Horton Creek Trailhead — Attraction in Payson

Loved this hike. It’s about 4 miles long and follows the creek the whole way, lots of shade. We did it in late October. Plenty of water if you want to filter it or splash around and cool off. There’s a couple of steeper climbs that will get your pulse up. The trail is well maintained and obvious. There was almost always some other hikers in the near vicinity, but we had plenty of opportunity to also experience a little solitude and enjoy nature. We brought our dog and found a place to camp the near the top of the trail. Temperatures got down into the mid 40s at night. We lit a small campfire and then used water from the creek to douse it before we went to bed. Plenty of firewood around and there were no fire restrictions at the time. We decided to make a loop out of the trail by taking the Highline Trail to the Derek trail. Word of caution though, Highline Trail is difficult! Lots of steep loose climbs, and no water until you get back to the trailhead. The hike back was around 7 miles and we encountered only one hiker on the entire way back. The Derek trail is almost all downhill, but the trail is littered with fist to head size boulders that make your footing a...

A great location for overnight backpacking. I've been here 3 of the past 4 weekends for hike-in camping, and will be back again. I've been camping in Arizona for years but am new to backpacking. It's a quick drive from the Phoenix area and a great chance to test my gear in the wild, while still being close to civilization. The scenery and access to a year-round creek is unique for Arizona. It almost makes you forget how hot the Phoenix area is...

A couple of minor complaints: 1- The area has recently burned. It's coming back well, but there's a surprising amount of soot and burnt trees. Expect your shoes and your gear to get black marks and char on them.

2- Dogwalkers, please carry your poop bags out. It's frustrating to walk past bags next to the trail. I'm certain that one bag was there for all of my visits. I shouldn't have to carry someone else's dirty bags out. If you can't be bothered, then leave your dog at home.

3- No-see-ums. They are out in force, so bring some bugspray. Or a hiking partner that is more attractive...

My family has hiked here a couple of times (young kids and a dog) and had fun every time. In the warmer months the water in fun for the kids to play in. Nothing too challenging and easy to hike as far as you want them turn around and come back. Having the bathrooms at the trailhead are great if you got little ones. The scenery is beautiful and we caught sight of a couple deer one morning.

The start of the trail can feel a little disappointing as it's just another dry creek bed, but go up just a little more and it gets significantly better as the water is flowing and the mini waterfalls and greenery spread.

I took my oldest on a three day backpacking trip here in November after the first snow and it was amazing. Easy hike, clear trail and plenty of places close to the trail to camp. If you're just wanting to try backpacking or taking newbies this is a...