Deadman Pocket Trail #117

Deadman Pocket Trail #117 begins on the Kaibab National Forest in ponderosa pines. The trail quickly enters juniper woodland as it loses elevation on its way south towards Sycamore Canyon. Closer to the canyon rim, the ground is matted with tangled scrub, grasses, and a multitude of wildflowers. Watch for elk and deer among the vegetation. Although there are some extremely steep sections, the view of Sycamore Canyon as the trail descends below the rim is stunning and well worth the challenging hike. Plunging deeper into brilliant redrock country, this trail stays in juniper and chaparral. Cedars join the mix as the trail approaches aptly named Cedar Creek. The Deadman Pocket Trail #117 is relatively level where it passes through the canyon bottom. The trail ends at its junction with Sycamore Basin Trail #63, which continues into the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness for several miles in either direction.

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. Portions of the trail above the canyon rim may be hard to follow where summer grasses obscure the tread. This rugged canyon country is home to several species of rattlesnakes. Watch your step and never handle wildlife. The canyon bottom can be extremely hot and dry during the summer months. Please prepare accordingly.

At a Glance

Fees:	No
Open Season:	Year Round
Usage:	Light
Closest Towns:	Approximately 2.5 hours from Chino Valley, AZ
Water:	Not available. Surface water should be treated.

General Information

Directions:

Deadman Pocket Trail #117 begins on the Kaibab National Forest. From the Chino Valley Ranger District, travel north on Hwy 89 for 18.6 miles to Drake Road. Turn right onto Drake Road and go 0.3 miles to FR 492. Turn left on FR 492 and go 0.5 miles. Turn right to stay on FR 492. Go 1.3 miles and turn right again to stay on FR 492. Go 0.2 miles and turn left to stay on FR 492. Continue 1.9 miles as FR 492 becomes CO 71. After 4 miles, CO 71 becomes CO 73. Continue 16.1 miles on CO 73 to FR 354. Turn right onto FR 354 and proceed 6.6 miles to FR 105. Turn left onto FR 105 and go 3.1 miles to FR 127. Turn right onto FR 127 and travel 1.9 miles to FR 126 (sign says 155). Turn right onto FR 126 and drive 0.6 miles to the trailhead on the left. Parking is good, with room for horse trailers on the side of the road. High clearance is necessary on FR 127 and FR 126. 4WD recommended in wet conditions.

General Notes:

Connecting trails: #63
Maps:
- USGS Map: 7.5’ quad for Sycamore Basin
- Prescott National Forest Map, east half
Average hiking time: : 3 hours, one way

Activities

Day Hiking

A challenging out-and-back hike in the remote and rugged Sycamore Canyon Wilderness.

Difficulty Level:	Difficult

Backpacking

Deadman Pocket Trail #117 can be paired with Sycamore Basin Trail #63 for an extended backpacking trip through the remote and rugged Sycamore Canyon Wilderness.

Difficulty Level:	Difficult

Horse Riding

A scenic ride in the rugged and remote Sycamore Canyon. Please note that sections of the trail are very steep and dependable water is scarce, increasing the difficulty of horse travel.