Looking for a peaceful, uncrowded hike with a splash of adventure and a reward of creekside serenity? Box Canyon Hike near Payson, Arizona might just be your new favorite hidden trail
Overview of Box Canyon Hike in Payson, Arizona
Box Canyon is a quiet, lesser-known trail of Christopher Creek that offers a mix of forest walking, roadside paths, and a tranquil canyon ending with flowing water. It’s the kind of place where you can truly disconnect, listen to the sounds of nature, and not see another person the entire time.
This moderate, mostly flat hike transitions into a short, steep canyon section. It’s a great option for those looking for a half-day adventure off the beaten path.
How to Get There & Where to Park
- Location: Just off Highway 260, about 18 miles east of Payson.
- Landmarks: You’ll pass Kohl’s Ranch and park in a dirt lot before reaching the R-C Scout Ranch.
- Parking: There is no designated parking area, but you’ll see a wide dirt pull-off where others have parked before. Here are the approximate GPS location: 34.315576, -111.063789
- Navigation Tip: Because there are no official trail signs, using GPS or a hiking app (like AllTrails) is highly recommended. Approximate GPS location: 34.309110, -111.057274
Trail Description & What to Expect
After parking, you have two options:
- Roadside Start: Walk along the highway’s edge until you go up the small hill using GPS.
- Woods Path: Start before the highway by walking through the forest. This trail eventually meets the road and brings you to a gate and fence and then walk along the road.
- Once you find the door in the fence, go through it (be sure to close it behind you) and continue on the path that runs alongside the road.
Either Road or woods – Following GPS, to the not marked trail that goes up the small hill into the woods.
Eventually, you’ll come to another gate in the fence—this is your entry point to the creek trail. If you end up at the Boys Ranch, you’ve gone too far and need to backtrack along the fence to locate the gate.
The hike from there is relatively simple and flat until you reach the canyon area. As you descend toward Christopher Creek, the trail becomes steeper and can be slippery—especially if water is running.
When we visited in May 2025, there was water flowing in the creek, and we had the entire area to ourselves. It was quiet, peaceful, and incredibly refreshing.
Why We Love Box Canyon
- Solitude: We didn’t see a single other hiker during our visit—just birdsong, rustling leaves, and flowing water.
- Scenic Payoff: The end of the hike reveals a beautiful section of Christopher Creek where you can sit, relax, and soak in nature.
- Adventure Factor: Finding the gate and navigating the path makes it feel like a little secret trail for those in the know.
Recommended Hiking Gear
If you’re planning to check out Box Canyon for yourself, consider bringing these essentials:
- Lightweight Daypack – To carry your water and snacks.
- Sun Hat – Parts of the trail are exposed to full sun.
- Sunscreen – Parts of the trail are exposed to full sun.
- Hiking Shoes – Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip. The path down to the creek can be slick when wet.
- Water shoes – To wear if you will be going into the water
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Final Thoughts: Is Box Canyon Hike Worth It?
Absolutely. If you’re looking to escape the crowds and experience the natural beauty of the Payson area, the Box Canyon Hike delivers. It’s close to town but feels worlds away. Just be sure to bring your GPS, your gear, and your sense of adventure.
Have You Hiked Box Canyon or Discovered Another Hidden Gem?
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Looking for another great hike near here? Check out See Spring Trail.
