Algonquin Trail #225 - Prescott, AZ

eatstayplay.com - Arizona - Algonquin Trail #225

Click here for the EatStayPlay.com Forum!

Algonquin Trail #225

GPS Coordinates: Unknown

What is a geocache? Click here to find about geocaching


	Courtesy of EatStayPlay.com

Algonquin Trail #225 lies within the Castle Creek Wilderness and offers panoramic views of this area. The name was acquired from the Algonquin mine established in the early 1900s near Hell's Hole. The trail passes the mine location. It is located in the southern end of the Bradshaw Mountains, so-named for an early area miner.

The Bradshaw Mountain Range is walled by dark metamorphic rock over 1.8 billion years old, intruded by younger igneous granites (tan in color). The igneous granites have eroded into the huge boulders typical of the area.

From the south trailhead at 6,800 feet, the trail begins a gradual descent. At mile 0.75 there is a campsite ideal for about 8 people and 4 horses. The trail from there continues downhill through Ponderosa pine, soon changing to chaparral. Two abandoned cabins can be seen from the trail; just beyond them is a campsite suitable for 4-5 persons and 2 horses. The trail from here to Algonquin mine is not maintained, and hikers need to be particularly cautious.

Algonquin Trail #225 intersects Horsethief Canyon Trail #30 in Horsethief Canyon where there is a seasonal stream. The Algonquin mine at 4,600 feet is just 0.5 miles from here. The trail continues within the canyon for 0.5 miles, past the headwaters of Poland Creek. It then begins the final ascent for 2.5 miles to the north trailhead on FR 259 up a steep switchback grade. This portion of the trail was originally used to haul ore on pack animals. As you approach the north trailhead, the broad vistas of the Verde Valley to the northeast, and Pine Mountain to the east come into view.

At 5 miles long, with a total elevation change of about 2,500 feet, this trail may be considered of moderate difficulty.

Facilities: Unknown

Best Time To Visit: Algonquin Trail #225 is open year-round. However, it can be hot in summer, and heavy snow is possible in winter.

Fees: This trail is free to use.

Accessibility: This trail has no handicap access.

Rules: No mechanized equipment (including bicycles) is permitted on this trail.

Directions: To reach the south trailhead of Algonquin Trail #225 from Prescott, the best route is by way of Mayer, particularly in winter. Take Main St. through the town of Mayer, continuing east to the junction with Antelope Creek Rd. Continue southeast on this road for about 9 miles to Cordes. At the road junction in Cordes, take FR 259 to Crown King. At Crown King take FR 259A south for 0.5 miles to the junction with FR 52. Continue on FR 52 for 2.2 miles south-southeast to the Algonquin Trail turnoff. The trailhead begins about 100 yards north of the turnoff. From Phoenix or I-17, exit at the Bumblebee Interchange. Take the dirt road north to Bumblebee and then continue on FR 259 to Crown King.

The north trailhead is best approached from Cleator and I-17, after which the road becomes dirt but is still suitable for all vehicles. Exit I-17 at the Bumblebee Interchange; go north to Bumble Bee and continue on FR 259 to Cleator. From there continue for 9.5 miles southwest on FR 259 to the Poland Vista Point, about 2.4 miles northeast of Crown King. Parking here will accommodate 3 cars or 1 car with horse trailer. The unmarked trailhead begins 100 feet southeast of this parking area.

Map: Click here for a map to Algonquin Trail #225

Reservations: Reservations are not needed or accepted for Algonquin Trail #225.

Attractions Near
Algonquin Trail #225

Horsethief Canyon Trail #30
Prescott National Forest

Address

Prescott National Forest

344 S. Cortez St.

Prescott, Arizona 86303

Phone
General: (928) 443-8000

Back to Prescott