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Hikes/United States/Arizona/Tonto National Forest
Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
230 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
13.8 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
3-4.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Picketpost Loop Trail

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Table of contents

Picketpost Loop Trail is an 8.6mi loop hike that leads you around a dramatic, isolated butte in the Tonto National Forest. Previously used as a battleground in efforts by Geroge Stoneman to seize this land from the Yavapai, the butte is now an area for campers and hikers to appreciate Arizona’s rugged scenery. Bring plenty of water, wear sunscreen and a hat, and avoid hiking this trail between June and August when the temperatures soar.

Route Description for Picketpost Loop Trail

Back in the late 1800s, General George Stoneman and his troops chose the base of Picketpost Mountain as the site of their camp. They sought to seize the land from the native Yavapai and planned to use the butte as a natural barrier. The mountain was given its current nickname by these troops.

You can hike this loop either way. If you’re here in the afternoon, we’ve found that hiking counterclockwise gets the most shade. If you’re not picky about shade, go whichever way you prefer. The route begins at the Picketpost Trailhead.

Whichever way you choose to travel, stay to the inside of the butte at all junctions. Note that the washes can vary in size, shape, and footing depending on the intensity of recent rains, so take care in them. Make your way all around the butte, admiring it from every angle, and find yourself back where you started.

Getting to the Picketpost Loop Trail Trailhead

The trailhead for the Picketpost Loop Trail is on Alamo Canyon Road off State Route 80.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    Picketpost Dispersed Camping

  • When to do:

    September-May

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage:

    Good

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Loop

Picketpost Loop Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

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