Willow Crossing Trail #38

Willow Crossing Trail #38 - Payson, AZ

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Willow Crossing Trail #38

GPS Coordinates: Unknown

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Willow Crossing Trail #38 starts at the end of FR 122A in a park-like setting of mature ponderosa pine. The trail heads northwest following the west side of a small drainage before descending into Willow Valley.

Vegetation found along this stretch of trail includes ponderosa pine, locust, and Gamble oak. Once in the drainage of Willow Valley, the vegetation consists of more riparian species, including poison ivy. Learn to identify this three-leaved plant. Other riparian plants in the drainage include wild grape and willow.

The rugged canyon of Willow Valley provides the required habitat for many species of wildlife, including the reclusive black bear. Look for signs of black bear activity such as torn-apart logs and overturned rocks.

The trail climbs gradually out of the canyon through an area of ponderosa pine and follows along the south side of a fence line to the trailhead on FR 9366M. Hikers need to watch for the rock cairns that mark the trail throughout this stretch.

With a length of 1.3 miles and an elevation change of about 270 feet, this trail is considered easy. Hikers and equestrians are welcome on this trail.

Facilities: A parking area is available at Willow Crossing Trail #38.

Best Time To Visit: Willow Crossing Trail #38 is recommended from April through October.

Fees: No fees are charged to use this trail.

Accessibility: This trail is not handicapped-accessible.

Rules: Pets are allowed. Trailside water must be purified.

Directions: To reach Willow Crossing Trail #38 from Payson: Take Highway 260 west to Highway 87 and head north to Clints Well. Turn left onto Lake Mary Road, and drive 3 miles to Forest Road 196 and turn west. Continue about 2 miles to Forest Road 122A and turn north. The southern trailhead is at the end of this road. Be sure to close the gate at Pecks Point Tank.

To access the northern trailhead from Clints Well, drive 7 miles, and turn west onto Forest Road 81. Continue about 3 miles, and turn south onto Forest Road 81E. Drive 1.25 miles and veer left onto Forest Road 9366M. The trailhead is about 0.3 miles down the road on the left.

Map: Click here for a map to Willow Crossing Trail #38

Reservations: Willow Crossing Trail #38 does not require or accept reservations.

Address

Coconino National Forest

HC 31, Box 300

Happy Jack, Arizona 86024

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

Website