Kelsey Springs Trail #3, AZ

Overview
From the Kelsey trailhead, you immediately descend into a shady forested canyon of Ponderosa Pine mixed with Douglas-Fir, Gambel Oak, and juniper trees. Most of the length of the trail is gradual up and down with only a few short steep areas. Along the trail, water can be obtained, usually year-round, at Kelsey Spring, Babes Hole Spring, Dorsey Spring, and Winter Cabin Spring. There are many spectacular panoramic views of Sycamore Canyon as you hike along the trail. Kelsey Winter Trail and the Dorsey Spring trails make a great 7.3-mile day hike loop. The Kelsey Winter trail terminates at the junction of Winter Cabin Trail.


Sycamore Canyon can be very hot and dry during the summer months. There are several springs located near the Wilderness trails, which generally have water year-round. Still, hikers should not depend on this water being available, and all groundwater should always be treated or filtered. There is plenty of shade along all of the trails as you descend into Sycamore Canyon through a thick forest of Ponderosa Pine, Gambel Oak, and Juniper trees. The lower part of Winter Cabin Trail and part of Kelsey Trail takes you through chaparral-type vegetation that offers spectacular Sycamore Canyon views.Sycamore Canyon is the second largest canyon in Arizona and offers hikers plenty of solitude and natural beauty.

2018-07-14 HAZ_Hikebot