GROOM CREEK-ISABELLA LOOP

GROOM CREEK-ISABELLA LOOP

Prescott National Forest

Located just a few miles south of downtown Prescott’s main drag, this loop trail is a premier hiking destination in the Bradshaw Mountains.

The trailhead is easy to find and--with minimal application of common sense—it’s nearly impossible to get lost along the route. Unlike other nearby trails, this one is closed to noisy motorized vehicles like dirt bikes and ATVs---a high-value treat for those in search of a calming outdoor experience.  It’s easiest to hike the loop in clockwise fashion—beginning on the Groom Creek trail #307, which heads north (left) from the trailhead sign.

A substantial but steady ascent follows natural drainages through a wonderland of mica-flecked granite boulders flanking the path in sentry-like formation. 

Woodlands flush with broadleaf and coniferous trees shade the way framing continually changing vistas including glimpses of Prescott’s Granite Mountain.  Near the half-way point, a small clearing with picnic tables, restroom and a short spur trail to Spruce Mountain fire tower makes for a handy place to take a lunch break and do some exploring.  From here pick up the Isabella trail #377—to find it, stand with your back toward the restroom so that the fire tower is to your left. You’ll see a road directly ahead (this is NOT the trail), and two other roads off to the right.  Take the narrow middle road (go right) which is signed 377---if you do not see the sign, you’re on the wrong path.  Follow 377 back to the trailhead.

Oak trees cluster along Isabella Trail

LENGTH:  8.7-mile loop

ELEVATION: 6,400’ – 7,750’

RATING:  moderate
BEST SEASON: year round

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 120 miles one-way

GETTING THERE:

From Phoenix, go north on I-17 to Cordes Junction.  Exit onto SR 69 west and proceed through the towns of Mayer, Dewey and Prescott Valley to the town of Prescott.  Continue on SR 69/Gurley Street through Prescott to Mt. Vernon Ave.  Turn south (left) onto Mt. Vernon Ave. (which will turn into Senator Highway) and continue 6.4 miles to the Groom Creek Trailhead on the left.  Roads are 100% paved.

INFO: Bradshaw Ranger District, Prescott National Forest, 928-771-4700

http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott/recreation/trails/bradsahw.shtml

GROOM CREEK

GROOM CREEK LOOP Prescott National Forest Topping off at 7,700 feet of elevation, the well-maintained Groom Creek trail heads steeply uphill through pine-shaded Wolf Creek drainage to the lookout tower on Spruce Mountain. Considered to be one of the most attractive horse/hiker/mountain bike trails in the Prescott National Forest, hikers are treated to a continuous smorgasbord of splendid panoramic views, gurgling streams and, (if invited up by the ranger), a chance to visit in the fire tower. LENGTH: 9 mile loop RATING: difficult ELEV. GAIN: 1,350 feet GETTING THERE: From Phoenix, travel north on I-17 for about 65 miles to the Cordes Junction interchange. From there, connect with Highway 69 and go west toward Prescott. Continue on Highway 69 for about 25 miles into the town of Prescott. Once in Prescott, continue on Highway 69 as it turns into Gurley Street. Go south (left) onto Mt. Vernon Ave. and follow it for 6.4 miles as it turns into the Senator Highway. The trailhead is on the east (left) side of the road. There are restrooms at the trailhead and below the lookout tower.