The Gila County Board of Supervisors has approved a $2,000 grant to support the development of a local section of the proposed 704-mile Arizona Alpine Trail, a long-distance hiking route that would traverse some of the state's most spectacular mountain terrain.
A Visionary Trail Project
The Arizona Alpine Trail is an ambitious proposal to create a continuous long-distance hiking trail running through the state's high-elevation mountain ranges. The trail would connect existing trails and new segments to create a route that showcases Arizona's alpine environments — from the Mogollon Rim to the sky islands of southern Arizona.
The Payson-area section would follow portions of the Mogollon Rim, offering hikers stunning views of the Rim Country landscape and passing through ponderosa pine forests, mixed conifer woodlands, and alpine meadows. The area is already known for iconic trails like the Highline Trail, and the Alpine Trail would build on this existing infrastructure.
Economic Benefits
Supporters of the trail project point to the significant economic benefits that long-distance trails bring to rural communities. Hikers need food, lodging, gear, and other services, all of which support local businesses. Trails like the Appalachian Trail and Pacific Crest Trail generate millions of dollars in economic activity for the small towns along their routes.
The grant will be used for trail planning, environmental assessment, and community outreach efforts in the Payson area. While $2,000 is a modest amount, organizers say it represents an important step in building local government support for the project.
Community Support Growing
The trail proposal has gained support from outdoor recreation groups, tourism organizations, and local businesses that see the potential for increased visitation to the region. As Arizona continues to grow as an outdoor recreation destination, projects like the Alpine Trail position Rim Country as a premier hiking destination.