PAYSON FALL COLOR REPORT 2011: MOGOLLON RIM

Here's one of my favorite "top of the Rim" hikes north of Payson. Part of the forest service Cabin Loop Trail System, this woodsy hike features lots of ups-and-downs, cool, windy conditions and some really great maple stands where the trail ducks into canyons. Check out the link below for a map and other access points.  Color is peaking now---hurry before the first frost arrives!

BARBERSHOP TRAIL #91

LENGTH: 4.5 miles one way

RATING: moderate

ELEVATION: 7,200 – 7,600 feet

PEAK COLOR: early to late October

GETTING THERE: From the intersection of SR87 and SR260 in Payson, go east (right) on SR260 and drive 30 miles to Rim Road (Forest Road 300, which is located across from the Rim Visitor Center). Follow FR 300 for 23 miles to Forest Road 137. Turn right on FR 137 and drive 4 miles to the trailhead, which is located across the road from Buck Springs Cabin. FR300 is maintained dirt--usually ok for passenger cars but with a few dodgy spots.

INFO: Coconino National Forest, Mogollon Rim Ranger District, (928) 477-2255,

http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino/recreation/mog_rim/barbershop-tr.shtml

Typical view along Forest Road 300 "Rim Road"