Babe Haught Trail

Babe Haught Trail is a hike worth adding to your list if you like panoramic viewpoints and a bit of hard work. You’ll need to work hard to reach the edge of the mesa where the viewpoint is, but you’ll be glad you did, especially if you time your hike for the changing colors in the fall.

When you reach the top of the mesa, you can turn back where our route ends or continue further to Knoll Lake, a fantastic place to dip your feet or set up camp for the night. There’s a trail to the lake that’s easy to follow.

From the trailhead, take Babe Haught Trail #143 and immediately begin to switchback up the mesa. This trail doesn’t let up until you’re at the top, so keep grinding through the switchbacks as they intensify the higher you go. Poles and good boots will be helpful here. Cresting the top of the mesa, turn around to gaze over this wonderful portion of the Tonto National Forest before either continuing to the lake or beginning your descent.