Sycamore Basin Trail #63

Originally used to move cattle and horses, Sycamore Basin Trail #63 is still the main thoroughfare through the 55,000-acre Sycamore Canyon Wilderness. This trail offers spectacular views of Sycamore Canyon and the surrounding red rock bluffs. The lower section of this trail is relatively level through Sycamore Basin at an elevation of 4,500 feet. From the Wilderness boundary, the trail approaches Sycamore Creek at mile 5, and stays either in or close to the canyon bottom until about mile 12, where it junctions with Winter Cabin Trail #70 on the Coconino National Forest. Sycamore Basin Trail #63 ends at this junction. Trail #70 continues northeast for another 5 miles.

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. There is no dependable water along this trail during summer and the canyon can be extremely hot. Mid-summer use by hikers is not recommended.

Printable Trail Description and Map (649 KB PDF; 8.5” X 11”)

At a Glance

Fees:	No
Open Season:	Fall
Usage:	Medium
Closest Towns:	Approximately 1.5 hours from Chino Valley, AZ
Water:	Not available. Surface water should be treated.

General Information

Directions:

Although Sycamore Basin Trail #63 begins about 6 miles east of the trailhead described below, hikers usually begin at the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Boundary, which lies at the end of FR 181. From Chino Valley take Perkinsville Road approximately 23 miles to FR 181. Take FR 181 east about 6 miles to Henderson Flat. Continue southeast for another 5 miles to the trailhead. An alternate approach from Drake is to take FR 492 for 11 miles to Perkinsville Road. Head south on Perkinsville Road 2 miles to FR 181. The latter route is longer, but is paved as far as Drake. FR 181 is suitable for high clearance vehicles.

General Notes:

Connecting trails: #52, #53, #66, #117
Maps:
- USGS Map: 7.5’ quads for Sycamore Basin, Loy Butte, and Sycamore Point
- Prescott National Forest Map, east half
Average hiking time: 6 hours to Trail #70 from FR 181