Horton Creek, Highline, Derrick Trail Loop

Join us on the Horton Creek trail loop. It's a great hike with a large variety of scenery along they way!

All Trails: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/arizona/horton-creek-trail-highline-trail-and-derrick-trail-loop
Distance: 10.4 miles
Elevation gain: 1,654'
Pace: 2mph

My distance, pace, and elevation totals are from when we did this hike in May 2026. They are slightly different than what All Trails reports. Moving time was 5h 3m. Total time was 5h 48m

Arrive Early: Be ready to hike at 9:00am
Meet at the Derrick Trail parking lot.

Look for Karl with his bright green Osprey backpack. There are pit toilets at the parking lot but no water.

Bring at least 2 liters of water, plus trail snacks and electrolytes. Wear appropriate shoes and clothing for the trail conditions and the weather. Hiking poles are recommended.

We are going to hike this loop in reverse, starting with the Derrick Trail to the Highline Trail, and ending with the Horton Creek Trail.

We will be stopping in Payson on the way back for a late lunch, probably Culver's but that's open for suggestions and ideas.