This trail is primarily a service trail to the Hyde Mountain Lookout, but is always open to hikers. Hyde Mountain at the fire lookout (7,272 ft.) is the highest point in the Santa Maria Mountains and offers excellent vistas of the Santa Maria Mountains and northern Arizona. The lookout is listed in the National Register of Historic Places as exemplifying CCC era construction.

The trail climbs directly to the lookout on Hyde Mountain. The latter third of the trail is steep and difficult. A lookout is normally on duty during May, June, and July and visitors are always welcome. The trail branches about 1/4 mile south of the lookout, descending to the west for about 0.8 miles and joins the Brown Springs Trail #5 just northeast of the saddle between Hyde Mountain and Pinetop Mountain.

Precautions: This can be a hot, difficult climb. Take frequent breaks and carry plenty of drinking water; none is available on the trail or at the lookout on Hyde Mountain.

Directions: From Prescott, Take the Williamson Valley Road north from Prescott for approximately 22 miles to the turnoff to Camp Wood (FR 21). It is then 16 miles more to Camp Wood. There, turn north on FR 95 for about 0.3 miles. Turn west on FR 95C and go approximately 1.75 miles to the trailhead near the end of this road. Vehicle parking here is limited, as is turnaround space.

Elevation: 5,900 feet

Ending Elevation: 6,100 feet

Elevation Gain: 200 feet

Distance: 2.8 miles

Usage: Moderate

Difficulty: Strenuous

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