Horton Creek Trail, Arizona

I was surprised to find so much water and greenery here, on the Horton Creek Trail near Kohl's Ranch (near Payson) Arizona.  

The trail's a popular and mostly easy 4 miles one way to the "spring" where the water gushes out of the rock, having filtered down from the Mogollon Rim, as I understand it.  It's pretty cool.  

Much of the trail is away from this beautiful creek, but there are plenty of unofficial trails down near the water and cool places to duck down and play in the tiny falls or explore the banks on your own.  You can also find cool stone campsites and other treats. 

To get to the trailhead, drive on Highway 260 between Payson and Heber, Arizona.  When you get to Kohl's Ranch, take the turnoff to the north.  The sign says something about Tonto Creek.  Drive about a mile or so to the Derrick Trailhead, where you can park.  There's also an outhouse and picnic tables there, if you just want to stop for lunch.  The trail leaves from just up the road at the Upper Tonto Creek Campground (walk through the campground to find the trailhead).    

This trail can probably be fairly hot in the summer, but in mid October when I went, it was perfect. There were also a few trees turning colors.