See Canyon Trail
A serene canyon hike near Payson, Arizona, renowned for its vibrant fall foliage and peaceful creek crossings. Perfect for a quiet escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak fall colors
See Canyon Trail
Best Time
Peak fall colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene canyon hike near Payson, Arizona, renowned for its vibrant fall foliage and peaceful creek crossings. Perfect for a quiet escape.
"Love the fall colors! Very quiet trail, not many people even on a Sat."
🎯 Download Offline Maps
Trail markings are minimal. Use AllTrails or a similar app to avoid getting lost .
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trail is rocky and involves creek crossings, so good footwear is essential .
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 221 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Address
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Fall Foliage
Along the entire trail
Experience a breathtaking display of autumn colors, especially in mid to late October. A true spectacle!
Peaceful Creek Crossings
Multiple points along the trail
Enjoy the serene experience of crossing the creek several times, adding a refreshing element to your hike.
Quiet and Serene Atmosphere
The entire trail
Escape the crowds on this less-trafficked trail, offering a tranquil nature experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Fall Colors
Trail Conditions & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Download Offline Maps
Trail markings are minimal. Use AllTrails or a similar app to avoid getting lost.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trail is rocky and involves creek crossings, so good footwear is essential.
What are the best trails to see fall foliage at the Mogollon Rim?
See canyon in Christopher creek!
Planning a day trip to Payson from Phoenix. Please suggest places to visit.
Day trip to Payson. We will be doing the tonto natural bridge. Is there a hike to see it? Green valley park, what else to see around? Can i drive my sedan to Mogollon Rim? is it a dirt road?
🐶 Dog-Friendly Adventure
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for a hike with your furry friend.
🚗 Drive Slowly on Dirt Road
The access road is dirt, so take your time and be mindful of other vehicles.
Going to Payson in the next couple of weeks...very weery of cliffs and loops...how's the roads going up there and what's it like driving up there?
If you have concerns about the road, just stay in the right lane. I always schedule extra time to make it a leisurely drive and enjoy the change in scenery out the front window. There will definitely be hauling in the left lane. It's really easy to have someone "push" you faster…
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Download Offline Maps
Trail markings are minimal. Use AllTrails or a similar app to avoid getting lost.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trail is rocky and involves creek crossings, so good footwear is essential.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Adventure
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for a hike with your furry friend.
🚗 Drive Slowly on Dirt Road
The access road is dirt, so take your time and be mindful of other vehicles.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise See Canyon Trail for its stunning fall foliage, peaceful atmosphere, and dog-friendly nature. While the trail is generally family-friendly, some sections can be steep, and clear trail markings are lacking, making navigation a key consideration. The creek crossings add a unique element to the hike.
"We went Nov 1. Currently peak right now. Rough hike but we did with kids 8, 10, and 14. We didn’t finish the last 0.5 miles because it’s too steep for the kids (and us adults 🤣) but people told us beyond that is just pine trees and no more fall foliage. Very quiet trail, not many people even on a Sat. Crossed the creek 2x but nothing too extreme. The kids crossed by themselves. 7.4 miles in and out, 2000ft elevation gain according to AllTrails. There were very little to non trail marking so we went wrong way a few times. Trail is not always obvious so pls download area map or have AllTrails apps to assist. Parking is not a lot but not too bad. We got there around 11am and got parking right away. Love the fall 🍂🍁"
MiMi Phan
"Beautiful canyon hike that is family friendly, but there is one creek crossing. Was hoping to see some fall colors but I think we were a little early as of 10/18."
Derek Allen
"Beautiful hike! Very family and dog friendly, with plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the creek and the gorgeous fall foliage along the way."
Brittney McCallum
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
See Canyon Trail is located about 20 miles east of Payson, Arizona. Take State Route 260 E. The access road is a dirt road, so drive slowly and watch for other vehicles.
Yes, you can drive a sedan to See Canyon Trail, but the access road is dirt. It's recommended to drive slowly and be cautious.
Parking is available but can be limited. Arriving earlier in the day, especially on weekends, increases your chances of finding a spot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no mention of an entrance fee for See Canyon Trail. It's generally considered a free-to-access hiking area.
See Canyon Trail is an outdoor natural area and is typically accessible from dawn to dusk. There are no set operating hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The trail is generally considered moderate. While parts are family-friendly, the latter half can become quite steep, with a significant elevation gain.
The hike is approximately 7.4 miles roundtrip, with an elevation gain of around 2000 feet, according to AllTrails.
Trail markings are minimal to non-existent. It's highly recommended to download an offline map or use a navigation app like AllTrails to stay on course.
While you will cross the creek multiple times, it's not typically described as a swimming spot. It's more for enjoying the scenery and crossing during your hike.
Yes, See Canyon Trail is dog-friendly, but dogs must be kept on a leash.
📸 📸 Photography
The vibrant fall foliage in October is a major draw for photographers. The creek crossings and the canyon scenery also offer beautiful shots.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the canyon's textures and colors. Golden hour in the late afternoon also provides lovely lighting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit