This new Arizona hike will be golden when the aspens turn. Here's how to try it

By: Mare Czinar

The Quaky Trail connects with other popular routes routes in Prescott National Forest just outside of downtown Prescott AZ.

It’s only a mile long, but the new Quaky Trail No. 741 in Prescott National Forest is a handy addition to the Bradshaw Ranger District routes in the Copper Basin Area. 

Opened last summer, the new single-track path is just a few miles from downtown Prescott and provides connectivity with several popular forest trails like Wolverton Mountain as well as the 51-mile Prescott Circle Trail. 

The fresh-cut Quaky Trail may be accessed from the Aspen Creek Trailhead or the nearby new Copper Basin Trailhead which has room for equestrian trailers. Reached either way, the trail is a beautiful work of construction.

How to hike the Quaky Trail in Prescott

From the Aspen Creek Trailhead, the hike begins with a 0.2-mile walk on Aspen Creek Trail No. 48. Then Trail No. 741 heads right, following the course of the creek. 

The entire route is shaded by ponderosa pines and creekside stands of boxelders, locust and oaks with an understory of brambles and wildflowers. 

The Quaky Trail in Prescott National Forest spins off Aspen Creek Trail No. 48.

The Quaky Trail just outside downtown Prescott traces Aspen Creek in Prescott National Forest.

The Quaky Trail near Prescott AZ is richly shaded by pines, aspens and other trees.

Ponderosa pines shade the Quaky Trail in Prescott National Forest near downtown Prescott.

Quaking aspens on the new Quaky Trail No. 741 in Prescott National Forest near downtown Prescott.

The edgy route twists through the forest dodging boulders and skimming ravines before encountering a gorgeous passage lined with aspen trees.  

The white-trunked quaking aspens (presumably the “quakies” of the Quaky Trail) huddle in tight formation, their canopies rustling in the mountain breezes. 

This is a good trail to keep in mind for October autumn foliage hikes. The trail ends at the Copper Basin Trailhead, where hikers may double back or consult forest maps to extend the trek.

New Prescott hike: Quaky Trail

Length: 2.4 miles out and back.

Rating: Moderate.

Elevation: 6,341-6,614 feet.

Getting there:

Aspen Creek trailhead: From Courthouse Square in Prescott, go 1 mile south on Montezuma Street (turns into State Route 89/White Spar Road) to the traffic light at Copper Basin Road. Turn right and continue 4.6 miles on Copper Basin Road (turns to good dirt after 1.6 miles) to the Aspen Creek trailhead on the right. The hike begins across the road on Trail 48. No facilities.

Copper Basin trailhead: Located 0.2 mile past the Aspen Creek Trailhead on Copper Basin Road. No facilities. Copper Basin Road is maintained dirt suitable for all vehicles up to the trailheads. 

Final Thoughts

If you’re moving to Arizona and craving outdoor adventure, the Quaky Trail in Prescott National Forest offers an unforgettable hike, especially during fall when the aspens turn golden. This short but scenic trail, shaded by towering ponderosa pines and winding through vibrant foliage, is perfect for nature lovers eager to explore Arizona’s diverse landscapes. Whether you're looking for a peaceful stroll or a challenging connection to other popular routes like Wolverton Mountain, Quaky Trail has something for everyone. For those settling into Arizona life, exploring trails like this will make your transition all the more special!