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Houston Mesa Nature Trail
4.9 ★★★★★ 20 Google reviews · Running trail in Payson, Arizona · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
We have not been able to confirm the surface, distance or shape of Houston Mesa Nature Trail yet from its own listing, the park's website or runner reviews — so those cells stay blank rather than guess. What is below comes straight from the listing and from reviewers' own words. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about Houston Mesa Nature Trail
This is just 10 minutes inside the campground trail, with lots of informational signage about local trees and bushes ,very easy and short walks.
* Great camping close to Payson. * minutes away to gas and Bridge. * Elks and many other parts of nature close to the Campgrounds. * Close to the Campgrounds, hikes, creeks, Indian ruins, and Tonto natural bridge.
A cool trail with wonderful views. It's a bit rocky as you get further up. Well worth the time to explore.
It's a nice trail. Easy sometimes and a little bit challenging sometimes. Some areas have deep ruts in the trail, there are a few fairly steep grades here and there, and rocks of all sizes on the trail. There are a few places where you have to open and close a barb wire fence. Not difficult.
Trail conditions & character
“* Close to Payson * Clean bathrooms * Easy access water in bathrooms * Great layout of the campsites.”
Plan your run at Houston Mesa Nature Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadrestrooms — reported by runners
- Phone+1 917-936-0635
Running trails near Payson
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Cypress Trail
4.7 ★★★★★ 127 reviews
Kid-friendly hiking area with a variety of trails that lead to scenic views.
First Crossing Day Use Area
4.6 ★★★★★ 82 reviews
Hiking area with a picnic spot and a creek.