The best walks and hikes around Star Valley

The Stewart Pocket Loop offers a truly distinctive hiking experience, winding through a "granite wonderland" near Payson, Arizona. You'll encounter a fascinating mix of terrain, from dirt paths to expansive, smooth granite slabs, all while surrounded by eroded pink rock formations and impressive boulders. Keep an eye out for unique landmarks like Balanced Rock and enjoy the diverse vegetation, including Ponderosa Pine and manzanita, which adds to the trail's scenic charm and provides a sense of wilderness.

Planning your visit to the Stewart Pocket Loop is straightforward, though a few tips will enhance your experience. While the trail is generally rated as moderate, some sections can be slippery due to pea-sized gravel, making hiking poles a good idea for stability. Navigation can also be tricky on the wide bedrock expanses, so carrying a GPS or a reliable hiking app is highly recommended. The trail is best enjoyed during cooler months due to limited shade in some areas.

What makes the Stewart Pocket Loop truly stand out is its unique geology, often compared to Sedona's iconic landscapes, but with its own distinct character. This 6.8-mile (10.9 km) route, with 503 feet (153 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 57 minutes to complete. It's a relatively uncrowded option within the Tonto National Forest, offering a serene escape and expansive viewpoints of Gibson Peak and the distant Mogollon Rim.

The Cypress-Stewart Ridge Extended Loop offers a delightful journey through varied terrain, where you'll wander among massive Ponderosa pines and marvel at house-sized granite boulders that line the path. The route also includes several simple crossings of Stewart Creek, adding a refreshing element to the hike. This easy 4.2-mile (6.7 km) loop, with a gentle 398 feet (121 metres) of elevation gain, provides a scenic and engaging experience for hikers of all ages and skill levels.

Planning your visit to the Cypress-Stewart Ridge Extended Loop is straightforward, as the trail begins directly from a local street in Payson, making access incredibly convenient. The route is part of the Payson Area Trail System (PATS) and is clearly signed, ensuring you can follow it without any navigational worries. While the trail offers good shade, it's always wise to carry plenty of water, especially if you're hiking during the summer months, to stay hydrated.

This trail is particularly notable for its combination of accessibility and engaging natural features, making it one of the most popular hiking trails in the Payson area. Beyond the striking granite boulders and Ponderosa forests, you might even spot wildlife such as bald eagles, elk, or deer. Its relatively low difficulty and well-maintained path make it an excellent option for families or anyone looking for a rewarding outdoor experience without a strenuous climb.

The Houston Loop Trail near Payson, Arizona, plunges you into a rugged landscape of pine and scrub oak forests, offering a true test for experienced hikers. As you traverse the wide dirt road, expect rutted and rocky sections, a result of shared use with off-road vehicles. The journey rewards you with sweeping views of Payson and the base of the Mogollon Rim, alongside the unique historical intrigue of abandoned Cold War-era seismic bunkers.

This difficult 16.6-mile (26.7 km) hiking route involves a substantial 1062 feet (324 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring around 7 hours and 10 minutes to complete. Plan to start early, especially during warmer months, and ensure you carry ample water. While dogs are welcome, be prepared for potential encounters with ATVs, which share this multi-use trail.

Beyond the challenging terrain, the trail offers a glimpse into a unique piece of history with its Cold War-era seismic bunkers, adding an unexpected layer to your outdoor adventure. It's a significant undertaking within the Payson Area Trail System, best suited for those seeking a long, demanding hike rather than a casual stroll.

The Pyeatt Draw OHV Trail offers a genuinely rugged hiking experience through a rocky wash bottom, winding past tall pines and offering distant views of the Mogollon Rim. This 8.3-mile (13.4 km) route, with its 1257 feet (383 metres) of elevation gain, is rated moderate for hikers but feels more demanding due to constant rock steps and boulders. Expect to spend around 3 hours and 47 minutes navigating its challenging terrain, including notorious spots like "The Filter."

Planning your visit is straightforward: the trail is accessible during spring, summer, and fall, making it a great option for most of the year. Dogs are welcome to join you on this adventure. While it's a shared route with off-highway vehicles, a parallel forest road provides an alternative if you wish to bypass the most extreme sections, allowing you to tailor your challenge level.

What makes this trail stand out is its reputation as a "premier 4-wheeling" destination, even recognized as a "BF Goodrich Outstanding Trail." This history means hikers get to experience a truly untamed path, demanding sure-footedness and a sense of adventure. Beyond the ruggedness, the area provides opportunities to spot local wildlife such as elk and deer, adding to the wild appeal of this Arizona gem.