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ForestMatters, LLC

Woodchute Wilderness Trail

Prescott National Forest, Arizona · 3 min read

Distance
7 mi
Elevation Gain
1,200 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
March through November
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
5 / 10
Trailhead Amenities
Restroom
None
Parking
Free
Cell Service
Limited
Water
None
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • High mesa terrain with sweeping Verde Valley views
  • Views of the red rock country near Sedona and Oak Creek
  • Woodchute Wilderness — one of the Prescott Forest's least-visited
  • Proximity to Jerome historic mining town for a cultural day trip

Overview

The Woodchute Wilderness sits above Jerome on a high, flat mesa that the Prescott National Forest has protected from development while the historic copper mining town below has transformed into one of Arizona's most visited small towns. The irony works in hikers' favor: the high mesa trail above Jerome is among the least-crowded in the Prescott Forest, despite being 5 minutes from a town that draws hundreds of visitors on most weekends.

The 7-mile out-and-back traverses the Woodchute mesa through ponderosa pine and pinyon-juniper terrain. The primary draw is the views: the Verde Valley spreads below to the east, with Sedona's distinctive red rock formations visible in the middle distance on clear days and the San Francisco Peaks on the northern horizon. This is one of the wider-angle views in central Arizona, a landscape-level vantage that rewards the modest 1,200-foot climb.

Many hikers carry 2 liters of water for this route; no water sources exist on the mesa; individual needs vary. The trailhead elevation is around 6,500 feet, making summer mornings comfortable. Afternoon thunderstorms from July through September require early starts.

The Route

Miles 0 to 2.5: From the trailhead above Jerome, the trail climbs through the upper ponderosa zone onto the Woodchute mesa. The grade is steady and moderate. The Verde Valley views appear quickly on the east-facing sections of the approach.

Miles 2.5 to 4.5: The route traverses the mesa through pinyon-juniper woodland interspersed with open grassland benches. This is the most distinctive terrain on the hike: the mesa top has a high-plateau character unlike the mountain terrain more typical of Arizona wilderness areas. The expansive views make this the best section for photography.

Miles 4.5 to 7.0 (return): Retrace the route. The return trip descends consistently toward Jerome.

When to Visit

March through November. The mesa elevation (6,000-7,000 feet) makes this one of the more seasonally flexible trails in the Prescott Forest. Spring and fall are the most visually rewarding seasons. Summer mornings are comfortable, though afternoon monsoon storms require early start times.

Combining the hike with a stop in Jerome works best on weekday visits, when the town is quieter and parking is available.

What to Bring

  • Water: many hikers carry 2 liters; no sources on the mesa; individual needs vary
  • Camera: the Verde Valley view is the signature element of this trail
  • Sun protection for the exposed mesa terrain
  • Layers for the exposed high ground where wind is common
  • Rain gear for afternoon storms

Review Leave No Trace 7 principles. The wilderness character of the mesa depends on visitors staying on trail and packing out all waste.

Practical Details

No fee required at this trailhead as of 2026. No wilderness permit required. Dispersed camping is permitted on the mesa.

Cell service is limited on the mesa and better near Jerome. Download offline maps before heading to the trailhead.

Getting There

From Jerome: Head northwest on AZ-89A toward Prescott. The FR 318 junction and trailhead signage appear approximately 2 miles above Jerome on the right (north) side of the highway. The gravel road is short and suitable for standard vehicles.

From Prescott: Take AZ-89A northeast approximately 25 miles to the Clarkdale/Jerome area. Continue through Jerome and look for the FR 318 junction above town.

Check current conditions and fire restrictions with the Verde Ranger District. See checking conditions before you go for resources.

Trailhead Parking

Woodchute Trailhead on FR 318 off AZ-89A above Jerome. Gravel lot with room for 15-20 vehicles. No facilities.

← Back to Prescott National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Woodchute Wilderness located?
The Woodchute Wilderness sits above the historic mining town of Jerome in the northern Prescott National Forest. The mesa is the broad, forested high ground between the Verde Valley and the high country toward Prescott.
Can I combine Woodchute with a visit to Jerome?
Yes, and this makes for an excellent day. Jerome is 5 minutes below the trailhead on AZ-89A, with galleries, restaurants, and the historic mining infrastructure worth exploring. Many visitors pair the morning hike with an afternoon in Jerome.
Is the Woodchute Trail crowded?
No. Despite Jerome's high tourist traffic, the Woodchute Trail sees relatively few hikers. Most Jerome visitors don't make it to the trailhead above town.
What are the views like from Woodchute Wilderness?
The Verde Valley stretches out below to the east and south, with Sedona's red rock formations visible in the distance on clear days. The view is dramatically different from the usual canyon-and-summit Arizona hiking perspective.