Parker Creek Trail
Parker Creek Trail is a 10.3 km hike in the Tonto National Forest that sees little traffic. That’s part of the intrigue and challenge of this route. You’ll very likely have the place to yourself, but you’re going to need to be very bold to make it to the top and back. The views are excellent, but you’ll contend with downed trees, overgrowth, and a lack of signage. If you’re lucky enough to enjoy this trail after it’s been tended to, you’ll be able to cruise through right to the views. Bring pants, poles, good boots, and lots of water on this hike.
Quick Navigation
Join our newsletter
Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers
Route Description for Parker Creek Trail
Parker Creek Trail is an adventurous trip that takes you between Grantham Peak, Carr Mountain, and partway up Carr Peak. The views are excellent and you likely won’t need to share this trail with anyone. It’s a quiet trip that definitely leaves you feeling like you disconnected from your day to day for a little while.
The flipside of the remoteness of this trail is that it’s not well-maintained. Users report struggling with overgrowth, downed trees, and a lack of signage. Come prepared with long pants, good boots, poles, perhaps some clippers, and a GPS route to help you find your way.
The hike begins from the roadside, wrapping around the base of Grantham Peak as it climbs through a valley. You’ll stay right onto a set of switchbacks and continue to trek along the valley wall. Another set of switchbacks on your right takes you to the saddle with Carr Peak in front of you. The route ends here, where you can stop for a lunch with a view before retracing your steps back down to the trailhead.
Getting to the Parker Creek Trail Trailhead
The trailhead for the Parker Creek Trail is on State Route 288.
Route Information
Parker Creek Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherParker Creek Trail Reviews
Add a comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.