General George Crook

The General George Crook Trail is a trail that stretches over 138 miles and was once used as an old wagon road for pioneers. Today, it is a pawpular camping destination, and pedestrians use the 25 miles that are maintained by the US Forest Service for hiking and exploring. Dogs love the wide open spaces and leashed exploring. 

The trail follows the Mogollon Rim for an amazing panoramic vista of Arizona. The Mogollon Rim is thousands of feet high and hundreds of miles long, beginning in New Mexico and stretching out over two-thirds of Arizona. It is the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau and is definitely a sight you will not forget!

Part of the 25-mile maintained trail is considered to afford some of the most spectacular views in the entire state. The historic significance of the trail is also worth barking about -- General George Crook, a decorated Army officer who fought during the Civil War, once traveled these same roads with his wife and military wagons.

The present maintained section of the trail stretches between Dewey, near Prescott, and Cottonwood Wash, near Pinedale. Ranger stations are available so you can inquire as to what parts of the trail are well-marked. However, there are very limited amenities along the way. 

The elevation incline throughout the trail is not listed, but there are multiple steep rises to be aware of. When you and Fido get hot, you can cool off in one of the many lakes and rivers that abound along the trail. However, there are no beach areas and no lifeguards, so swim with caution!

If you hike the entire 138-mile trail you will go through three national forests: the Prescott, Coconino, and Apache-Sitgreaves. Be sure to keep Fido on a leash, as these forests are populated with many different types of wildlife as you walk through canyon country.

The Rim Visitor Center on SR 260, south of Heber, is your main source of information, so be sure to visit before starting your trek. With its huge expanse of land, you will need to find the major trailheads for parking. These are located at the Military Sinkhole and Al Fulton Point.