Browse Map

Explore away

Explore Map Collection

Check out our basemaps

Print a Map Plus

Generate a high-quality PDF

Field Guide

Discover local flora, fauna, geology, and more

Local Flora & Fauna

Learn the ecology of your area

Local Geology

Learn the geologic formation at your feet

Get Started or Sign In

Welcome

Continue with Apple

Already have an account? Sign In

MAP

Topo

Measure

Topo

Ecoregions

Public Lands

...

BASEMAPS

Default Weather

Temperature

Smoke

...

WEATHER

Parsons Trail

Trail on Sycamore Creek in Coconino NF, Prescott NF, Sycamore Canyon Wilderness near Clarkdale, AZ

Official Website

Print Map

Generate High-Quality PDF

Get Driving Directions

Navigate Here

Length

3¾mi

Surface

Dirt

Allows Bikes

Trail Number

#144

On the Web

On Official Website

The hike up the Parsons Trail is a pleasant stroll along a cool, clear desert stream set in a magnificent red rock canyon. The trail leads through the lower reaches of this wilderness through a riparian area rich in plant and animal life. Songbirds flit through the tall cottonwoods and thick mesquite bosques. At a number of points additional springs flow from the canyon walls through gardens of columbine and watercress. Colorful cliffs that are a unique mix of dark columnar basalt, red sandstone, and buff colored limestone enclose the lush green of the oasis. The trail leads 4 miles to a large pool called Parson Springs where it surfaces from the underground course it has followed through the majority of the canyon. Up the canyon from the spring, water flow only occurs during snowmelt and after summer monsoons.