Camp Verde to Payson az

If you are planning to camp at the Houston Mesa CG, prepare to be underwhelmed. I would not go there again.

87 and 260 are both good roads. They are mostly 2 lane with a few passing lanes. 87 has some uphill grades climbing from Payson at 5000' to around 7000'. Very scenic through forested mountains. February can see significant snow fall on these highways resulting in them being snow packed. Generally roads are completely clear with 1 day of sun following a storm. I avoid these roads at night during winter as ice is unlikely to occur during the day unless storming.

Only one road to choose from. Good road, but goes up to 7100 foot elevation so watch the weather. There is a good climb that goes up 2900 feet in 11 miles with a portion nearing 7% grade. Big pine forest up at 7000 feet that is really pretty.

That route is good highway the whole way and scenic. Keep an eye on what the weather is doing looking out for snow.