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Groom Creek Vista

Thumb Butte from Groom Creek Vista, brief side trip from main loop trail

December 17, 2023

Thumb Butte is one of best known Prescott area short hikes.  Distinct Rock Feature is readily seen from City Center and due to its proximity it's also very popular. Trailhead Parking is at signed Recreation Area along paved Thumb Butte Road ~15min from Prescott Downtown.  Area is managed by USDA Forest Service and Pass is required.   If visiting US natural areas longer than just few days America The Beautiful annual pass is way to go as it covers much more than just National Parks and $$ savings are substantial.   From signed junction just above parking lot loop can be done in either direction;   I recommend CCW because of open northerly views on return.   Wide dirt trail rises gently through semi open Ponderosa forest on the West side, then continues left towards Thumb Butte.  Brief side trip to Groom Creek vista with Rest Benches and Interpretive signs is a must (lead Photo).  Switchback descent back to Parking is very enjoyable.

Anyone interested in scrambling to top of Thumb Butte, here's what to expect.  Leave main trail near the Highpoint and head right (Waypoint "2 - Summit Junction",  GPS download Top of Page).  Bits of bushy trail develops and leads to summit block where scramble begins.  There are many options with various degree of difficulty - but none easy.  I angled climber left and after ascending awkward chimney circled on ledge to drop-off where exposed cleft (class 4) led to summit plateau, where I turned back - see Gallery.  Fairly good Internet resource with more details and photos is here.

Gallery