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MACK’S CROSSING
Coconino National Forest
Since it was abandoned in the 1940s, the old road leading to
Mack’s Crossing has disintegrated into a precipitous ledge overlooking the
gaping gorge carved by
East Clear Creek.
Even though the rough conditions don’t deter brave souls in
fishing-gear-laden ATVs from careening down the serpentine route-- hiking at a
leisurely pace is the best way to savor the epic beauty of this dramatic
canyon.
The downhill trek to the creek begins on the sunny edge of
the Mogollon Rim, passing fossiliferous limestone outcroppings and a stand of
elegant Arizona walnut trees before rounding a bend where grand views of the
waterway 600 feet below grab the spotlight.
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| East Clear Creek |
Near the creek, thickets of wild roses, alders, and exotic
wildflowers color the landscape and provide handy excuses to stop and take in
the sights. Although the official
trail ends where the road meets the sandy shore of the shallow stream,
opportunities for wading, swimming and fishing abound both up and downstream.
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| Antelope Horns |
PLANT PROFILE:
Antelope Horns
Asclepias asperula
Habitat:
woodland clearings and open areas
Elevation: 3,000 – 9,000 feet
Blooms: April-August
LENGTH: 4 miles
(on trail)
ELEVATION: 6,250 – 6,860 feet
RATING: moderate
DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX:
165 mils one-way
GETTING THERE:
From the junction of AZ 89 and AZ 260 in Payson, go north on
89 past Clint’s Well to milepost 304.5 and turn right onto Enchanted Lane
(Forest Road 319). Continue .2
miles to Green Ridge Dr., hang a right and go .5 miles to Juniper Dr. From
here, turn right and go a short distance to Cedar Dr. and follow it to the
“primitive road 137” sign. Park
along the road—do not block private driveways.
INFORMATION: refer to the Coconino National Forest map
MORE PHOTOS:
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