Sycamore Canyon
Located twelve miles north of Clarkdale, Sycamore Canyon provides a year-round riparian corridor. It is the second largest canyon in Arizona and is marked by colorful red rock cliffs and a verdant perennial stream, Sycamore Creek.
This site is part of Coconino National Forest and because Sycamore Canyon has a wilderness designation no bicycles, strollers, etc. are allowed.
Parsons Trail is a four-mile route that will take you from the parking lot, along the canyon floor until you reach Parsons Spring where water flows from an underground source and forms a small pond. This creates the creek which you will have crossed up to six times on your journey.
Fortunately, it is not necessary to hike the entire four-miles. The riparian corridor stretches the entire length of the creek and you can bird as much or as little as you wish.
Site Information
Region: North Central
County: Yavapai
Directions: Sycamore Canyon Road starts near Tuzigoot National Monument (located just outside Clarkdale) and stretches 11.6 miles until you reach the parking lot. Approximately half of the road is unsurfaced and can be somewhat rocky.
Latitude: 34.867536
Longitude: -112.068156
Operational Hours:
Admission or Fees: None
Best time to visit: The best times to visit are during spring and fall migration seasons when birds use the canyon as a corridor for food and water.
Habitats: Stream or river
Know Before You Go
The trail follows the canyon floor and crosses the creek several times. Typically, these crossing are just “wet shoe” experiences. However, during monsoon or winter storms, the creek becomes unpassable. Do not attempt it is there is any risk of flooding.
Safety First! Arizona has many beautiful places to explore and we’d like to help you make it a safe and enjoyable experience. Check out our recommendations for hiking precautions.
Species Highlights
Rare: Black-capped Gnatcatcher
Speciality: Abert’s Towhee, Acorn Woodpecker, Canyon Wren, Clark’s Nutcracker, Common Black Hawk, Ladder-backed Woodpecker, Painted Redstart
Charismatic: Anna’s Hummingbird, Gila Woodpecker, Summer Tanager
Contact Information
Flagstaff Ranger DIstrict
Coconino National Forest
5075 N Highway 89
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Phone: 928-526-0866
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/coconino/about-forest/offices
Additional Resources
Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/hotspot/L4975990
