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Hiking trail through ponderosa pine forest in Rim Country, Arizona

RIM COUNTRY OUTDOORS

Trail & Recreation Guide

Discover 62+ hiking trails beneath the Mogollon Rim -- from easy family walks through ponderosa pines to challenging canyon descents. Maps, photos, and reviews for every trail.

11 Featured Trails
62+ Area Trails
4,890 ft Base Elevation
Tonto NF National Forest

EXPLORE THE TRAILS

Rim Country's Best Hikes

Filter by difficulty and find the perfect trail for your next adventure under the pines.

IN-TOWN TRAILS

Payson Area Trails System (PATS)

An interconnecting trail network utilizing detached pathways, existing sidewalks, and bike lanes to connect interior town routes with Forest Service trails on the periphery.

Round Valley Trail

Easy

4.4-mile paved pathway from Phoenix Street to Sonic, connecting neighborhoods across Payson. Perfect for walking, jogging, and cycling.

Distance: 4.4 mi
Access: Phoenix Street to Sonic

Boulders Loop & Cypress Trail

Moderate

Boulders Loop offers 2.4 miles of scenic views, connecting to the 2-mile Cypress Trail off Granite Dells Road. Great for a moderate morning hike.

Distance: 2.4 mi loop + 2 mi connector
Access: Granite Dells Road

Event Center Trail

More Difficult

3.7-mile trail from the Event Center to Peach Orchard Trailhead. A challenging connector route through varied terrain.

Distance: 3.7 mi
Access: Event Center SW corner to Peach Orchard

Contact Payson Parks, Recreation and Tourism Office at (928) 472-5110 for PATS trail maps and information.

View Full PATS Trail Map

DISCOVER MORE

62+ Trails in the Payson Area

From easy family walks to challenging canyon descents, AllTrails lists over 62 scenic trails in the Payson area with maps, reviews, and photos from fellow hikers.

Easy Trails

9 easy hiking trails perfect for families and casual walkers.

Browse Easy Trails →

Trail Running

10 top trail running routes through pine forests and canyon terrain.

Browse Running Trails →

Best Views

10 trails with the most spectacular views of the Mogollon Rim and Tonto Basin.

Browse Scenic Trails →

Ask Mac, Your Trail Guide

Not sure which trail to hit? Mac knows every trail in Rim Country and can recommend hikes based on your skill level, how much time you have, and what you want to see.

STAY SAFE OUT THERE

Trail Safety Tips

Rim Country's high-desert terrain demands preparation. Keep these essentials in mind before heading out. For complete safety information, visit our Wildlife & Outdoor Safety Guide.

Hydration

Carry at least one liter of water per hour of hiking. Arizona's dry air and altitude cause faster dehydration than you may expect. Start hydrating the day before your hike.

Weather Awareness

Mountain weather changes fast. Summer monsoons bring lightning and flash floods -- often with little warning. Check forecasts and start hikes early in the day.

Fire Danger

Rim Country is a fire-prone region. Check current fire restrictions before you go. Never leave campfires unattended, and obey all trail and forest closures during fire season.

Wildlife

Black bears, elk, javelina, and rattlesnakes are common. Keep a safe distance, store food properly, watch where you step, and make noise on the trail to avoid surprise encounters.

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