The Groom Creek Loop Trail #307 takes to the top of Spruce Mountain where the fire tower is located. The north path is steep and about 3 1/2 miles to the top and the south path is a more gradual and meanders through the forest so is about 5 1/2 miles long. The elevation gain on this hike is almost 1500 feet.
Access to the trail-head is off of Senator Highway about 6 miles south of Prescott. The trail-head is well marked and there is a large parking area and bathrooms. This is popular hike on weekends and is also popular for horseback riding.
Access to the trail-head is off of Senator Highway about 6 miles south of Prescott. The trail-head is well marked and there is a large parking area and bathrooms. This is popular hike on weekends and is also popular for horseback riding.
I took the steep route to the top this time, but I think going the more gradual route would be a better choice for next time. There are some great views along the way and most of the view are through the trees. The picture to the right is of Granite Mountain. Make sure you stop when you look at the views or you are likely to trip on the path over a rock or tree root.
If you do this trail in the morning, you will be in the mountain's shadow or tree shade for most of the hike.
When you reach the top of Spruce Mountain, there are picnic tables and a rest room (no water). You can stop at the fire tower to see if the keeper is open for visitors. I did not check on this trip, but have toured the tower on a previous hike.
If you do this trail in the morning, you will be in the mountain's shadow or tree shade for most of the hike.
When you reach the top of Spruce Mountain, there are picnic tables and a rest room (no water). You can stop at the fire tower to see if the keeper is open for visitors. I did not check on this trip, but have toured the tower on a previous hike.
The hike is just under 10 miles total and took me about 3 1/2 hours. I like this hike for the picnic stop at the top of Spruce Mountain. I like this hike and rate it 4 and a half boots.