Sycamore Basin Trail

Sycamore Basin Trail #63 is a long-distance out-and-back hike in Sycamore Canyon Wilderness near Clarkdale/Williams, Arizona, with dirt as the mapped surface. The route runs as the main thoroughfare through the wilderness, following Sycamore Canyon for part of the hike.

Plan on a strenuous/ challenging day. Public route lengths run about 10.0 to 14.4 miles out-and-back depending on where you turn around, with elevation gain reported roughly in the 1,250 to 1,820 ft range and a typical turnaround-based range of distances.

The wilderness character is more rugged than a standard day hike: the trail can be hard to follow in portions, and navigation matters if you’re not sticking to well-worn tread. Expect more than just moderate elevation changes—there are steep grades and a low point around 4,312 ft in published route summaries.

Water and shade are limited. In summer months there’s no dependable water along the trail, so build your plan around carrying enough for the full turnaround you choose.

Access and constraints reflect wilderness use: the route is open to hikers and horseback riders, and motorized vehicles aren’t allowed in the wilderness area. If you’re riding/bringing stock is relevant to your group, this is also one reason to treat the route as non-motorized only.

Seasonality matters in this canyon country. The route’s best window is generally September through May; summer heat is described as extreme and not recommended for typical hikers.

More information: Visitor information, Strolling Sycamore Canyon Wilderness May, 2020, Sycamore Basin Trail | Williams | Arizona