Dorsey Spring Trail – blue lotus adventures

DETAILS

Directions:

From Flagstaff, take W. Old Route 66 to Woody Mountain Road (FR 231). Turn left. Follow Woody Mountain Road approximately 14 miles to FR 538. Turn right on FR 538 and continue another 3.5 miles to FR 538G. Take the left fork to Dorsey Spring Trailhead.

Equipment:

Water
Map
GPS
Food/snack
Sturdy hiking shoes

Hike Info:

From the parking area the trail has a steep descent to the Spring. Trail is well maintained.

This trail does not offer any scenic views, but it is a pleasant hike to a spike and campsite. Often done as part of a loop hike with Kelsey Spring Trail, it’s a long day hike or a nice one-night backpacking trip. Park you vehicle (high clearance 4×4 required) at the intersection of U.S.Forest Service road 538G and 538E. You can also turn left off 538G onto 538E and drive to the trailhead but it could be a difficult drive.

The Dorsey Trail starts off wide and eventually narrows as it descends toward Sycamore Canyon. It does get steep toward the end. I passed a Forest Service trail crew of about 10 rangers working on the trail. I thanked every one of them and continued. At the end of the trail is a sign post marking the intersection with the Kelsey Spring Trail. Just before this on the left is Dorsey Spring.

There is a very nice camping area to the right a little way down the trail from the spring. Practice LNT principles and know the current conditions and campfire restrictions. When I was there is was a “red flag” day meaning fire danger was very high and all campfires were prohibited.