Maxwell Trail #37 - Payson, AZ

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Maxwell Trail #37


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Maxwell Trail #37 starts near the end of FR 81E at the northwest corner of the parking area. The trail switchbacks to the edge of the rim and begins its steep descent into the canyon. Please be sure to stay on the trail in the section of the switchbacks as shortcutting destroys vegetation and aggravates erosion of the trail and surrounding ground cover.

The rocks exposed above the rim are predominately limestone laid down when the area was covered by a shallow sea. Once in the canyon the rock type changes to sandstone, which was also deposited as sediment in an ancient ocean.

The overstory vegetation along the trail consists of Transition Zone species of ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, and Gambel oak. The acorns of the Gambel oak were utilized by Native Americans as a food resource because of their high nutritive value.

As the trail nears the creek, the vegetation representative of a riparian community is encountered including red-osier dogwood, ash, willow, wild rose, canyon grape, box elder and poison ivy (learn to identify and avoid this three-leafed plant).

The quiet pools characteristic of the creek provide habitat for blue gill, round-tailed chub, and suckers. This maintained trail ends at the creek but by bushwhacking and wading it is possible to access areas upstream and downstream of the trail.

With a length of 0.6 miles and an elevation change of about 720 feet, this is considered a strenuous hike. Hikers and equestrians only are permitted on this trail.

Facilities: Maxwell Trail #37 offers a parking area and water along the trail.

Reservations: Maxwell Trail #37 does not require or accept reservations.

Best Time To Visit: Maxwell Trail #37 is recommended from April through October.

Fees: No fees are charged to use this trail.

Accessibility: This trail is not handicapped-accessible.

Rules: This is a Wilderness Area; no mechanized vehicles, including mountain bikes, are allowed. Not suitable for horse traffic.

Directions: To reach Maxwell Trail #37 from Payson: Take Highway 260 west to Highway 87 and head north. At Clints Well, turn northwest onto FH 3 (Lake Mary Road) and drive 7 miles to FR 81. Turn west onto FR 81 and continue for about 3 miles to FR 81E. The trailhead is at the end of this road. High clearance is recommended for the last 2 miles. Roads may be impassable in wet weather.

Address

Coconino National Forest

HC 31, Box 300

Happy Jack, Arizona 86024

Phone
General: (928) 477-2255
Fax: (928) 527-8282

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