The Highline Trail #31 is a 55-mile National Recreation Trail running below Arizona's Mogollon Rim, the 2,000-foot escarpment that divides the high Colorado Plateau from the lower Sonoran Desert. Established in 1870 as a homesteader highway and designated a National Recreation Trail in 1979, this demanding point-to-point route shares over 17 miles with the 800-mile Arizona National Scenic Trail (Passage 26).
The trail gives experienced backpackers solitude, varied scenery, and a real physical test. You climb in and out of deep canyons that hold perennial streams and riparian zones, then work up stark ridges with wide views of rim canyons, brushy hills, and distant mountains. With 20,000 feet of cumulative elevation gain over its length, the Highline demands fitness and careful pacing. This is ponderosa pine country rather than desert: expect stands of pines and fir trees, unusual rock formations, and sometimes elk grazing in the meadows.
The trail runs essentially east-west from Pine Trailhead (elevation 5,300 feet) to 260 Trailhead (elevation varies 5,300-6,900 feet). A recent $800,000 Forest Service investment rerouted and improved 20 miles between Pine and Washington Park, making those sections more sustainable and rideable while keeping the rugged character.
No backcountry permits are required for the Highline Trail. Dispersed camping is allowed throughout most of the route, but specific regulations apply:
Camping Restrictions: - Maximum 14-day stay within any 30-day period - No camping at trailheads - The Washington Park area (200 feet either side of the East Verde River for approximately one mile to the Highline Trail intersection) prohibits overnight camping - Avoid camping in drainages recently burned by the Washington Fire, specifically the 2 miles between Chase Creek and two drainages to the east, due to flash flood and debris flow hazards - No driving vehicles off forest roads
Fire Restrictions: Fire restrictions vary seasonally and are strictly enforced. During hot, dry periods (typically late spring through early monsoon), all campfires are prohibited regardless of location. Portable stoves with shut-off valves using pressurized liquid or gas are generally permitted even during restrictions. Check current fire restrictions with Tonto National Forest Payson Ranger District (928-474-7900) before your trip.
Food Storage: Bear canisters are not required, but proper food storage is essential. Black bears, mountain lions, and other wildlife are present. Use bear hangs or store food well away from your sleeping area.
Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash. The Forest Service emphasizes "Pack it in, pack it out." Bury human waste 6-8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water sources.
Optimal: April-May and September-October
Spring (April-May) has the most reliable water, moderate temperatures (typically 60s-80s°F during the day), and heavy wildflower displays across the meadows. Snow typically clears from the trail by early April, though late-season storms can drop snow at higher elevations through mid-April in heavy snow years.
Fall (September-October) is the easiest combination of cool days, clear skies, and stable weather. Fall colors accent the pine forests and temperatures are pleasant. Fall is drier, though: many seasonal water sources may be dry after the summer monsoons taper off in late September. Fall hikers must monitor water reports carefully and carry larger capacity (3+ liters) between sources.
Shoulder Seasons:
Late March can work, but expect possible snow patches and mud from snowmelt. November brings increasing cold and the potential for early winter storms: temperatures drop below freezing at night, and snow becomes likely, especially above 6,500 feet.
Avoid:
June-August (Monsoon): Intense afternoon thunderstorms build rapidly during monsoon season (officially June 15-September 30), bringing heavy rain, lightning, strong winds, and flash flood danger in canyons. The Mogollon Rim acts as a trigger for daily thunderstorms. If hiking during monsoon, start at dawn and plan to be off exposed ridgelines by noon. Temperatures can drop 20°F when storms hit.
December-February (Winter): Snow accumulation at 6,000-7,000 feet makes travel difficult and potentially dangerous. Forest roads may be gated or impassable. The trail is technically open year-round, but winter conditions require mountaineering skills, snowshoes or microspikes, and winter camping gear.
Water Sources:
The Highline crosses numerous drainages and springs, so unsupported through-hikes are feasible in spring. Water reliability varies dramatically by season:
Year-Round Reliable (treat all water): - East Verde River (slam-dunk source, camping available) - Bray Creek (pipe channels water, easy fill; "most likely chance" heading into summer) - Webber Creek (usually reliable) - Bonita Creek ("rock solid" per recent reports) - Horton Creek (perennial, but note: water sometimes disappears into sinkholes downstream of Horton Springs, which can leave sections dry in late summer)
Seasonal (Spring and Post-Monsoon):
- Red Rock Spring
- Pine Spring
- Sycamore Creek
- North Sycamore Creek
- Chase Creek (good flow reported in spring)
- Mail Creek
- Dude Creek
Spring hikers can expect abundant water. Fall hikers must check real-time water reports via the Arizona Trail Association water report before departure and carry 3-4 liters of capacity. Plan on 15-20 mile carries between sources in dry conditions.
Resupply:
There is no on-trail resupply. The trail can be segmented using multiple vehicle access points:
Pine (western terminus): Small community with a general store for basic supplies. Limited selection. Located just off Highway 87.
Payson (15 miles south of Pine Trailhead via AZ-260): Full services including Walmart, Safeway, outdoor shops, restaurants, and lodging. Best resupply option. It's a straight shot north on Highway 87 from Payson to Pine Trailhead.
Christopher Creek (near 260 Trailhead): Limited services: one developed campground and a few stores for minimal resupply.
Logistics: Multiple trailhead access points (Pine, Washington Park, Geronimo, Horton Creek, 260) allow section hiking over 3-5 days. Vehicle shuttles are available via Payson Rideshare (602-350-1105) and Jerry's Local Shuttle (602-430-4898) as of 2023. Expect shuttle costs around $100+ depending on distance.
Mail drops are not practical for this trail. Use Payson for pre-trip shopping.
Fire Damage & Flash Floods: The Washington Fire and Highline Fire (2017) burned portions of the trail corridor. The Dude Fire (1990) burned sections that are still regenerating. Avoid camping in burned drainages, where flash flood and debris flow risk runs higher during monsoons. Snags (dead standing trees) are a falling hazard in burn zones.
Lightning: The Mogollon Rim triggers afternoon thunderstorms during monsoon season, and lightning is extremely dangerous on exposed ridgelines and summits. If clouds develop dark bases and vertical buildup, descend immediately. Avoid caves (they conduct ground current) and isolated trees. Crouch low in treeless areas during storms. Never hike exposed terrain after noon during monsoon months.
Elevation & Terrain: Constant climbing in and out of canyons totals 20,000 feet of elevation change. Rocky, technical sections call for sturdy footwear and trekking poles, and ankle-twisting terrain is common. Pace conservatively; most hikers average 6-8 hours of hiking per day.
Heat & Dehydration: Arizona's low humidity and the strenuous climbing can dehydrate you quickly, even at 6,000+ feet. Carry a minimum of 3 liters capacity and drink frequently. Plan on one gallon per person per day during warm periods. Heat exhaustion can set in fast.
Creek Crossings: Most crossings are straightforward rock-hops or ankle-deep fords at normal flow. Spring snowmelt and post-monsoon flows can make crossings deeper and faster. The East Verde River is the deepest draw; expect wet feet in high water. There are no dangerous fords under typical conditions.
Wildlife: Black bears, mountain lions, elk, deer, and coyotes inhabit the area. One trip report mentions "almost got blasted by a black rattler": rattlesnakes are present, especially in rocky areas and near water sources during warm months. Watch your footing and your hands when scrambling. Store food properly.
Navigation: The trail is generally well-marked with cairns and blazes, but burned sections may have obscured tread. Download offline maps; GPS tracks are recommended. The Arizona Trail Association provides detailed passage maps.
Nearest Airport: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is 84 miles south of Payson, approximately 1 hour 40 minutes driving via AZ-87 North. Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA) is 79 miles away. No public transportation runs from the airports to Payson; you'll need a rental car or a shuttle ($100+).
Trailhead Access:
Pine Trailhead (Western Terminus): From Payson, drive north on AZ-87 for approximately 15 miles. Just before entering the town of Pine (0.6 miles south of Pine), turn left (east) onto the signed trailhead road. Large parking lot with pit toilets. No fees. Coordinates: approximately 34.383°N, 111.456°W.
From Phoenix: Take AZ-87 North through Payson, then continue 15 miles to the Pine Trailhead turnoff on the left before Pine. Total distance approximately 90 miles, 2 hours.
260 Trailhead (Eastern Terminus): From Payson, drive east on AZ-260 for approximately 27 miles (about 4 miles west of the Mogollon Rim Visitor Center). The trailhead is on the west side of the highway near the Christopher Creek area. Medium-sized parking lot with pit toilets. No fees. Coordinates: approximately 34.307°N, 110.952°W.
Road Conditions: Both main trailheads have paved highway access, and standard clearance vehicles are fine in summer. Winter may bring snow and ice to AZ-260 at higher elevations; check ADOT road conditions. Forest roads to the intermediate trailheads (Washington Park, Geronimo, Horton Creek) are dirt and may require high clearance or 4WD when muddy. Winter closures are possible.
Start Early: Begin hiking by 6:00 AM during monsoon season to avoid afternoon lightning. Early starts also beat the heat on exposed climbs.
Water Strategy: In spring, tank up at every source even if you don't need it; the next one may be fouled or dry despite reports. In fall, carry 3-4 liters and plan conservative mileage between the known reliable sources (Bray, East Verde, Webber, Bonita).
Campsite Selection: The best camps are near reliable creeks: East Verde River (excellent sites), Chase Creek (sweet campsite reported), and Bonita Creek (good sites). The Horton Springs area has primitive sites 8 miles from the trailhead. Avoid camping directly in drainages in burned areas. Evening canyon breezes keep the bugs down.
Direction of Travel: Westbound (260 Trailhead to Pine) has slightly better afternoon shade on the ridges. Eastbound (Pine to 260) spreads the best rim views across more days. Most hikers go eastbound as part of Arizona Trail through-hikes.
Section Hiking: A popular 3-day itinerary: Day 1 Pine to East Verde River (19 miles, challenging), Day 2 East Verde to the Horton Creek area (13 miles), Day 3 Horton Creek to 260 Trailhead (20+ miles). Adjust for fitness. Many intermediate trailheads allow shorter 2-day segments.
Footwear: Trail runners work for experienced hikers in dry conditions, but boots give better ankle support on the rocky, uneven terrain with its 20,000 feet of elevation change.
Wildflowers & Colors: Wildflowers peak late April to early May. Fall colors are best in mid-October, when the aspens and oaks turn.
Solitude: Expect to see few other backpackers, especially midweek. Day hikers frequent the areas near trailheads. Arizona Trail through-hikers pass through in April-May heading northbound.
Historical Note: Watch for remnants of the original 1870s homesteader trail. The Western author Zane Grey hunted these forests and traveled the Highline Trail; his cabin is nearby in the Tonto Basin.
Check Before You Go: Contact Tonto National Forest, Payson Ranger District (1009 E. Hwy 260, Payson, AZ 85541; 928-474-7900) for current trail conditions, fire restrictions, and closure information. The Arizona Trail Association website provides water reports and passage updates.
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