Crackerjack, Payson

Gear up for an action-packed Valley Jeepsters Adventure along the Crackerjack Trail near Payson, where tall ponderosa pines give way to phenomenal rugged high-desert canyon views and thrilling off-road challenges. Navigating deep into Tonto National Forest, this route blends smooth forest roads with technical rock ledges, boulder-strewn washes, and scenic creek crossings that will put your 4WD capabilities to the test. Highlights along the way include historic mining ruins, sweeping backcountry vistas, and plenty of spots to flex your suspension while catching up with fellow club members. Whether you are looking to sharpen your technical driving skills or just enjoy a solid day on the trail with a great crew, Crackerjack delivers the ideal mix of scenery and light obstacle-packed fun.

This is a medium trail rated at 4 and is suitable for stock Jeeps with offroad tires. It is a one-way trail, approximately 13 miles and with lunch break it should take us around 4 hours to complete. The first 9 miles or so are pretty easy on an unpaved road. Remaining 4 miles are on a rocky shelf road with optional level 5 obstacles. The final descent is over volcanic lava rocks.

We will meet up at the Gas Station located at 2010 N Beeline Hwy, Payson, AZ 85541 and drive short 3 miles to the trailhead from there. After you fill up, please park at the Home Depot parking lot across from the gas station.

As always, please arrive with a full tank of gas at the designated meeting spot and be ready for a prompt departure. If you’re running late, please let us know by posting or messaging in the Meetup App. If your plans change and you’re unable to attend, please promptly remove yourself from the event so that others on the standby list can take your place.

Trails Offroad Description
AllTrails Description

YOUTUBE Video #1
YOUTUBE Video #2

Event Type: 1 Day Adventure
AZ Pinstriping: Minimum
Difficulty: Solid 4
Camping: None
Jeep Requirements: Stock Jeeps with offroad tires.
Equipment Requirements: Full Gas Tank, Spare Tire, inflation/deflation tools, drinks/lunch, Sense of Adventure
Radio: GMRS Radio Chanel #15.