Sycamore Canyon OHV Trail
2-Hour Route
Sycamore Canyon OHV Trail Overview
Outside of Sedona, Cottonwood, and Jerome is a 4×4 trail that gives access to Sycamore Canyon trail (FR-131) and the Verde River. Sycamore Canyon is known to be the second largest canyon in Arizona, not for the depth but how wide the canyon is at points. The Verde River offers river access points to cool off in the warm Arizona desert. Sycamore Canyon Road (FR-131) is a unique trail that is one way and out, with a turn off option to connect with all west Sedona trails.
Overall this is a dirt road that becomes rough, especially getting into the start of Sycamore Canyon to which you get a unique green side of Arizona, with gorgeous desert views in every direction. At the end of FR-131 is the popular Parson hiking trail, a popular area to hike into the canyon, and potentially a waterhole 1.5 miles up Sycamore Creek.
While out on Sycamore Canyon trail there are a few side routes to add on that are well worth it. FR-9505 gives you a scenic view over a cliffside of the Verde River and the beginning of Sycamore Canyon. FR-9509 gives you a quick out-and-back route on a “true” desert trail that offers a mix of red-rock and limestone, and cactus throughout the route, enjoyable for all. FR-9515 is a longer out-and-back route offering a scenic overlook into S.O.B. canyon, to which the Verde River and railroad are found on the opposite side of the river. All of these side routes are well worth a
Difficulty Rating
Sycamore Canyon Trail (FR-131) is a novice 4×4 trail that is easily accessed by Tuzigoot National Monument in Clarkdale. Mainly rough dirt roads, the canyon and river views are well worth the ride for all, regardless of off-roading experience level. Though Sycamore Canyon trail is not as rough as other trails offered in the area, it is a very secluded option if you do not care for crowds. You typically do not get red-rock views of Sedona unless you take FS-258 to connect with west Sedona trails.
Off-Road Vehicle Access
Though mainly dirt road, Sycamore Canyon trail is advisable to use 4×4 vehicles, such as side-by-sides, jeeps, ATVs, and motorcycles. Low clearance vehicles can typically make it through the majority of this route, but are discouraged due to potential trail damage, bottoming out, and possible washouts running when weather arises. Caution is urged regardless as though most sections are smooth and less technical, certain segments getting into the canyon can randomly come about that pose risks without proper maneuvering.
Getting To Sycamore Canyon OHV Trail
Sycamore Canyon Trail (FR-131) is accessed by going through Old Town Cottonwood, turning right on Tuzigoot Road and left on Sycamore Canyon Road (TR-131). There’s 3 miles of pavement before going over a cattle guard and turning into dirt road and 4×4 riding. From that point on it should be an easy out-and-back route with the exception of the last, rough section getting into the parking lot of Sycamore Canyon, also known as Parson’s Trail.
