Houston Mesa Road-Payson

GeorgAZ · Post by **GeorgAZ** » Jul 14 2002 11:46 am

Does anyone know if the area off Houston Mesa Rd. is open? I guess it's still part of the Tonto,but I just wondered if you can go up there just to hang out by the Verde. It would be so nice to jump in a nice COOL creek or river!

Nighthiker · Post by **Nighthiker** » Jul 15 2002 7:11 am

I was advised on friday by the Tonto National Forest Office in Phx that it was open to the control road. Contacting the Payson Ranger District I was advised that it was closed. If you are in the area visit Waterwheel (see HazTrail Index) located along the Houston Mesa Road. Further up visit the upper portion of Verde Glen. Near the private property is a nice place to get in the creek (pine tree setting). North of Payson on AZ 87 just before you get to the East Verde, turn onto forest road 272 to Flowing Springs. Cross the East Verde and go up the road past the ford to just south of the private property is a good segment of the East Verde (riparian woodland setting).

GeorgAZ · Post by **GeorgAZ** » Jul 15 2002 8:37 am

Thanks Nighthiker! I do like that area.After all they rain we've had,maybe things will open up a bit!