually drive to the junction of Trail #53 and Sycamore Basin Trail #63 using Forest Road 181. Horseback riders, however, usually start their journey into the canyon at Henderson Flat where both corrals and water for horses are available. Henderson Trail #53 is a level trail that traverses below the red rock cliffs of Sycamore Canyon. The lower third of the trail is the most scenic.
Portions of this trail lie within the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness where 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. Summer travelers should prepare for hot, dry conditions. Water is available for horses at Sycamore Tank, about 0.5 miles south of the junction with Trail #63.
Printable Trail Description and Map (647 KB PDF; 8.5” X 11”)
At a Glance
| Fees: | No |
|---|---|
| Open Season: | Year Round |
| Usage: | Light |
| Closest Towns: | Approximately 1 hour from Chino Valley, AZ |
| Water: | Not available. Surface water should be treated. |
General Information
Directions:From Chino Valley take Perkinsville Road approximately 23 miles to FR 181. Take FR 181 east about 7.5 miles to Henderson Flat and the trailhead for TR 53. Hikers can continue to drive east on FR 181 (high clearance vehicles only) for 5 miles to where the road ends at the Wilderness boundary and the junction with Trail #63. Taking horses by trailer on FR 181 any farther than Henderson Flat is not recommended. Road conditions are dirt, but suitable for all vehicles as far as Henderson Flat.
General Notes:
- Connecting trails: #61, #63
-
Maps:
- USGS Map: 7.5’ quad for Sycamore Basin
- Prescott National Forest Map, east half
- Average hiking time: 2 hours, one way
Activities
Day Hiking
- This trail accesses the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness and passes through red rock country.
| Difficulty Level: | Easy |
|---|
Backpacking
- Connect with other trails, namely Sycamore Basin Trail #63, for an extended backpacking trip within the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness.
| Difficulty Level: | Easy |
|---|
Horse Riding
- This trail provides horseback access to the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness for single- or multiple-day rides.
| Difficulty Level: | Easy |
|---|
Alerts & Warnings
- Toilets temporarily CLOSED at Lynx Lake North Shore
- Intermittent Road Closures on MIngus Mountain
- 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
- Drones Use on Forest Service Lands