5-30,31 Tonto Hatchery road to Horton Creek loop

[ALMAL]

I went to Tonto creek a few weeks ago and slayed about 60 trout in three hours. The creek was just loaded. I want to head up on Monday morning (yeah I know it's a holiday) most of the traffic will be headed the other direction. Arrive at the hatchery road by 8AM. Bypass the hoards of "twice a year campers". Fish along the way to the hatchery parking lot. Stow my catch on ice in the truck. Park at the hatchery. Hike the Highline trail over to Horton springs for lunch. Hike downstream a mile or so and find a good campsite. Sling the hammock. Spend the afternoon relaxing and catching wild browns. Next day finish the loop by hiking down to the Tonto, Horton confluence and back up the road to the hatchery parking lot. Should be able to catch more rainbows before reaching the truck. This is not a strenuous hike by any means, but hey, it's a holiday so I plan on relaxing. Plus, you avoid that arduous drive back to Phoenix Monday evening by postponing it until Tuesday.

New parking regulations are in effect for this area. If you want to park in the trailhead parking lot, or any parking lot you will need a permit ($8 per day or $55 per year). The permits can be purchased at the Horton creek campground from the host or you can self pay on site. Parking anywhere along the road or at the hatchery is still FREE. They have also opened up the lower parking area right off 260 as another campground for tent camping only. I believe the cost is $14 same as upper Horton campground.

[Nighthiker]

Thanks for the info, enjoy the area during the week not so busy.