Stewart Pocket pink granite beauty

In the Tonto National Forest near Payson, Arizona, lies a granite wonderland called Stewart Pocket. It is a great destination for hikers, climbers, mountain bikers and nature lovers. The area offers a plethora of granite boulders and rock formations, including Balanced Rock.

Overview

Some of the trails of the Payson Trail System will lead you through this very scenic spot loaded with pink granite. Boulders are piled here and there as you follow the metal trail mileage signs.

Stewart Pocket also contains large smooth spreads of granite bedrock that is fun to hike across. There are limited shady places, so it is best to hike here in the cooler months. The vegetation includes a mix of oak, manzanita, and pine. The landscape is dotted with massive boulders as well. These features provide excellent opportunities for bouldering and exploration.

Massive boulders of granite — Some of the massive granite boulders.

The Hike

The trails are not rated difficult, with total elevation gain under 1000 feet. But they can be tricky. There are several social trails that can be misleading. Maneuvering over wide areas of smooth bedrock can also create confusion with efforts to stay on trail. Having a GPS, app or other device to keep yourself on the trail is recommended. Watch for mountain bikers. The best time to hike is in the cooler months. The trail passes many giant, amazing rocks that provide great photo opportunities.

An interesting granite boulder formation resembling a prairie dog.

Trail Highlights:

Stunning pink granite boulders and smooth bedrock
Nice views of the Mogollon Rim in the distance
Opportunities for wildlife sightings including elk, deer and various bird species
Several balanced rocks and cool rock formations
Wildflowers and cactus blooms in the spring

Large granite boulders all over the landscape — Large granite boulders are all over the landscape. The Mogollon Rim is in the distance.

Towering boulders that look like sheer walls of rock.

A rounded tower of various sizes of granite boulders.

How to Get There

To reach Stewart Pocket, take Highway 87 ("the Beeline") to Payson. Turn east onto E Phoenix St and follow it to the Cypress Trailhead. Parking is available at the trailhead. From there you'll have a variety of trails to explore.

Trailhead coordinates:
34.22527, -111.29260

Balanced rock coordinates:
34.21472, -111.27427

Tips for Visiting

Use caution on the slick bedrock
Carry extra water
Wear sturdy footwear suitable for rocky and uneven terrain
Download offline maps and/or bring navigation tools (map, compass, GPS)
Let someone know your plans before heading out
Always practice Leave No Trace principles

Why We Love It

Stewart Pocket is a colorful, scenic place that is fun to hike and photograph. The granite boulders throughout the area are a wonder to hike between and around. The fresh air with a scent of pine is wonderful. As a bonus it is not a crowded place!

🔗 Share this article: