Walker Gulch to Senator Highway and Crown King

Total Miles
20.3

Elevation

1,820.21 ft

Duration

1.75 Hours

Technical Rating

5

Moderate

Best Time

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Trail Overview

This route is a spectacular alternative to Cow Creek Road. This route offers some obstacles. However, they're less technical than Cow Creek's. The beauty is traveling the Walker Gulch as it winds and elevation changes. This is a great route if those driving with you are less experienced off-road or just want an easy, fun day without major gatekeepers and waterfalls. If desired, the return home ride can include Cow Creek by passing Walker Gulch and staying left onto the upper West Cow Creek Road. Either way, it takes approximately the same return time to Lake Pleasant. This route can also save time for Crown King or Prescott because it bypasses the obstacles on Cow Creek.

Photos of Walker Gulch to Senator Highway and Crown King

Walker Gulch to Senator Highway and Crown King
Walker Gulch to Senator Highway and Crown King

Difficulty

There are some spots that require high clearance, washes, obstacles up to 18 inches, and occasional water crossings.

Technical Rating

5

Access Description

Take Castle Hot Springs Road north off Carefree Highway, taking a left at the "T" to remain on Castle Hot Springs. Stay on Castle Hot Springs to Castle Creek Road, which leads to the river bottom wash. Follow the wash to Walker Gulch, then, head north.

Popular Trails