Jail Trail

Starting at the public parking area in Old Town Cottonwood, the historic jail with interpretive signage is where the parking lot, main street, and the trail intersect. The short sandy trail T’s before the river where visitors can continue along either direction of the river and get to the river via smaller trails. The area offers shade, water play, non-motorized boat access, disc golf, birding and connects to other parks along the river.

Site Information

Region: North Central

County: Yavapai

Directions: This easily accessible trail through dense riparian forest connects Old Town Cottonwood with Riverfront Park and the Verde River. Parking and trail head is at: 1101 N Main Street Cottonwood, AZ 86326

Latitude: 34.749031
Longitude: -112.029147

Operational Hours: Open all year, 24 hours a day

Admission or Fees: None

Best time to visit: Year round

Habitats: Stream or river, Urban or Suburban park

Know Before You Go

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

Speciality: Bridled Titmouse, Costa’s Hummingbird, Gilded Flicker, Hepatic Tanager, Hooded Oriole, Juniper TItmouse, Woodhouse’s Scrub-jay, Yellow-billed Cuckoo

Charismatic: Cactus Wren, Greater Roadrunner, Lesser Nighthawk, White-winged Dove

Contact Information

City of Cottonwood, Verde Greenway
Arizona State Parks
1101 N Main St
Cottonwood, AZ 86326

Phone: 877-697-2757

Website: https://azstateparks.com/dead-horse/

Email:

Additional Resources

Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/hotspot/L2714898

Additional Resources:

National Geographic article
Verde Birding Trail
Arizona Watchable Wildlife Experience (AWWE) Tour

Image Gallery