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Trip Details

Highline National Recreation Trail: 6-Day Guided Hiking & Camping Adventure in Arizona

Deposit: $500.00 - $1,950.00
Destination: The Highline National Recreation Trail, AZ
Trip Type: Hiking and Camping Trips
Season: Spring and Fall
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
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Highline National Recreation Trail: 6-Day Guided Hiking & Camping Adventure

Fully Supported Arizona Backcountry Hiking Trip – Mogollon Rim Region

Explore one of the most scenic and diverse hiking routes in the Southwest on this fully supported 6-day adventure along the iconic Highline National Recreation Trail. This guided hiking trip follows the base of the dramatic Mogollon Rim, where desert landscapes transition into cool pine forests, rugged canyon walls, and sweeping mountain views.

Your adventure begins near the mountain town of Payson, where guests meet guides before shuttling to the trailhead. From there, the journey unfolds along one of Arizona’s most iconic backcountry routes, combining long-distance hiking with the comfort of full logistical support.

Designed for hikers who want a true backcountry experience without the burden of carrying heavy packs, this trip combines the freedom of multi-day hiking with the ease of professional support. With small-group travel of just 9–12 hikers, you’ll enjoy expert guidance, reliable logistics, and the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in one of Arizona’s most beautiful wilderness regions.

What Makes This Adventure Special

Iconic Arizona Terrain and Scenic Diversity

Few trails showcase the variety of Arizona landscapes like the Highline Trail. As you hike beneath the towering cliffs of the Mogollon Rim, you’ll experience rolling terrain, shaded ponderosa pine forests, open desert vistas, and dramatic canyon scenery.

This route is widely considered one of the premier long-distance hiking destinations in the Southwest, offering solitude, elevation, and constantly changing scenery that keeps each day fresh and exciting.

Hike Light, Enjoy More

Daily hikes are completed with a light daypack while our guides manage transportation, camp logistics, and gear movement between camps. This slackpacking approach allows you to focus on the scenery, photography, and enjoyment of the trail rather than the physical strain of carrying a heavy backpack.

You’ll hike farther, feel stronger, and end each day with energy to relax and enjoy camp.

Comfortable Campsites and Relaxed Evenings

Each afternoon, you’ll arrive at a fully supported backcountry campsite where your gear is ready and waiting. Camps are chosen for their scenic beauty, peaceful surroundings, and convenient access to the trail.

Evenings are relaxed and social, with time to unwind, share stories from the day, and enjoy the quiet beauty of Arizona’s wilderness. Clear skies and remote locations often provide exceptional stargazing opportunities.

A True Backcountry Experience—Without the Heavy Pack

This trip offers the adventure of multi-day backcountry travel while maintaining a high level of comfort and support. Guests carry only daily essentials such as water, snacks, and extra layers while our support system transports tents, gear, and supplies between camps.

The result is a rewarding hiking experience that feels adventurous, achievable, and enjoyable from start to finish.

The Hiking Experience

The Highline Trail Beneath the Mogollon Rim

This unforgettable Arizona hiking route follows the base of the Mogollon Rim, one of the state’s most dramatic geographic features. The trail offers a unique perspective of Arizona’s landscapes, blending forest, canyon, and desert environments into a single continuous journey.

The trip begins with a morning meeting near Payson, a convenient gateway community located at the base of the Mogollon Rim. After introductions and a short orientation, guides shuttle the group to the trailhead to begin the adventure.

Expect:

  • Rolling elevation changes throughout the trip
  • Shaded pine forests mixed with open desert views
  • Scenic overlooks and expansive canyon scenery
  • Remote and peaceful backcountry camps
  • Varied terrain including dirt trail, rocky sections, and gradual climbs

Daily hikes typically range from 8–12 miles and last 4–7 hours, depending on pace, terrain, and group preference. Guides provide navigation, safety oversight, and encouragement throughout the journey, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Camp Life and Support

Comfortable Backcountry Camps

At the end of each day’s hike, you’ll arrive at a well-organized campsite designed for comfort and relaxation. Your tent and personal gear will be ready, allowing you to settle in quickly and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

These remote camps provide a genuine wilderness experience while maintaining the structure and support of a professionally guided trip.

A Welcoming Guest Tent and Camp Gathering Space

Our communal guest tent serves as the social hub of camp and includes:

  • Comfortable camp chairs
  • Coffee and tea station
  • Games and books
  • Cooler space for personal beverages

It’s the perfect place to relax after a rewarding day on the trail, connect with fellow hikers, and enjoy the quiet rhythm of backcountry travel.

Fresh Meals Prepared by Your Guides

Breakfast
Start each day with a hot breakfast, fresh coffee, and tea.

Lunch
Build-your-own trail lunches with fresh ingredients, snacks, and plenty of fuel for the day’s hike.

Dinner
Hearty, satisfying meals prepared by your guides each evening.

Dietary needs are easily accommodated, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

Who This Trip Is For

This trip is ideal for hikers who want to experience the beauty of Arizona’s backcountry on a fully supported, professionally guided adventure. It’s designed for active travelers who enjoy spending full days on the trail and exploring remote landscapes.

It’s perfect for:

  • Hikers seeking a guided multi-day hiking trip in Arizona
  • Guests who want a backcountry experience without carrying a heavy pack
  • Nature lovers drawn to scenic desert and forest landscapes
  • Travelers looking for a supportive small-group hiking environment
  • Adventurers interested in exploring one of Arizona’s most iconic trails

Participants should be comfortable hiking multiple days in a row on varied terrain, including rocky trail sections and gradual elevation changes.

Why Choose This Trip

Colorado Mountain Expeditions created this trip to showcase one of the Southwest’s most beautiful and underappreciated hiking routes. With more than 25 years of guiding experience, our team delivers safe, well-organized adventures that allow guests to focus on the experience rather than logistics.

Owners Emily and Dan personally guide many of our trips, providing hands-on leadership, deep knowledge of the trail, and a commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for every guest.

With small group sizes, reliable support, delicious meals, and expert guidance, this trip combines adventure, comfort, and authenticity for an unforgettable Arizona backcountry experience.

Reserve your spot today and experience the rugged beauty of the Highline Trail on this fully supported guided hiking adventure.

Meeting Location: Near Payson
Location: Highline National Recreation Trail, Arizona
Total Trip Cost: $1,950 per person

 

More Information

Overview of the Mogollon Rim
These hikes are along the Mogollon Rim, primarily south of it, running East/West.  The average elevation is about 5,000-6,000 feet above sea level.   It is truly a unique part of the Southwest,-this rim extends East-West over  200 miles and with  2,000 feet of vertical relief at times! Separating the lofty Colorado Plateau from the lower Sonoran Desert, it offers us a variety of terrain, vegetation and wildlife for our hikes.


Day Hike Distance (miles) Starting Trailhead Pick Up Trailhead Elevation Gain Elevation Loss Campsite
1 Meeting Day No hiking on First Day Bray Creek (FSR 439)
2 7.75 Pine Geronimo 1069 1000 Bray Creek (FSR 439)
3 9.3 Geronimo Washington Park 1181 537 Bray Creek (FSR 439)
4 16 Washington Park Fish Hatchery 1368 1706 Fish Hatchery (FSR 289C)
5 10.5 Fish Hatchery See Canyon (FSR 284) 1181 1235 Fish Hatchery (FSR 289C)
6 6.5 See Canyon (FSR 284) Two-Sixty 640 98 No Camping on Last Day
  50.05     5439 4576  
  ^Total Mileage     Total Gain ^ Total Loss ^  


Hiking Details
The trails that we will hike follow the Rim in an East-West direction.  This means the terrain is often rolling up and down through drainages.  The longest of these climbs are about 400-600 feet, many are less.  Total elevation gain/loss for our hiking days  will be between 1,200-2,000 cumulative feet.  We have planned hiking distances of about 10 miles per day, the longest day is about 15 miles and our final hiking day is shorter, about 6 miles.  Normally our day will consist of about 6-7 total hours on the trail, including rests and lunch.  We are  also be able to offer alternate, shorter hikes if some people prefer.  And there is always the option of a rest day and shorter walks around camp if you desire!   

Camping Details
Camping is on the Tonto National Forest, in dispersed sites.  The sites we use are spacious and due to our midweek use they are very quiet.  Initially we will bring you to a basecamp with we will use for the first part of the week.  Hikes will either be into/out of camp or have a short shuttle (15-30 minutes).  Midweek we will move camp, in order to be closer to the rest of our hiking.

We will have coffee/hot drinks available early every morning, and will follow up shortly after with a hot , hearty and healthy breakfast.  After breakfast, pick up your lunch bag and get ready for the hiking day.  Our trail guides will lead you during the day, on the trail and at breaks.  Once you return to camp, enjoy our hot shower, hot/cold drinks, community tent and chairs, and an appetizer.  We serve your “camp gourmet” dinner at about 6:00.  The evening is yours for socializing or enjoying  your own solitude.

Weather Forecast
The weather averages for late August are daytime highs in the mid-80s and morning lows in the 50s to low 60s. Be prepared for dry, sunny conditions and occasional breezes. And remember, there is always a chance of unexpected weather—storms, wind, or cooler temperatures.

The weather averages for April are daytime highs in the mid-70s and overnight lows in the upper-40s. Be prepared for dry, sunny conditions with occasional breezes. And remember, there is always a chance of unexpected weather—spring storms, wind, or cooler temperatures—so layering is key for comfort on the trail.

We can’t control the weather!
MEETING DIRECTIONS
Please leave a copy of this information with your emergency contact person.

Meeting Time    3:00 PM on meeting day
Meeting Place    Payson Church of the Nazarene
200 E. Tyler Parkway
Payson, AZ 85541

Directions:   The main north-south highway through Payson is  AZ Highway 87, aka the Beeline Highway.  There are two traffic circles on the Beeline Highway in Payson. The Church of the Nazarene is located just off of the northern traffic circle, go right. The Home Depot is located across the Beeline Highway, west of the Church of the Nazarene.   

Trip Ending
We should have you back to your vehicles at Payson Church of the Nazarene  at approximately 3:00 PM.  On the final day we will pack our tents and gear in the morning, before hiking.  We will do a slightly shorter hike on this day (7-10 miles), to accommodate our departure.  

EMERGENCY INFORMATION

Dan Weida – Field Manager
PHONE or TEXT: 970 531 0963
EMAIL: info@coloradotmountainexpeditions.com
Emily Weida – Office Manager
PHONE or TEXT: 970 509 0115

Welcome to your Highline National Recreation Trail adventure! We are thrilled that you’ll be joining us for a week of hiking through Arizona’s spectacular backcountry. This Welcome Package contains all the information you’ll need to prepare, including trip logistics, daily itinerary, and important safety tips.

Our goal is to provide a professionally guided, fully supported hiking experience so you can focus on the trail, the scenery, and the camaraderie of fellow hikers.

Dates: August 24–29, 2026
Trip Leader: Dan Weida, Owner of Colorado Mountain Expeditions
Contact: info@coloradomountainexpeditions.com | 970-531-0963
Number of Participants: Limited to 14

Trip Overview

  • Trail: Highline National Recreation Trail, Tonto National Forest, Arizona

  • Distance: Full trail coverage (~55 miles)

  • Terrain: Rolling high desert and pine forests with steady elevation changes

  • Daily Hiking: 8–14 miles, averaging ~6 hours per day

  • Camping: Comfortable backcountry camps, moved once during the trip

  • Weather: Morning lows in the 50s–low 60s, afternoon highs in the mid-80s. Expect dry, sunny conditions with occasional breezes.

This trip mirrors Colorado Mountain Expeditions’ Colorado Trail trips, providing a fully supported, safe, and fun hiking experience.

What to Bring

You’ll just need your own hiking clothes, shoes, tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and daypack. Colorado Mountain Expeditions provides everything else, including meals, camping gear, showers, and support on the trail. For a complete packing list, see the registration page.

Weather Notes

Late August in Arizona can be warm. Expect morning lows in the 50s–low 60s and afternoon highs in the mid-80s. Conditions are generally dry and sunny, but occasional storms, wind, or cooler temperatures are always possible. Please pack layers and be prepared for changing conditions.

Daily Schedule

Day 1 – Arrival & Orientation:

  • Meet at designated parking/meeting location

  • Gear check and orientation

  • Short hike or acclimation walk

Days 2–5 – Trail Hiking:

  • 8–14 miles per day, moderate difficulty

  • Daily breaks for lunch and photo stops

  • Return to camp each evening for showers, meals, and relaxation

Day 6 – Final Hike & Departure:

  • Complete final section of the trail

  • Shuttle back to starting point / departure

(Exact timing and mileage may vary slightly depending on trail conditions and group pace.)

Safety & Guidelines

  • Follow all guide instructions for safety and environmental protection

  • Stay hydrated and use sun protection

  • Pack out all trash—Leave No Trace principles

  • Notify guides of any medical conditions or concerns

Contact Information

For any questions before the trip, please reach out:

Trip Leader: Dan Weida, Owner of Colorado Mountain Expeditions

We look forward to hiking with you and showing you the beauty of the Highline National Recreation Trail!

Cancellation Policy

We would hate to see you go but if something does come up here is the cancellation policy. Should you need to cancel for any reason, we will apply the following cancellation policy: For cancellations prior to 60 days before departure, a $50 handling fee per person is retained and the remainder of your deposit is refunded. For cancellations 60-31 days before departure, 50% of your trip fees are refunded. For cancellations 30 days or less before departure, no monies are refundable.

Frequently Asked Questions

All of our guided trips are fully supported and all inclusive on the trail or on the scheduled adventure. This means the trip price typically includes:

  • Professional guiding from experienced staff who handle logistics and keep you safe and informed.
  • All meals and snacks throughout the trip, including breakfasts and dinners prepared for you and lunch fixings laid out each day.
  • Transportation during the adventure as outlined on the trip page.
  • Support for camping or basecamp gear logistics, such as transport of group gear and group camp setup at campsites or designated locations. (sorry, we don't setup your personal tent for you)

Note: Trip prices generally do not include your travel to/from the start location, personal gear (like hiking clothes or personal backpacks), lodging before or after the trip, or gratuities — unless specifically stated on the trip’s registration page.

Yes—very common. Across our hiking, biking, and art trips, a large percentage of our guests sign up solo. These experiences are designed to bring together people who share a passion for the outdoors and adventure, so you’ll be joining a group of like-minded individuals from day one. Our guides foster a welcoming, inclusive environment that makes it easy to connect—whether you’re on the trail, or relaxing back at camp.

We also regularly have couples and small groups of friends join our trips, which adds to the overall dynamic and makes each group unique. No matter how people arrive, everyone quickly blends into one cohesive group. There’s no pressure—just a supportive, social atmosphere where you can engage as much or as little as you’d like.

By the end of the week, it’s common for solo travelers to leave with new friendships and future adventure partners. Many guests find that coming alone actually enhances the experience, giving them the opportunity to fully immerse themselves and meet new people along the way.

Community Base Camp Tent

We offer a range of accommodations to suit different styles of adventure. Each trip’s registration page clearly states the accommodation style so you know exactly what to expect.

1. Backcountry Treks

  • Remote camping experience with no running water or electricity, but fully supported by our guides.
    • CME will truck in water and food to our backcountry sites. 
  • Guests bring their own tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad (rentals available if needed).
  • Camps include a large community tent for meals and socializing, along with camp chairs, plates, utensils, and mugs.
  • Breakfast and dinner are prepared by guides, and lunch fixings are provided for the trail.
  • Comfortable, well-organized camps make it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery after a day of hiking or biking.

2. Basecamp Hiking Trips

  • Camp is usually at established campgrounds with permanent restroom facilities.
  • Large communal tents are provided for meals and socializing.
  • Hot meals, camp chairs, and shared amenities are provided.
  • Offers a balance of adventure and comfort, with less setup than backcountry treks but still fully immersed in the outdoors.

3. Inn-Based Trips

  • Lodging in a guesthouse, lodge, or inn with running water, showers, and electricity.
  • Daily guided excursions with meals and logistical support included.
  • Ideal for travelers who prefer sleeping in a bed and returning to comfortable accommodations after each day’s activity.

4. Backpacking Trips

  • Guests carry their own gear and hike from campsite to campsite each day.
  • Meals, cooking gear, and campsite setup are often supported by guides or pre-arranged at trail shelters.
  • Provides a true self-sufficient adventure with the freedom to explore remote sections of trails like the Colorado Trail.
  • A great option for experienced hikers who enjoy a more active, immersive backcountry experience.

No matter which trip style you choose, all accommodations are designed to support your adventure and provide a welcoming, social environment for solo travelers, couples, or small groups of friends.

We’re happy to help! You can reach our team by phone or email to discuss any questions you have about the trip, including difficulty level, gear, accommodations, or anything else you’re curious about. Our goal is to make sure you feel fully prepared and confident before your adventure. 

You can call CME owner Dan at 970-531-0963
Or send us an email at Info@ColoradoMountainExpeditions.com

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