Stewart Pocket - Balanced Rock Loop, AZ

Sedona has its well-known Red Rocks, but few know how beautiful Payson's Pink Rocks can be. Stewart's Pocket area may very well rival Sedona for its scenic beauty. Flanked by Stewart Ridge on the South and the Mogollon Rim on the north, it not only contains the unique boulder formations of Granite Dells but numerous peaks or knolls, many topped by pink rocks.


Hike
This lasso loop hike on the south side of Stewart Pocket / Granite Dells may be another one of Payson's best hikes. Going counter-clockwise on the loop portion, this loop initially uses Stewart Pocket - South Loop trail that climbs steeply 1/2 way up Stewart Ridge and then meanders along the grade in and out of the cool forest and rock formations. The views north of the Dells, knolls, and Mogollon Rim are fabulous!After 1.44 miles, right where SP S Loop turns N and descends, this extended loop branches off up to the Right (South). The intersection is somewhat hidden, but after 20 feet, the trail is well established. Just look around for it. The trail continues up & down east, but holding grade and following the rim contour. Soon you will see the huge Balanced Rock to your North / East. You can not miss it. After 1 mile from the SP S loop junction, after passing the Balanced Rock, the trail makes a descending 180-degree turn and passes even closer to the Balanced Rock (and near the upper S side of this trail loop.) After another 0.9 miles, the trail rejoins the SP S loop and continues back to the trailhead. This trail is primo for mountain biking. Throw in that the trail can not get muddy, seldom used, pretty shady, and no ATVs or dust, and you gotta luv it!

History
This trail was beautifully laid out and constructed by Payson's forest mountain bike gnomes. Unfortunately, they are a bit protective of the trail and try to keep the intersections with the SP S trail hidden (like they tried to do with that loop before many hikers discovered that loop...) Shame - this loop extension is too beautiful and so well constructed and laid out. Everyone should enjoy and appreciate the gnomes' efforts!

Water Sources
seasonal small flows

Camping
National Forest land

2016-07-28 donqcryer