Things to Do around Payson
Payson is a region in Arizona, situated at an elevation of 5,000 feet, often referred to as the "Heart of Arizona's Rim Country." It is surrounded by the world's largest contiguous ponderosa pine forest, providing a distinct natural setting. The area's diverse landscape, including the majestic Mogollon Rim, offers varied terrain suitable for several sports like hiking, jogging, road cycling, and mountain biking. This unique geography makes Payson a notable destination for outdoor pursuits.
Things to Do in Payson
Payson…
23
Routes
4.5
(7)
Average rating
169
People visited
24.4km
06:12
60m
70m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.34km
00:28
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.06km
01:28
400m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
66.6km
19:05
1,650m
1,540m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1
runners
6.24km
00:52
230m
230m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
runners
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
runners
9.73km
01:00
30m
30m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
runners
12.1km
01:16
130m
130m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(2)
65
riders
49.5km
02:06
210m
210m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
19
riders
56.1km
03:11
1,270m
1,270m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
13
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
6
riders
33.6km
01:27
190m
190m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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4.0
(1)
8
riders
10.5km
01:01
210m
210m
Hard mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
1
riders
12.1km
01:26
430m
430m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
2
riders
22.9km
02:22
590m
580m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
Nearby adventure guides
Natural areas to explore nearby
Frequently asked questions
What outdoor activities are available in Payson?
Payson offers a variety of outdoor activities, including Hiking, Jogging, Road cycling, and Mountain biking. The region features diverse terrain, from ponderosa pine forests to the Mogollon Rim. There are routes available for various skill levels across these sports.
What is the elevation of Payson, Arizona?
Payson is situated at an elevation of 5,000 feet (1,524 meters). This elevation contributes to its cooler climate compared to lower desert areas. It is often referred to as the 'Heart of Arizona's Rim Country'.
Are there hiking trails in Payson?
Payson provides a range of hiking trails, from moderate to strenuous. Notable trails include Horton Creek Trail and segments of the Arizona Trail. For more information on local hiking, refer to the Hiking around Payson guide.
Are there mountain biking trails in Payson?
Payson offers mountain biking trails for all skill levels, integrated into the Payson Area Trails System (PATS). Trails like the Boulder Loop and Cypress Loop provide varied terrain and scenic views. Further details can be found in the MTB Trails around Payson guide.
Are there road cycling routes in Payson?
Payson features the Payson Area Road Cycling System (PARCS), an easy-to-navigate system within the town. These routes offer scenic views of the surrounding landscape. Information on road cycling is available in the Road Cycling Routes around Payson guide.
Are there jogging or running trails in Payson?
Payson offers various options for jogging and running, including detached pathways, sidewalks, and bike lanes within the town. These connect to more rustic Forest Service roads and trails on the periphery. The Running Trails around Payson guide provides specific route information.
What are the main natural features in the Payson area?
Key natural features include the Mogollon Rim, a 200-mile-long escarpment offering dramatic views. The region is also home to Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, featuring one of the largest natural travertine bridges. Vast ponderosa pine forests surround Payson, contributing to its distinct environment.
Are there easy or family-friendly trails in Payson?
Payson offers trails suitable for beginners and families, including options within the Payson Area Trails System (PATS). These trails provide accessible outdoor experiences. The Easy hikes around Payson guide lists specific routes.
How popular is Payson for outdoor activities on komoot?
Payson has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from more than 200 visitors on komoot. The region features 3 routes, with 2 dedicated to hiking and 1 to road cycling, reflecting its appeal to outdoor enthusiasts.
What is the Mogollon Rim?
The Mogollon Rim is a prominent geological feature, a 200-mile-long escarpment that forms the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau. It drops as much as 2,000 feet (610 meters) in some areas, providing extensive scenic views and a cooler climate.
What is Tonto Natural Bridge State Park?
Tonto Natural Bridge State Park is home to one of the largest natural travertine bridges in the world. The park offers picturesque views and hiking trails that lead to and around this impressive natural archway.
How can one contact the Town of Payson?
The official website for the Town of Payson is Payson, AZ | Home. For general inquiries, the Town Hall Switchboard can be reached at +1-928-474-5242.
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