Originating from deep within the east flank of Big Bug Mesa, a perennial stream, Grapevine Creek, courses east under a surprising canopy of deciduous trees. It finally disappears beneath the deep silts and boulders of this wash just before reaching the trailhead, thus hiding its gentle beauty from those unwilling to explore beyond easy reach of a vehicle.

Click to enlarge map.

A cluster of springs seep from the north-facing slope to feed this lush riparian gallery forest. This canyon bottom, with its dependable water supply, supports an unusual, dense stand of deciduous trees. A small stand of aspen grows on the canyon floor and stands of white fir cover the north-facing canyon slope. Walnuts, oaks, boxelders, and an unusually dense stand of alders thrive in the cool microclimate. In the fall, their leaves smoothly carpet the canyon floor in pastel hues of yellow to ochre. In a visit here in November 2006, we noted signs of bears at work, evidenced by rolled rocks, ripped rotten pine stumps and deep soil rooting.

Because of the uniqueness of its plant associations and it's abundant springs, the Nature Conservancy nominated this 800-acre piece of Prescott National Forest for special protection and management. In 1997 the US Forest Service designated it the “Grapevine Botanical Area” and now excludes cattle and motor vehicles and limits access to hiking, biking and horseback.

To get there from downtown Prescott, drive 26.5 miles east on Highway 69 to just beyond milepost #274. It is the first turn to the right after Poland Road. At 0.4 miles from Hwy. 69, and after crossing Big Bug Creek, continue to bear left, staying on the main graded dirt road for about 1.5 miles. The next half mile is studded with rocks and suitable only for a high-clearance vehicle. At 2.3 miles you will come to a green Forest Service gate. If the gate is locked, park here. If open, you can drive another 0.4 miles to the trailhead.

Hiking time round-trip is about 3 hours, depending on how much you explore the area. The distance from trailhead to the springs is about 2.1 miles and fairly easy, though uphill. You are unlikely to encounter anyone.

The trail, Forest Trail #4, first passes the junction with Trail #9434, and at 1.2 miles, a rock cairn marks a second junction. The left fork trail drops to the creek. The right fork, and much better trail, contours parallel to and above the creek along a south-facing slope. It eventually returns to the creek.

Before reaching Grapevine Springs, you will encounter two fence gates enclosing a Forest Service study plot. The trail here was recently improved by Mike Keller as part of an Eagle Scout Project of Troop 147. Explore it as far as it goes. A trail built about 35 years ago continues to the rim of Big Bug Mesa, but I do not know its condition. 

(Ron Smith is the author of   “A Guide to Prescott & Central Highlands Trails,” available in most local book, bike, and outdoor stores.)