MEADOW TRAIL # 505
MEADOW TRAIL # 505
Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest
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| A pond on the Meadow Trail |
Taking a walk in the forest
shouldn't be limited to the young and fleet of foot. High on the edge
of the Mogollon Rim north of Payson, two paved trails combine for
more than 5 miles of barrier free exploring. Both are suitable for
wheelchairs, strollers and walkers so everybody can wander under the
pines regardless of their mobility issues. Well known Rim Vista Trail
#622 traces limestone escarpments overlooking rambling valleys of
coniferous forests and distant mountain vistas. This popular route
can be accessed from any of the viewpoint parking lots located along
the first three miles of Forest Road 300. Meadow Trail #505
intersects Rim Vista at the Woods Canyon Vista trailhead and offers a
less crowded option. Located within Woods Canyon Lake Recreation
Area, Trail #505 parallels the busy access road, passing several
campgrounds on its way to the lake.
The well-signed route
encompasses pine-oak woodlands, sunny meadows, myriad wildflowers,
two rustic bridges and a good chance to see wildlife skulking along
the margins of a swampy pond.
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| Bridge on the Meadow Trail |
Upon its approach to the lake, the
trail makes a gentle descent to land at a country store where you can
purchase a day use permit if you want to continue exploring the more
difficult Woods Canyon Lake Trail #336 that makes a 3 mile loop
around the lake or rent a kayak for a cooling glide over the water.
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| Rim Vista Trail at the edge of the Mogollon Rim |
LENGTH:
Meadow Trail: 1.8 miles one way
Rim Vista Trail: 3.5 miles one way
RATING: easy/barrier free
ELEVATION: 7,540' � 7,640'
GETTING THERE:
From Payson, go 29 miles east on State
Route 260 to Forest Road 300 (Rim Road), turn left and continue 3
miles to the Woods Canyon Vista trailhead on the left. The trail
begins across the road.
INFO: Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest
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