Railroad Tunnel Trail - Hiking near Payson, Arizona

Railroad Tunnel Trail - Hiking near Payson, Arizona
Trail #390 (Difficulty Moderate)
North and east of Payson in the early 1880’s there was an attempt to bore a hole through the Mogollon Rim to facilitate a train route from Globe, AZ to Flagstaff, AZ.
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In August 1883 work began on drilling a 3,100 foot tunnel to ascend the Mogollon Rim. 42 men labored all summer. After running low on funds twice the railroad was abandoned. The project failed, but today the entrance to the railroad tunnel keeps the story alive.
To access the tunnel by the trail shown in the video head to the Washington Park Trailhead north of Payson, Arizona. At the Washington Park Trailhead you will see large signs with maps showing the way to the Railroad Tunnel Trail. You will be following the Colonel Devin Trail #290 to the Railroad Tunnel Trail #390. The Colonel Devin Trail is a rugged dirt road through a wooded canyon that follows along the waters of the East Verde River.
Once you reach the Railroad Tunnel Trail there will be a marked sign that and you will begin to ascend up to the tunnel itself. It is an easy hike until you get close to the tunnel where the trail gets somewhat steeper, but still manageable for a healthy hiker.
You will not see the tunnel until you are right on it. Then you will see the large tunnel and the old stone powder house which still remains near the mouth of the tunnel. The ledge near the tunnel provides tremendous views and plenty of shade making it a great spot to stop and relax before making the hike back.
The Railroad Tunnel Trail can also be accessed from both the top of the Mogollon Rim near General Springs Cabin by making a short .75 mile hike from the edge of the Rim to the tunnel below. The trail is part of the Colonel Devin trail #290 which is accessible from the 300 Road along the Rim. The upper trail is a steep descent with sand and loose rock that make it a tricky hike.