| Facilities: There are no facilities provided at Highwater Trail. Gas, food, and lodging can be found in Payson. Reservations: Reservations are not needed or accepted at Highwater Trail. Best Time To Visit: Highwater Trail is open spring through fall, depending on the weather. Fees: No fee is charged. Accessibility: Unknown Rules: Neither motorized or mechanized transport are permitted on this trail. The maximum group size is 15; the maximum amount of saddle or pack animals of any kind is 15 per group. Directions: To reach Highwater Trail north end from Payson, travel north on State Highway 87 (the Beeline Highway) 19 miles to Strawberry. Turn left at the Strawberry Lodge on Forest Road 428 for 5 miles; turn left on Forest Road 427 for 6/10 miles, then right turn on Forest Road 194. Continue down Forest Road 194 for 5 miles to the trailhead. High-clearance or 4WD vehicles are recommended. Travel south on the Verde River Trail to its intersection with Highwater Trail. To reach Highwater Trail south end from Payson, travel west on Main Street (which becomes Forest Road 406) toward the East Verde. This road ends at the trailhead after 12 miles (1 1/2 miles beyond the City Creek Trailhead). This road is very steep in spots, and 4WDs are recommended for hauling horses. A private road under permit to a rancher extends into the wilderness area, however no other vehicles are allowed beyond this point. Stock water is available. The Bull Spring and Saddle Ridge Trails are accessed approximately 3 miles down the private road. Travel west on Bull Spring Trail to Wet Bottom Trail. Continue west on Wet Bottom Trail to its intersection with Highwater Trail. | |
