This trail is popular to campers on Mingus Mountain because it provides an easy day hike from the campground to the points overlooking Gaddes Canyon. The trail stays primarily in the ponderosa pine, and consequently there are not many viewing points on the trail except from the edge of the rim before the trail drops down to Forest Road 413. It is not unusual to see deer along this trail.

The trail leaves the lookout road descending to Gaddes Spring and then back to the ridge overlooking Gaddes Canyon. At mile 1.75 the trail descends steeply to where it ends on FR 4123.

Directions: From Prescott, To access the north trailhead, go east on Highway 89A, at the summit north of Mingus Mountain take Forest Road 104 south for approximately 2.25 miles to the Mingus Mountain recreation area and the junction with FR 104B. Take FR 104B (lookout road) to a point about 0.1 miles below the lookout; the trailhead will be on the left of the road.

Elevation: 7,700 feet

Ending Elevation: 6,900 feet

Elevation Gain: 800 feet

Distance: 2.63 miles

Usage: Moderate

Difficulty: Moderate

Visitor Information

Contact Wildernet