Arizona Trail Passage 24: Red Hills

AZT Passage 24: Red Hills is a 10.9-mile point-to-point section of the roughly 800-mile Arizona National Scenic Trail. This moderately rated section runs from Red Hills Trail junction to the East Verde Riverand is located west of Payson, AZ. This passage is rated as difficult and is accessible for hikers, trail runners, long-distance backpackers, and equestrians (mountain bikes are prohibited in the Mazatzal Wilderness). Passage 24 begins at the junction of the Red Hills Trail and the Mazatzal Divide Trail (#23). The trail continues into the Mazatzal Wilderness and then descends into the East Verde River valley. This section consists of rolling terrain followed by a long descent and features unique biodiversity with scenic views of the Mogollon Rim. The trail descends nearly 3,000 feet and passes through a variety of Arizona's biotic communities, from majestic stands of ponderosa pines to a lush riparian zone whose inhabitants include turtles and rare birds. The East Verde River is a special highlight of this passage, since it is only one of four rivers that the Arizona National Scenic Trail (AZT) crosses between Mexico and Utah, and is one of only two Wild and Scenic Rivers within the entire state! DIRECTIONSFollow Arizona National Scenic Trail Signs/Trail Markers.WATERThe East Verde River is usually a very reliable water source and is located at the northern end of this passage. For additional water sources and the most up to date information visit the Arizona Trail Water Report: https://aztrail.org/explore/water-sources/.ADDITIONAL INFORMATION INFORMATIONArizona National Scenic Trail Association: www.aztrail.orgTonto National Forest, http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/tonto/, Payson Ranger District, 1-(928) 474-7900.BLM Information Center (602) 417-9300.