MOTIVATED: Derrick-Highline-Horton Creek Loop

Hike Leader: Karl Zimmer
Cell Phone 858 382-5291
Hike Category: Motivated
Hike Title: Derrick – Highline - Horton Creek Loop
Date: April 20, 2026
Trailhead: Derrick TH: From Payson take 260 East for 16 miles to FR289 which is Tonto Creek Road. Turn left on to FR289 and follow about 0.8 mile to Horton Creek TH lot (on left as you cross the bridge on Tonto Creek). There is an outhouse at this lot.

Description: Derrick Trail #33 2.5 miles to junction with Highline Trail #31. Then, a little over 3 miles on Highline Trail north to junction with Horton Creek Trail #285. Then 4 miles back to Trailhead.
The Derrick Trail itself is probably not worthy of its own write-up, it does offer some outstanding views of Promontory Butte and the Rim, a good workout and access to a nice section of the Highline Trail. Most importantly, it is a pleasant change of pace from the usual out and back hike to Horton Spring. The ascent is steady, and we’ll stop occasionally and soak in the wonderful views of the Rim. As the trail climbs toward Promontory Butte, it becomes lined with Manzanita mixed in with the ever present Ponderosa and Junipers. At 2.5 mi, Derrick intersects the Highline Trail. The right branch continues down the hill and southeast to Christopher Creek. Take the left branch which contours Promontory Butte as it threads its way to Horton Spring. This is a very pleasant section of the Highline. As a matter of fact, if it wasn't for the beauty of the waterfalls and cascades in Horton Creek itself, this would be the highlight of the loop. The trail gently rises and falls, sometimes a bit steeply, but nothing too taxing. The Ponderosa Pines close around you and the area retains that euphoric scent of pine pitch in the light high country air. This is Rim hiking at its finest. OPTIONAL EARLY DINNER IN PAYSON!
Hike Distance: 9.6 miles
Trailhead Elevation: 5400 ft. (Max trail elevation 6900 ft.)
AEG: ~1900 ft.
Driving Distance: 222 miles R/T
Driver’s fee: $19.00
Trailhead facilities: restrooms
MEETUP: 5:30 AM at Cottonwood Flagpole parking lot