Trails
We are working to improve our public trails database. In the meantime, please consult the follow tables for the most up-to-date information on your favorite trails.
Flagstaff Ranger District
The AZT is part of the Campbell Mesa Trail System.
The various loops offer a wide variety of seasonal wildflowers, many examples of local birdlife, and frequent wildlife sightings. Visitors enjoy forested glades, broad interior meadows, and scenic views of Mt. Elden, Anderson Mesa and Mormon Mountain.
The system includes five loops. The longest, 5.7-mile Campbell Mesa Loop swings around the northern and eastern perimeter of the mesa, while Anasazi Loop shortcuts the west end of Campbell Mesa Loop to make a 2.7-mile sub-loop. Continental Loop makes a short 1.8-mile tour to the northwest side of the mesa overlooking Walnut Canyon Lakes, Continental ball fields, and the course of the Rio de Flag. Sinagua Loop takes the shortest jaunt, just over a mile from the trailhead and back. Walnut Meadows Loop swings 4 miles around the southwest end of the mesa, affording panoramas of Anderson Mesa on the far side of Walnut Canyon and distant Mormon Mountain. From Walnut Meadows Loop, a half-mile connector crosses Old Walnut Canyon Road to the Arizona Trail and Fisher Point.
All five loops of Campbell Mesa trail interconnect with each other and the Campbell Mesa trailhead. Campbell Mesa lies within a non-motorized use area that provides solitude for visitors and shelter for wildlife. Walkers, hikers, cyclists, skiers, and snowshoers enjoy the trails in all seasons.
| Trail | Status | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| AZT | Open | Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 19.19 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6780 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 483 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
| AZT Connector | Open | Difficulty: Moderate Length: 0.5 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6780 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 106 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
| Anasazi Loop | Open | Difficulty: Easy Length: 1.2 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6780 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 132 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
| Campbell Mesa Loop | Open | Difficulty: Moderate Length: 5.7 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6780 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 488 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
| Continental Loop | Open | Difficulty: Easy Length: 1.58 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6780 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 147 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
| Sinagua Loop | Open | Difficulty: Easy Length: 0.5 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6780 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 46 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
| Walnut Meadows Loop | Open | Difficulty: Moderate Length: 3 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6780 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 280 feet Uses: Day Hiking | , |
Located at the base of the San Francisco Peaks, the Fort Valley Trail System was designed primarily for connecting popular mountain biking trails. This system is a multi-use trail to be used by bicycles, hikers, horses and motorcycles. Several sections of the trail were designed by a local biking organization to provide a more challenging ride for the more experienced mountain bike rider. The trail consists of loops that link with the Schultz Creek, Dry Lake Hill and Mt. Elden trail system.
Fort Valley trail is in the Chimney Springs area, just north of Flagstaff. The area has a gradual sloping terrain that consists of several shallow canyons and sweeping views of the San Francisco Peaks. Ponderosa pine and Gambel oak trees are the primary type of vegetation with New Mexico locust and an occasional hedgehog cactus.
| Trail | Status | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| AZT Fort Valley | Open | Length: 7.47 miles Trailhead Elevation: 7230 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 327 feet Use: All non-motorized Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Chimney | Open | Difficulty: Easy Length: 1.87 miles Trailhead Elevation: 7230 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 115 feet Uses: All non-motorized from Schultz Trailhead to Schultz Pass road. Open to hike/bike/moto/horse back from Schultz Pass road to Flue trail intersection | , |
| Damper | Open | Difficulty: Easy Length: 0.33 miles Trailhead Elevation: 7230 feet< Elevation Gain/Loss: 66 feet Use: Bike, hike, moto, horse back Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Flue | Open | Difficulty: Easy Length: 1 miles Trailhead Elevation: 7230 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 159 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| GT | Open | Difficulty: Moderate Length: 1.31 miles Trailhead Elevation: 7230 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 360 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Moto | Open | Difficulty: Moderate Length: 4.81 miles Trailhead Elevation: 7230 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 1332 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Newham | Open | Difficulty: Easy Length: 0.28 miles Trailhead Elevation: 7230 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 86 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Poker | Open | Difficulty: Easy Length: 0.33 miles Trailhead Elevation: 7230 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 172 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Rocky Moto Moto Loop | Open | The Rocky Moto Moto Loop is one of several single track trails in the Fort Valley area that are motorbike-friendly. This loop begins at the Fort Valley Trailhead just off Highway 180 (about 4.5 miles north of the Route 66/Hwy 180 intersection) and the trail is just over 10 miles in length, with about 7 miles of it being single track. The route takes you through the ponderosa pine forest and isn't too technical, but is still challenging to any rider and incredibly fun. In the summertime or after monsoon season, you may find yourself getting a little muddy as the trail does go through some stream areas. You can spend all day in the Fort Valley area and hook up on other single tracks that eventually lead to Schultz Pass Road--another great ride for an adventure. Also, watch out for others in the Fort Valley network of trails, as they are also frequented by hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians. Difficulty: Moderate Length: 3.67 miles Trailhead Elevation: 7230 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 379 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Secret | Open | Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 5.9 miles Trailhead Elevation: 7230 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 1051 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
For current weather, visit National Weather Service. When there is snow on the San Francisco Peaks check the Kachina Peaks Avalanche Center Snowpack Summary for avalanche danger information.
| Trail | Status | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abineau-Bear Jaw Loop | Open | During the Winter, roads leading into the area are closed to vehicles. Abineau-Bear Jaw Loop is part of the Kachina Trail System. From the Abineau (#127) and Bear Jaw (#26) trails, on the north slope of the San Francisco Peaks, you can see the Grand Canyon seventy miles away. These two trails make a scenic loop through forested canyons. Both end at the Waterline Road (FR 146) along the base of a long talus slope topped by Humphreys Peak, Arizona's highest point. The climb along either two-mile trail is steep and steady through stands of mixed conifer and aspen. The road completes the loop by connecting the top of one trail to the other, ascending 600' over two miles from the top of Bear Jaw Trail to the top of Abineau Trail. From this high perspective the Grand Canyon cuts a wide gap in a the plateau stretching from the mountain to the horizon. With the almost half-mile connector trail from the trailhead to the loop (where Bear Jaw and Abineau split to follow different routes up the mountain), the entire hike is approximately 7 miles long. This route passes through an area colorful at all seasons of the year. In late spring, alpine wildflowers such as lupine, rocky mountain iris, penstemon and paintbrush splash the trailside meadows. Sunflowers add yellow in summer, and groves of aspen paint the slopes with crimson and gold during the fall. You may spot a black bear here—perhaps the best chance you'll have around the Peaks. These big shy animals occasionally show themselves along these trails. Mule deer and elk are also plentiful. Common birds include juncos, Steller's jays and Clark's nutcrackers. In spring and early summer the melodious hermit thrush will serenade you. Early in 2005, a huge avalanche did extensive damage to the trail in Abineau Canyon. Although the trail reopened by that summer, evidence of the avalanche still remains in toppled trees and gouged rock. Bear Jaw Trail Statistics
Abineau Trail Statistics:
Abineau/Bear Jaw Loop Trail Statistics:
Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 35.3925, -111.6702 |
| Humphreys Trail No. 151 | Open | Avalanche Danger: Following winter storms, there may be increased danger of avalanches on steep slopes, and high elevations near and above the tree line. Check the Kachina Peaks Avalanche Center Snowpack Report and San Francisco Peaks Recreational Weather Forecast before hiking this trail or entering the backcountry. Humphreys Trail is part of the Kachina Trail System. This steep mountain trail leads to the highest point in Arizona. If you consider it merely as a means to that end, however, you'll miss much of the reason to come here. The trails runs approximately 5 to 5.5 miles in length one way, so make sure you start early in the day if you are planning a roundtrip day hike. Along its course, a thriving alpine forest streaked with huge rock slides and avalanche tracks hugs the mountain's slopes. Scenic Hart Prairie stretches out the base of the incline and the Grand Canyon is easily visible on the horizon. As the elevation increases, trailside vegetation shows more evidence of the extreme harshness of this environment. Near tree line what's left of the forest consists entirely of bristlecone pines bent and twisted by wind and frost. This hardy tree manages to live one of the longest lives on earth in one of the planet's most inhospitable environments. Above tree line the only plants that can survive are small tundra shrubs and wildflowers that huddle for shelter among the rocks. Some are found nowhere else in the world. Overhead, above Arizona's highest ridge, white-throated swifts dive and flash like miniature fighter planes as they feed on nearly invisible insects borne on the wind. Humphreys Trail is steep and long and extremely rocky in its higher reaches. Above treeline it exposes you completely to the whims of nature. Here it may snow during any month of the year. In late summer monsoon storms can set the high country snapping with lightning. Be prepared to turn around and head for lower ground if a thunderstorm is brewing! From the Top: Once you do reach the summit ridge you'll feel like you're standing on top of the world. Off in the distance, the Grand Canyon, the Painted Desert, the mesas that are home to the Hopi Indians the Verde Valley and Oak Creek Canyon form a 360 degree panorama. And after you've seen it you'll be able to say you've been as high as you can get in Arizona. Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 4.8 miles Trailhead Elevation: 9340 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 3420 feet Uses: Day Hiking | 35.331207, -111.711727 |
| Inner Basin Trail No. 29 | Open | The San Francisco Peaks are actually the remains of an extinct volcano. Millions of years ago this great mountain was shattered by an explosion similar to the one that devastated Washington's Mt. Saint Helens in 1980. Inside the now quiet caldera a lush alpine environment has blurred evidence of that cataclysmic event. The trail leading into the heart of the ancient volcano begins in beautiful Lockett Meadow. From this island of emerald, ringed with aspens and high peaks, the trail winds through a shady forest to join the Waterline Trail briefly before following a service road into the mountain's now quiet Inner Basin, connecting to the Weatherford Trail on the far side of the basin. Here, extensive stands of aspens cover the steep slopes of the old caldera, coloring them solid gold in early fall. In spring and summer, wildflowers add a sprinkling of blue, red and yellow. From the basin's rims, avalanche tracks streak down the talus slopes, and remnants of old lava flows bear witness to the mountain's cataclysmic heritage. Snow may remain here even into summer. Cross-country skiers continue to ski as late as June in some years. Hiking is the most popular way of visiting this beautiful and unique environment. Hikers begin coming to the basin before the snows have completely melted from the trail. Animals you may spot in this high country include porcupine and elk. Black bears have been known to stroll right through groups of picnickers without so much as a glance at their lunches. The hermit thrush sings his best here. The climb to this high mountain place, where spring comes late and fall arrives early, is moderate but steady, but the reward is worth every bit of the effort. Lockett Meadow Campground is at the Inner Basin Trailhead. Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 3.9 miles Trailhead Elevation: 8650 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 2336 feet Uses: Day Hiking | 35.356876, -111.622896 |
| Kachina Trail No. 150 | Open | Kachina Trail is one of Flagstaff's most popular. Especially in fall, hikers gravitate to the colors as bright gold lights the way through surrounding aspen groves. Skirting the south face of the San Francisco Peaks, the trail runs almost entirely within Kachina Peaks Wilderness. From end to end, the trail covers five miles (8 km) and descends 700 feet (200 m) from its upper end here at 9,500 feet (2,900 m) to its terminus in the mouth of Weatherford Canyon at 8,800 feet (2,700 m). The rolling course takes you through high forest and broad, sloping meadows affording panoramic views over Flagstaff. The trail crosses several canyons and even descends a high lava cliff. A dramatic, cave-like recess in the lava marks where a bed of looser volcanic debris eroded away from denser flow layers above. Although you can enjoy short forays onto the trail from here, many hikers leave a car at the end of Friedlein Prairie Road (FR 522) so they can begin here and do the entire trail one way. Slanting across Agassiz Peak, Kachina Trail shows nature at its finest. Ancient limber pine and massive Douglas-fir dominate the higher elevations. Waist-high meadows of bracken fern punctuate the slopes. As it descends toward Weatherford Canyon, the trail dips into scattered ponderosa groves. You may encounter anything from black bears to bow hunters along Kachina Trail. Many hikers hear the squealing bugle of bull elk during fall mating season. You won't see them, but cougars range the steep slopes at twilight for their favored elk and mule deer. And don't be surprised to see a black bear or two ambling through the thickets after berries. If you're very still, you might even capture one's photo before it scampers off at the sight of you. While hunting is allowed in the wilderness, mechanized use is not. Hunters must pack out their bounty. You can't miss the massive lava flow the trail crosses toward its upper end. Trees push their way through huge andesite boulders that came to rest 600,000 years ago. You can easily visualize them tumbling down a smoking moonscape of glowing lava. Views of Agassiz Peak high above—sometimes still wreathed in snow—constantly remind you of the fiery origin of San Francisco Mountain. Difficulty: Moderate Length: 5.2 miles Trailhead Elevation: 9340 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 1188 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 35.326639, -111.71117 |
| Weatherford Trail No. 102 | Open | Weatherford Trail is part of the Kachina Trail System and the Schultz Tank Trail System. The remains of an old road that once took Model T Fords to the top of the San Francisco Peaks provides the route for this winding mountain trail. The road has since been closed to vehicle traffic to protect the area's alpine environment, and the upper reaches of the mountain have been set aside as the Kachina Peaks Wilderness Area so forest visitors can enjoy its panoramic views in the relative seclusion and natural surroundings such an area provides. Along the steady but gradual climb, views stretch to Oak Creek Canyon and the Verde Valley over fifty miles away. Trailside vegetation changes as elevation increases, from ponderosa pine to more alpine species such as limber pine, corkbark fir, and bristlecone pine. At about 9,000 feet a very noisy black, gray, and white bird makes its first appearance. This is the Clarks nutcracker, a type of jay, which is more commonly thought of as a resident of the Rocky Mountains but finds this part of Arizona very much to its liking. Black bear are sighted periodically as are wild turkey and blue grouse. The Weatherford Trail is an excellent place to hear the bugling of bull elk in the Fall, as they gather their harems for the breeding season. It's also one of the best places on the forest to enjoy the autumn change of leaves among the huge aspen groves in the mountain's inner basin. Come early, though, the leaves change here well ahead of anyplace else on the forest. The Weatherford Trail ends at its intersection with the Humphreys Trail, which then continues on to the top of Mt. Humphreys the highest point in Arizona at 12,643 feet. Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 10.44 miles Trailhead Elevation: 8046 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 3740 feet Use: Hiking, horseback Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 35.2865, -111.6275 |
The Kelly Motorized Trail System is south of Flagstaff, Arizona, south of Lake Mary Road (opposite the Skunk Canyon, Fay Canyon, Sandy's Canyon area). Vehicles must stay on designated roads and trails.
| Trail | Status | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airport Connector | Open | Difficulty: Easy Length: 0.67 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6960 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 85 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Airport Loop | Open | Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 15 miles Trail Head Elevation: 6960 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 1953 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Howard | Open | Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 9.57 miles Trail Head Elevation: 6970 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 1299 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Howard Spur | Open | Difficulty: Moderate Length: 3.37 miles Trail Head Elevation: 6970 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 466 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Interstate | Open | Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 10.6 miles Trail Head Elevation: 6970 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 1200 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Jump | Open | Difficulty: Moderate Length: 1.38 miles Trail Head Elevation: 6970 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 293 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Mary's Dinner | Open | Difficulty: Moderate Length: 2 miles Trail Head Elevation: 6960 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 245 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Rock Rut | Open | Difficulty: Moderate Length: 0.7 miles Trail Head Elevation: 6970 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 197 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Seminary | Open | Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 10.4 miles Trail Head Elevation: 6960 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 1134 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Ward | Open | Difficulty: Moderate Length: 3.32 miles Trail Head Elevation: 6970 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 541 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Willard | Open | Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 4.8 miles Trail Head Elevation: 6970 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 740 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Trail | Status | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Priest Draw Trail and Bouldering Area | Open | During the winter, roads leading into the area are closed to vehicles. <a href=” https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/coconino/alerts-notices/?cid=stelprdb533…”>Road closures.</a> <a href="/Internet/FSE_MEDIA/fseprd516541.jpg" target="_blank"> </a> Priest Draw is a picturesque canyon with low limestone walls and cliffs topped with ponderosa pine forest. The flat, easy trail travels along one side of the broad, sunny meadows along the canyon floor for approximately 1.5 mile to a second trailhead off FR 235 at the western end of Priest Draw. The gentle trail and easy access to explore the rock formations makes this an excellent hike or bike ride for the entire family. The area is a popular bouldering destination, offering several areas of walls and overhangs to challenge climbers. Keep pets, children, and yourself a safe distance from climbers. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, Climbing, Rock Climbing | 35.081555, -111.600926 |
| Sandys Canyon Trail No. 137 | Open | Here's a trail just a few minutes outside Flagstaff that offers good photo opportunities, interesting geology, great views, and access to a longer trail that stretches all the way across Arizona. Sandys Canyon Trail starts out by skirting the rim of Walnut Canyon, a scenic rift in the same layers of rock that form the upper cliffs of the Grand Canyon. From the trailhead, you get a great view of the San Francisco Peaks with the cliffs of Walnut Canyon in the foreground - time to reach for the camera. <a href="/Internet/FSE_MEDIA/stelprdb5376292.jpg" target="_new"> </a> The trail heads north from the trailhead following the Walnut Canyon Rim for a short distance before it drops down Sandys Canyon into the main gorge. Sandys Canyon Trail then continues along the Walnut Canyon floor on an old jeep track to an intersection with the Arizona Trail. Here you'll find more Grand Canyon style cliffs complete with the same bright colors of that World Heritage Site. The pronounced cross-bedding and deep red hue of these petrified Permian Age sand dunes will have you reaching for your camera again. This trail is best suited for hiking or horsebacking. If you don't have your own steed, a nearby concessionaire provides guided rides into these scenic canyonlands. If you'd like to turn your Sandys Canyon venture into a longer hike you can follow the Arizona Trail either north, down canyon to Fisher Point or east along Walnut toward Marshall Lake. (See the <a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recreation/hiking/recarea/?reci…" target="_new">Arizona Trail Marshall Lake to Fisher Point</a> section of this guide.) Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 35.128486, -111.602576 |
| Wood Memorial Trail | Open | During the winter, roads leading into the area are closed to vehicles. <a href=” https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/coconino/alerts-notices/?cid=stelprdb533…”>Road closures.</a> Wood Memorial Trail (universal access) links <a href="/recarea/coconino/recreation/camping-cabins/recarea/?recid=55004&actid=29"> Lakeview Campground </a> with <a href="/recarea/coconino/recreation/picnickinginfo/recarea/?recid=55020&actid=70"> Lake Mary Narrows Picnic Area </a>. This trail leads to the water and through a tunnel under Forest Highway 3 (Lake Mary Road) so people don't have to cross the busy highway. Photo [<a href="/Internet/FSE_MEDIA/stelprdb5379940.jpg" target="_new">full-size view</a>] was taken at Lake Mary Narrows. Lakeview Campground is located near Upper Lake Mary with easy foot access to the water, via the Wood Memorial Trail (0.5 miles) or by car. Many other lakes such as <a href="/recarea/coconino/recreation/wateractivities/recarea/?recid=54946&actid=79"> Ashurst </a>, <a href="/recarea/coconino/recreation/wateractivities/recarea/?recid=54946&actid=79"> Kinnikinick </a>, <a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recreation/wateractivities/reca…"> Marshall </a>, and <a href="/recarea/coconino/recreation/wateractivities/recarea/?recid=75327&actid=79"> Lower Lake Mary </a> are within easy driving distance as are many hiking trails, including the <a href="/recarea/coconino/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=55060&actid=50"> Arizona Trail </a>. The lakes are stocked with a variety of fish including trout, bass and channel catfish. <a href="/recarea/coconino/recreation/wateractivities/recarea/?recid=55044&actid=79"> Upper Lake Mary </a> is also popular with power boaters and there is currently no motor size limit (most other lakes in the area have an 10 hp motor size limit). Uses: Day Hiking | 35.066553, -111.493585 |
The Mount Elden/Dry Lake Hills (MEDL) trail system was dedicated in 1987. There are eight trailheads providing access to 25 designated National Forest System trails, including a segment of the Arizona National Scenic Trail, Flagstaff Loop Trail, and the historic Beale Wagon trail. The MEDL area is comprised by rugged volcanic mountains that are part of the San Francisco volcanic field, located just north of Flagstaff. This non-motorized system provides fantastic views of the San Francisco Peaks with Humphreys Peak being the tallest in Arizona at 12,633 feet, the city of Flagstaff, and the surrounding landscapes including the Painted Desert. With numerous trails that circumnavigate, climb, and descend the steep flanks of Elden Mountain and Dry Lake Hills, the MEDL system has a vast number of experiences to offer. The MEDL trails can be accessed at various trailheads; the most popular including the Schultz Creek Trailhead, Sunset Trailhead, Schultz Tank Trailhead, Oldham Trailhead, and Elden Lookout Trailhead.
A variety of wildlife species ranging from elk and mule deer to blue grouse and goshawks are frequently observed in the area. A good way to get an idea of which species of wild animals live in the area is to watch the trail for their tracks or scat, although you may have a hard time sorting out coyote tracks from those of the family pets which regularly accompany their humans in this area.
The lower elevations of the area encompass a mixed pinyon-juniper woodland and ponderosa pine forest and with increasing elevation the forest changes to mixed conifer forest composed of fir and spruce. You may be surprised to encounter a couple of different kinds of cacti in this high, cold environment where they seem to do very well. The summit of Mount Elden is rather barren following the 1977 Radio Fire which scorched much of the vegetation but has slowly been recovering.
| Trail | Status | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abalone | Open | Difficulty: Easy Length: 0.35 miles Trailhead Elevation: 8108 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 29 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
| Afterglow | Open | Difficulty: Moderate Length: 0.36 miles Trailhead Elevation: 7201 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 72 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
| Apollo | Open | Difficulty: Easy Length: 0.3 miles Trailhead Elevation: 7201 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 31 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
| Big Bang | Open | Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 4.4 miles Trailhead Elevation: 7201 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 1286 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
| Broadside | Open | Difficulty: Easy Length: 3.24 miles Trailhead Elevation: 8108 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 692 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
| Christmas Tree | Open | Difficulty: Easy Length: 2 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6884 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 329 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
| Dipper | Open | Difficulty: Moderate Length: 1.4 miles Trailhead Elevation: 7201 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 447 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
| Down Under | Open | Difficulty: Moderate Length: 1.4 miles Trailhead Elevation: 8108 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 476 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
| Elden Lookout Trail No. 4 | Open | Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 2.67 miles Trailhead Elevation: 8108 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 2392 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | 35.230295, -111.579234 |
| Fatmans Loop Trail No. 25 | Open | Dogs must be on a leash at all times. Owners must pick up after their pets. DO NOT leave bags of poop from your pets along the trail/trailhead. If your pet defecates, you must bag the poop and take it with you. Do not leaving it to pick up later. If you do not want to do this, do not bring your pet on these trails. For the most part, the Fatmans Loop is an easy walk, although it does have a few short steep sections. Scenic overlooks of Flagstaff, the city's eastern suburbs and the surrounding countryside make this a good place for a stroll when you have time to stop and enjoy the view. Along the route there are a number of interesting rock formations that bear witness to Mt. Elden's volcanic origins. One of these is a bit of a tight squeeze, hence the trail's name. The area through which this trail leads supports a diverse community of plant species including upland trees such as white fir and ponderosa pine. Shrubs and smaller trees more usually associated with lower altitudes are also present. Among these are cliff rose, alligator juniper and broadleaf yucca. Wildlife you may encounter on this trail includes Abert's squirrels, pygmy nuthatches, mule deer and grey foxes along with more commonly encountered animals such as Steller's jays and ravens. This trail provides access to the Elden Lookout Trail which continues two miles and 2,000 feet to the summit of Mt. Elden. Difficulty: Moderate Length: 2 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6884 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 518 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 35.230296, -111.579235 |
| Full Sail | Open | Difficulty: Moderate Length: 2.58 miles Trailhead Elevation: 8108 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 881 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
| Heart Trail No. 103 | Open | The Heart trail begins in the Sandy Seep area just north of Flagstaff at approximately 7200 feet, and climbs the east slope of Mt. Elden to connect with the Sunset Trail in Sunset Park. As the trail climbs, it winds through the remnants of a large mixed conifer forest which was destroyed by the Radio fire in 1977. The area is well into regeneration, with gamble oak and various grasses and shrubs growing strong. The Heart Trail can be accessed from a number of trails: Little Elden Trail, Sandy Seep Trail, and Sunset Trail. Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 4 miles Trailhead Elevation: 8108 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 1558 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 35.249987, -111.56192 |
| Little Bear Trail No. 112 | Open | This trail climbs the Dry Lake Hills from Little Elden Trail to meet Sunset Trail in quiet nook between the Dry Lake Hills and Mount Elden. Much of the trail was constructed - and reconstructed three times since the 2010 Schultz Fire - by devoted trail volunteers including mountain bikers, hikers, equestrians and several other organizations. The trail climbs through the skeletons left behind by the Schultz Fire and patches of surviving ponderosa pine and Gambel oak. It gradually winds through Douglas-fir, limber pine, and pockets of aspen trees at the top. The trail offers outstanding views of the San Francisco Peaks, Sunset Crater, several prominent volcanic peaks, and in the distant background the painted desert acts as a colorful backdrop. Many wildlife species make their home in this area including mule deer, elk, porcupine and black bear for which the trail is distinctly named after. In addition, red-tailed hawks, raven and the occasional turkey vulture will dazzle you with their aerial acrobats. Please remember to minimize your impacts on wildlife by viewing from a distance, keeping your dog on a leash, and limiting noise levels to a minimum. The trail, devastated by the Schultz Fire and extreme monsoon weather in subsequent years, was rebuilt with the assistance of local recreation organizations, volunteer groups, and devoted members of the community. Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 3.55 miles Trailhead Elevation: 8108 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 879 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 35.2813, -111.5903 |
| Little Elden Trail No. 69 | Open | During the winter, roads leading into the area are closed to vehicles. Little Elden Trail is part of the Mount Elden Dry Lake Hills Trail System and the Schultz Tank Trail System. The Little Elden Trail leads the user into the heart of the Peaks trail system, at Schultz Tank. From this point you can connect to the Dry Lake Hills/Mount Elden trails to the south, or the Kachina Peaks Wilderness trail system to the north. The Little Elden Trail winds along the north side of Little Elden Mountain through stands of gamble oak and Ponderosa pine. Difficulty: Moderate Length: 5.33 miles Trailhead Elevation: 8108 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 1069 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 35.279995, -111.586419 |
| Lunar Tide | Open | Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 1.21 miles Trailhead Elevation: 8108 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 372 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
| Oldham Trail No. 1 | Open | Oldham Trail begins in Buffalo Park, Flagstaff's urban forest park, and climbs gradually up the south slope of Mt. Elden, an extinct volcano. The trail gets its name from Oldham Park, an open area near Elden's summit. From that high perspective you'll get a bird's eye view of Flagstaff and the surrounding area including mountains, deserts, and canyons as much as a hundred miles away. Some prominent features that are easily visible are Oak Creek Canyon, Sunset Crater, and the Painted Desert. Along the lower reaches of the trail, you'll encounter boulder fields and cliffs where there are hidden crevices to explore and rocky nooks that make great places to picnic. As you climb higher, the trail takes you from a ponderosa pine forest into groves of aspen and mixed conifer stands of spruce, fir and pine. In Oldham Park you'll see evidence of a catastrophic burn that occurred in 1977. Although the area affected by this huge wildfire still looks barren from Flagstaff, up close you can see how nature is healing from this man-made disaster. Near Elden Summit, Oldham Trail joins the Sunset Trail which leads north across the top of Elden to Schultz Pass and south to the Elden Lookout Trail and east Flagstaff. Difficulty: Moderate Length: 1.5 miles Trailhead Elevation: 7201 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 727 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 35.217953, -111.632573 |
| Pipeline Trail No. 42 | Open | Pipeline Trail begins just north of Buffalo Park, Flagstaff's urban forest preserve, and follows a gas pipeline right-of-way along the base of Mt. Elden. This broad, open trail offers an easy hike across fairly open terrain with opportunities to get a close look at the lower limits of some of the old Mt. Elden lava flows. It also offers easy access to some of the many small rocky canyons that carve Mt. Elden's lower slopes. Ponderosa pines are the predominant vegetation along the trail, mixed with Gambel oaks that color the slopes a burnt gold in the fall and cliffrose that contribute a pleasant fragrance in the spring. Much of the Pipeline Trail passes through the Mt. Elden Environmental Study Area (ESA). This is an area set aside by the Forest Service in the mid-nineteen seventies as an outdoor study resource for schools and environmental groups. Gray foxes and coyotes can be seen along the trail as well as an occasional raccoon. Common birds encountered here are Steller's jays, juncos and a variety of hawks that hunt the rocky slopes. Open areas annually tinted bright yellow with a midsummer wash of sunflowers serve as a colorful stage for that countryside Caruso, the Meadow lark. Pipeline Trail provides a connecting route between the Oldham Trail and Elden Lookout Trail/Fatman's Loop Trail. It also serves as a cross-country mountain biking route between east and west Flagstaff. Difficulty: Easy Length: 2.8 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6884 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 461 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 35.230066, -111.579058 |
| Pluto | Open | Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 0.26 miles Trailhead Elevation: 7201 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 118 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
| Rocky Ridge Trail No. 153 | Open | This rocky path over rolling terrain leads through a forest of ponderosa pines interspersed with stunted Gambel oaks and gnarled alligator junipers. Also found on this arid south slope of the Dry Lake Hills are a number of hardy shrubs and ground hugging desert plants. Among these are cliffrose, broadleaf yucca and prickly pear cactus. Combined they add a bit of desert ambiance to the surroundings. In season, colorful wildflowers add a splash of brightness to the rocky slopes. From mid-spring to late summer along the trailside you'll see a number of varieties of paintbrush, a creamy yellow flower called butter and eggs and lots of bright red penstemon. Though this trail is quite close to town, evidence of wildlife is none the less common. The tracks of coyote and elk are frequently mixed in with the tracks of joggers, hikers and mountain bikers. In mid-summer the sweet notes of the area's resident songbird, the hermit thrush echo through the forest. As the trail roller coasters over the shallow dry washes that crease the lower slopes of the Dry Lake Hills it offers good views of Flagstaff and its western suburbs. The upper reaches of Oak Creek and Sycamore Canyons are visible in the background. So is Mormon Mountain. Rocky Ridge Trail provides a convenient connecting route between Schultz Creek Trail, Oldham Trail, and Brookbank Trail. Difficulty: Moderate Length: 2 miles Trailhead Elevation: 7201 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 476 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 35.246803, -111.664016 |
| Sandy Seep Trail No. 129 | Open | The Sandy Seep area on the eastern slopes of Mount Elden is an important winter range for mule deer as well as a valuable recreation resource for the Flagstaff area. The trail that provides access to it follows an old jeep track that meanders through the open grasslands dotted with ponderosa pines, Gambel oaks and clumps of cliff rose. To ensure that the area's recreational use does not impair its value as wildlife habitat, the Forest has closed the area to entry by motor vehicles. If you come under your own power or aboard a friendly saddle horse, however, you're welcome to enjoy the excellent views the area provides of Mount Elden and the Sunset Volcano Field. And you'll stand a good chance of seeing some of the area's resident mule deer as they fade into the background. As you hike you'll notice that Mt. Elden is covered with dead trees killed by a disastrous fire in 1977. Climbing higher you'll see evidence of the fire closer at hand including numbers of burned out snags as well as the remains of old fire breaks plowed into the landscape. Near the end of the trail you'll be hiking on land that was actually burned over by the fire. Here you can get a close look at how the area is naturally regenerating. Pioneer sprouts of oak at lower elevations and aspen higher up carpet the slopes. These lush green saplings provide nourishing browse for the area's deer herd and are creating a display of fall colors that becomes more magnificent every year. Difficulty: Easy Length: 1.5 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6884 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 310 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 35.249442, -111.561329 |
| Schultz Creek Trail No. 152 | Open | Some portions of this trail are closed due to the Pipeline Fire Closure Order. Schultz Creek Trail is part of the Mount Elden Dry Lake Hills Trail System, Schultz Tank Trail System, and the Schultz Creek Loops Trail System. Schultz Creek Trail parallels one of several intermittent drainages that carry water from the higher reaches of the San Francisco Peaks. Generally the stream only has water in it a few months of every year, either during the spring snow melt or after a summer monsoon. However, even when there is no water here, which is most of the time, walking beside the water-smoothed stones and ledges worn by ephemeral waterfalls can still give one the pleasant feeling of being near a brook even if you have to imagine the babble This trail has one of the most moderate gradients on any in the San Francisco Peaks/Mt. Elden area. Still, it has enough ups and downs to be extremely popular with mountain bikers. So, if you come for a hike or a horseback ride, keep your ears and eyes open and be ready to share the trail with other users. If you hike this trail during a quiet time, Abert's squirrels and Steller's jays are animals you might see here. During late spring and early summer this is a good place to hear the musical trill of the hermit thrush. Schultz Creek Trail serves as a connecting trail between Rocky Ridge Trail and the Sunset Trail. Difficulty: Moderate Length: 4.27 miles Trailhead Elevation: 8108 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 916 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 35.244606, -111.661781 |
| Spacewalk | Open | Spacewalk Trail is part of the Mount Elden Dry Lake Hills Trail System and the Schultz Creek Loops Trail System. Difficulty: Easy Length: 0.88 miles Trailhead Elevation: 7201 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 118 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
| Sunset Trail No. 23 | Open | During the winter, roads leading into the area are closed to vehicles. Sunset Trail is part of the Mount Elden Dry Lake Hills Trail System and the Schultz Tank Trail System. Views of the San Francisco Peaks, the volcanic fields east of Flagstaff, Sunset Crater and even the Painted Desert are yours to enjoy along this high country trail. The route starts near Schultz Tank, a rare body of water here in these mountains Spanish explorers called sin agua (without water). It climbs gradually to a high ridge where you'll find good views of Arizona's tallest mountain before continuing on to the east edge of Mount Elden's summit plateau. From this high perspective you can look down on Sunset Crater and the Bonito Lava Flow that borders it. As you hike, take time out to check for black bear tracks. A few of these shy animals live in this area, but usually all you see of them are their tracks. You have a much better chance of seeing elk and mule deer which are more plentiful and much less shy. Along its highest reaches, the Sunset Trail traverses an area devastated by a fierce wildfire in 1977. At one point there was concern that the city of Flagstaff might even be consumed by this campfire gone wild. Here, among the burned out hulks of a once thriving forest you can see how nature recovers from such an all-consuming disaster. Pioneer plants such as aspen and Gambel oaks are already well established in the burned-over area. Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 5 miles Trailhead Elevation: 8108 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 1587 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 35.2853, -111.6335 |
| Swell | Open | Difficulty: Easy Length: 1.45 miles Trailhead Elevation: 8108 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 412 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
| Upper Oldham | Open | Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 1.6 miles Trailhead Elevation: 8108 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 1016 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
The motorized trail system in the Munds Park area traverse a landscape dominated by mixed conifer forest, lichen covered volcanic rocks, and high desert cactus. Intermittent viewpoints offer vistas of the nearby San Francisco Mountains to the north. The trails were purpose-built to incorporate natural features to enhance experiences for motorized users. Trails open to Off Highway Vehicles (OHV) have numerous squeeze points to ensure resource protection from common highway vehicles.
OHVs have access to numerous loop options utilizing trails and forest roads optimized for side-by-sides. Users operating dirt bikes have access to all side-by-side trails in addition to motorized single-track trails.
| Trail | Status | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brads Trail | Open | Brads Trail is a non-motorized trail that connects the Iron Springs Trailhead to Janice Place Trailhead. Length: 1 mile Trailhead Elevation: 6700 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 134 feet Uses: Day Hiking | , |
| Crystal Point Trail | Open | Crystal Point is a non-motorized trail that climbs up to a great vantage point for the surrounding area. It begins at FR 240 and ends at Trail End. Length: 3.2 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6860 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 362 feet Uses: Day Hiking | 34.9392, -111.6196 |
| Frog Tank Loop | Open | Length: 2.9 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6600 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 262 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Interstate | Open | Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 10.6 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6600 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 1200 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Iron Springs Connector | Open | Length: 1 mile Trailhead Elevation: 6700 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 127 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Janice Place | Open | Length: 0.23 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6600 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 55 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Leap Frog | Open | Length: 9.5 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6600 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 2071 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Little Horse | Open | Length: 6.7 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6860 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 790 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Mud Tank | Open | Length: 0.83 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6700 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 112 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Munds Canyon | Open | Length: 2.2 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6860 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 363 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Rocky Road | Open | Length: 4.6 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6700 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 887 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
| Willard | Open | Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 4.8 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6600 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 740 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , |
| Trail | Status | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caves East | Open | Difficulty: Easy Length: 1.3 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6677 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 235 feet Uses: Day Hiking | , |
| Caves East Access | Open | Difficulty: Easy Length: 0.14 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6677 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 88 feet Uses: Day Hiking | , |
| Cinders | Open | Difficulty: Easy Length: 0.61 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6677 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 95 feet Uses: Day Hiking | , |
| Cinders Access | Open | Difficulty: Easy Length: 0.2 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6677 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 73 feet Uses: Day Hiking | , |
| Old Caves Crater Trail | Open | From the trailhead, Old Caves Crater Trail takes you through volcanic cinder fields and Ponderosa Pines to the base of an extinct cinder cone volcano. As you climb Old Caves Crater the vegetation changes to a mix of mostly pinion and juniper trees with a few ponderosas. The trail heads towards the base of the cinder cone, then travels up the side where you'll encounter switchbacks before it turns towards the interior of the crater and up to the rim. At the top of the rim, the trail splits. Head off to the right to go to the "old caves" and off to the left to go to the summit. From there, the trail goes down the other side of the crater rim and comes back out near the trail system in the flats where you can get back to the trailhead. There is another trail (Crater Loop Trail) which loops completely around the base of the volcano, then through a tree covered cinder field and on back to the trailhead. Difficulty: Moderate Length: 3.45 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6677 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 655 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 35.2703, -111.5358 |
| Old Caves North Access | Open | Difficulty: Easy Length: 0.45 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6677 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 96 feet Uses: Day Hiking | , |
| Old Caves South Access | Open | Difficulty: Easy Length: 0.36 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6677 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 44 feet Uses: Day Hiking | , |
| Old Caves Summit | Open | Difficulty: Easy Length: 0.05 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6677 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 20 feet Uses: Day Hiking | , |
The Schultz Creek area is the entry point to the Mt. Elden/Dry Lake Hills Trail System located to the north and west of Flagstaff. This area, located just outside Flagstaff city limits, is a highly desired location for runners, hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders. The trails enable a variety of loop options by connecting trails in Dry Lake Hills with Schultz Creek and Rocky Ridge trails.
The Schultz Creek Loops includes 7.7 miles of new, natural surface singletrack trail: Big Bang highlights the unique and dramatic landscape of Dry Lake Hills; Space Walk is slightly less than a mile and circumnavigates the smaller hill locally known as 2nd bench providing several trail connections with massive views of both the San Francisco Peaks and Flagstaff; Dipper trail traverses the front side of the 2nd bench and is an enjoyable climb or descent; Pluto is a short connector between Space Walk and Dipper trails through a unique drainage that provides a different experience on several rock slabs; Apollo extends from Dipper to create a connection to Rocky Ridge trail and is an easily accessible trail from the popular Schultz Creek Trailhead.
If you hike this trail during a quiet time, Abert's squirrels and Steller's jays are animals you might see here. During late spring and early summer this is a good place to hear the musical trill of the Hermit thrush.
| Trail | Status | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apollo | Open | Apollo Trail is part of the Mount Elden Dry Lake Hills Trail System and the Schultz Creek Loops Trail System. Difficulty: Easy Length: 0.3 miles Trailhead Elevation: 7201 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 31 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
| Big Bang | Open | Big Bang Trail is part of the Mount Elden Dry Lake Hills Trail System and the Schultz Creek Loops Trail System. Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 4.4 miles Trailhead Elevation: 7201 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 1286 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
| Dipper | Open | Dipper Trail is part of the Mount Elden Dry Lake Hills Trail System and the Schultz Creek Loops Trail System. Difficulty: Moderate Length: 1.4 miles Trailhead Elevation: 7201 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 447 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
| Pluto | Open | Pluto Trail is part of the Mount Elden Dry Lake Hills Trail System and the Schultz Creek Loops Trail System. Difficulty: Moderate Length: 0.26 miles Trailhead Elevation: 7201 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 118 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
| Schultz Creek Trail No. 152 | Open | Schultz Creek Trail is part of the Mount Elden Dry Lake Hills Trail System, Schultz Tank Trail System, and the Schultz Creek Loops Trail System. Difficulty: Moderate Length: 4.27 miles Trailhead Elevation: 7201 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 916 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
| Spacewalk | Open | Spacewalk Trail is part of the Mount Elden Dry Lake Hills Trail System and the Schultz Creek Loops Trail System. Difficulty: Easy Length: 0.88 miles Trailhead Elevation: 7201 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 118 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , |
The Schultz Tank system is located on the north side of Dry Lake Hills and on the southern flanks of the San Francisco Peaks. The area is bisected by the FR 420/Schultz Pass Road and can also be accessed from the FR 556/Little Elden Springs Road. The trails that start from this system provide various outdoor recreation experiences. Hikers and equestrians can use the Weatherford trail to access the Kachina Peaks Wilderness. The trails that lead south into the non-motorized Dry Lake Hills area include Sunset, Schultz Creek, and Broadside trails. E-Bikes and dirt bikers can utilize the motorized trail system of Fort Valley from the Schultz Tank trailhead. Fort Valley is located to the north and west of Schultz Pass Rd.
Trailside vegetation changes as elevation increases, from ponderosa pine to more alpine species such as Limber pine, Aspen, White fir, and Douglas fir. At about 9,000 feet a very noisy black, gray, and white bird makes its first appearance. This is the Clarks nutcracker, a type of jay, which is more commonly thought of as a resident of the Rocky Mountains but finds this part of Arizona very much to its liking. Black bear and mountain lions frequent the area but are shy creatures and rarely seen. You may also encounter wild turkey and blue grouse that come to Schultz Tank as a water source.
| Trail | Status | Description | Location | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AZT Fort Valley | Open | AZT Fort Valley Trail is part of the Fort Valley Trail System and Schultz Tank Trail System. Several sections of the trail were designed by a local biking organization to provide a more challenging ride for the more experienced mountain bike rider. The trail consists of loops that link with the Schultz Creek, Dry Lake Hill and Mt. Elden trail system. Fort Valley trail is in the Chimney Springs area, just north of Flagstaff. The area has a gradual sloping terrain that consists of several shallow canyons and sweeping views of the San Francisco Peaks. Ponderosa pine and Gambel oak trees are the primary type of vegetation with New Mexico locust and an occasional hedgehog cactus. Difficulty: Moderate Length: 7.47 miles Trailhead Elevation: 8108 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 631 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , | |
| Broadside | Open | Broadside Trail is part of the Mount Elden Dry Lake Hills Trail System and the Schultz Tank Trail System . Difficulty: Easy Length: 3.24 miles Trailhead Elevation: 8108 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 692 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , | |
| Little Elden Trail No. 69 | Open | During the winter, roads leading into the area are closed to vehicles. Little Elden Trail is part of the Mount Elden Dry Lake Hills Trail System and the Schultz Tank Trail System . The Little Elden Trail leads the user into the heart of the Peaks trail system, at Schultz Tank. From this point you can connect to the Dry Lake Hills/Mount Elden trails to the south, or the Kachina Peaks Wilderness trail system to the north. The Little Elden Trail winds along the north side of Little Elden Mountain through stands of gamble oak and Ponderosa pine. Difficulty: Moderate Length: 5.33 miles Trailhead Elevation: 8108 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 1069 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | , | |
| Schultz Creek Trail No. 152 | Open | Some portions of this trail are closed due to the Pipeline Fire Closure Order. Schultz Creek Trail is part of the Mount Elden Dry Lake Hills Trail System, Schultz Tank Trail System, and the Schultz Creek Loops Trail System. Schultz Creek Trail parallels one of several intermittent drainages that carry water from the higher reaches of the San Francisco Peaks. Generally the stream only has water in it a few months of every year, either during the spring snow melt or after a summer monsoon. However, even when there is no water here, which is most of the time, walking beside the water-smoothed stones and ledges worn by ephemeral waterfalls can still give one the pleasant feeling of being near a brook even if you have to imagine the babble This trail has one of the most moderate gradients on any in the San Francisco Peaks/Mt. Elden area. Still, it has enough ups and downs to be extremely popular with mountain bikers. So, if you come for a hike or a horseback ride, keep your ears and eyes open and be ready to share the trail with other users. If you hike this trail during a quiet time, Abert's squirrels and Steller's jays are animals you might see here. During late spring and early summer this is a good place to hear the musical trill of the hermit thrush. Schultz Creek Trail serves as a connecting trail between Rocky Ridge Trail and the Sunset Trail. Difficulty: Moderate Length: 4.27 miles Trailhead Elevation: 8108 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 916 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | , | |
| Schultz Tank | Open | Difficulty: Easy Length: 0.16 miles Trailhead Elevation: 8108 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 9 feet Uses: Day Hiking | , | |
| Secret | Open | Secret is part of the Fort Valley Trail System and Schultz Tank Trail System. Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 5.9 miles Trailhead Elevation: 8108 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 1051 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding | , | |
| Sunset Trail No. 23 | Open | Sunset Trail is part of the Mount Elden Dry Lake Hills Trail System and the Schultz Tank Trail System. Views of the San Francisco Peaks, the volcanic fields east of Flagstaff, Sunset Crater and even the Painted Desert are yours to enjoy along this high country trail. The route starts near Schultz Tank, a rare body of water here in these mountains Spanish explorers called sin agua (without water). It climbs gradually to a high ridge where you'll find good views of Arizona's tallest mountain before continuing on to the east edge of Mount Elden's summit plateau. From this high perspective you can look down on Sunset Crater and the Bonito Lava Flow that borders it. As you hike, take time out to check for black bear tracks. A few of these shy animals live in this area, but usually all you see of them are their tracks. You have a much better chance of seeing elk and mule deer which are more plentiful and much less shy. Along its highest reaches, the Sunset Trail traverses an area devastated by a fierce wildfire in 1977. At one point there was concern that the city of Flagstaff might even be consumed by this campfire gone wild. Here, among the burned out hulks of a once thriving forest you can see how nature recovers from such an all-consuming disaster. Pioneer plants such as aspen and Gambel oaks are already well established in the burned-over area. Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 5 miles Trailhead Elevation: 8108 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 1587 feet Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | , | |
| Weatherford Trail No. 102 | Open | Weatherford Trail is part of the Kachina Trail System and the Schultz Tank Trail System. The remains of an old road that once took Model T Fords to the top of the San Francisco Peaks provides the route for this winding mountain trail. The road has since been closed to vehicle traffic to protect the area's alpine environment, and the upper reaches of the mountain have been set aside as the Kachina Peaks Wilderness Area so forest visitors can enjoy its panoramic views in the relative seclusion and natural surroundings such an area provides. Along the steady but gradual climb, views stretch to Oak Creek Canyon and the Verde Valley over fifty miles away. Trailside vegetation changes as elevation increases, from ponderosa pine to more alpine species such as limber pine, corkbark fir, and bristlecone pine. At about 9,000 feet a very noisy black, gray, and white bird makes its first appearance. This is the Clarks nutcracker, a type of jay, which is more commonly thought of as a resident of the Rocky Mountains but finds this part of Arizona very much to its liking. Black bear are sighted periodically as are wild turkey and blue grouse. The Weatherford Trail is an excellent place to hear the bugling of bull elk in the Fall, as they gather their harems for the breeding season. It's also one of the best places on the forest to enjoy the autumn change of leaves among the huge aspen groves in the mountain's inner basin. Come early, though, the leaves change here well ahead of anyplace else on the forest. The Weatherford Trail ends at its intersection with the Humphreys Trail, which then continues on to the top of Mt. Humphreys the highest point in Arizona at 12,643 feet. Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 10.44 miles Trailhead Elevation: 8108 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 3740 feet Uses: Day Hiking | , | |
Sycamore Canyon is the second largest canyon in Arizona and offers hikers plenty of solitude and natural beauty.
| Trail | Status | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dorsey Spring Trail No. 7 | Open | Dorsey Spring Trail descends very gradually as you hike through shady ponderosa pine, Gamble oak, and juniper trees. The last quarter mile is a little steeper as it drops into Dorsey Spring which normally runs all year. There is a great area to camp near Dorsey Spring. The Dorsey Spring Trail terminates at the junction with Kelsey Trail near Dorsey Spring. Dorsey Trail and Kelsey Trail make a great 7.3 mile loop hike. Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 2.3 miles Trailhead Elevation: 7000 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 276 feet Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 35.054761, -111.919973 |
| Hog Hill Trail No. 70 | Open | Hog Hill Trail is an alternate route which branches off the Dorsey Spring Trail about a quarter mile from the Dorsey Trailhead. The trail descends gradually through ponderosa pine, Gambel oak, and juniper trees. In the last quarter mile, the trail descends steeply just before you arrive at the junction with Winter Cabin Trail. Winter Cabin in located about 250 feet down Winter Cabin Trail from the junction of Hog Hill Trail. Water is available at Winter Cabin Spring which normally runs all year. Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 2.1 miles Trailhead Elevation: 7000 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 188 feet Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 35.054761, -111.919973 |
| Kelsey Trail No. 3 | Open | From the Kelsey Trailhead, you immediately descend into a shady forested canyon of ponderosa pine mixed with Douglas fir, Gambel oak, and juniper trees. Most of the length of the trail is gradual up and down with only a few short steep areas. Along the trail water can be obtained, usually year-round, at Kelsey Spring, Babes Hole Spring, Dorsey Spring, and Winter Cabin Spring. There are many spectacular panoramic views of Sycamore Canyon as you hike along the trail. Kelsey Trail and the Dorsey Spring Trail make a great 7.3 mile day hike loop. The Kelsey Trail terminates at the junction of Winter Cabin Trail. Note: Kelsey Trail is often referred to as Kelsey Spring Trail, Kelsey Winter Trail, or Kelsey-Winter Cabin Trail. Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 5.4 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6565 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 1503 feet Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 35.074527, -111.929759 |
| Little L.O. Trail No. 6 | Open | Little L.O. Trail (Little Lookout Trail) branches off of Kelsey Trail not far from Babes Hole Spring and starts out with a gradual descent, then dives steeply into Sycamore Canyon and terminates at Sycamore Creek. The trail is mostly shady as it passes through ponderosa pine, Gambel oak, and juniper trees. Geronimo Spring is located where the trail meets Sycamore Creek and there is a good camp site located along the trail near the spring. Little L.O. Trail terminates at Sycamore Creek. Water is available at Kelsey Spring, Babes Hole Spring, and Geronimo Spring, which normally run all year. Little L.O. Trail is often referred to as Geronimo Spring Trail, and sometimes Little Lookout Trail. Hover mouse cursor over photo to display slideshow controls. Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 0.63 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6565 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 863 feet Uses: Backpacking Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 35.073059, -111.939379 |
| Winter Cabin Trail No. 70 | Open | Winter Cabin Trail descends gradually through ponderosa pine, Gambel oak, and juniper trees with many shaded areas for about a mile and a half to the historic Winter Cabin. Winter Cabin Spring, which normally runs all year is located in the creek behind the cabin and about 30 feet down stream on the other side of the creek. A camp site is located near the cabin. At the cabin you can connect with Hog Hill Trail and Kelsey Trail, or you can continue on Winter Cabin Trail in a southwest direction as the trail descends about 1,500 feet of elevation in 3.5 miles through chaparral type of vegetation and a partially shaded canyon to Sycamore Creek. There is no water available in this area of Sycamore Creek. At Sycamore Creek you can connect with the Sycamore Basin Trail #63 which runs down stream along Sycamore Creek. Along the lower part of Winter Cabin Trail there is a short side hike to Ott Lake where water is unreliable. Sycamore Basin Trail #63 is on the Prescott National Forest. Difficulty: Strenuous Length: 5.91 miles Trailhead Elevation: 6900 feet Elevation Gain/Loss: 2934 feet Uses: Backpacking Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 35.023344, -111.923506 |
| Waterline Trail | Open | The Waterline Trail begins at the heart of Schultz Pass, traverses the northeast slope of the San Francisco Peaks into the Inner Basin and then continues north and northwest to Abineau Canyon. The views include the volcanic fields east of Flagstaff, Sunset Crater, the Painted Desert and the Grand Canyon ninety miles away. This old road (also known as the Watershed Road) runs along the base of a long talus slope topped by Arizona's highest point, Humphreys Peak. The southern portion of the road borders the Kachina Peaks Wilderness and from the Inner Basin to the Abineau Trail both sides of the road are Wilderness. Remember the trail itself is open to all non-motorized use (foot, horse, bicycle), but no mechanized vehicles, including mountain bikes, are allowed in Wilderness. There is a chance you may see sign of the shy Black bear here. Elk and mule deer are abundant in this area. Common bird species you may see include: Dark-eyed junco, Stellar Jay and Clark's nutcracker. Related Trails These trails intersect Waterline Trail, and can make good starting or ending points for loops and shuttle hikes, or extending in-and-out hike: Inner Basin: This trail actually follows Waterline Trail for about a half mile up to Jack Spring before it continues up into the Inner Basin of the San Francisco Peaks. From Jack Spring, it's approximately 3 miles to Bear Jaw Trail and 5 miles to Abineau Trail up Waterline Trail, providing two options for a 7 or 9 mile shuttle hike. Abineau and Bear Jaw Trails: These two trails start from the same trailhead, then split after a quarter mile to take different routes up the mountain. Each are approximately two miles long, and top out at Waterline Trail approximately two miles apart. These three trails make up one of the best loop hikes in the Forest, particularly when the aspens turn golden in the autumn. Waterline's gentle grade makes it a welcome relief after topping either of these strenuous trails. The steep slopes surrounding this trail were severely burned during the 2010 Schultz Fire. Hazards are still in the area. Trees weakened by fire damage and other loose debris may fall onto the trail at any time. Use caution! Stay on the trail, be aware of your surroundings, don't linger around large burned trees, and avoid the area during strong winds or rains. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 35.287378, -111.624051 |
| Trails | Status | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona Trail (Equestrian Bypass) No. 87C | Open | This segment of the state-spanning Arizona Trail was designed to give the equestrian user an alternate route around Flagstaff to avoid the busy city traffic and also to provide a safe way to cross Interstate 40. The trail follows the rim of Walnut canyon so have your camera ready, as the views are spectacular. There will be a variety of photo opportunities including scenic canyon shots to fabulous views of the San Francisco Peaks. There is also an abundance of wildlife. Keep your eyes open for elk, deer, antelope, squirrels, fox, coyote and many varieties of birds. Additional information is available on the Arizona Trail Association website. Uses: Backpacking, Hiking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 35.1803, -111.5321 |
| Arizona Trail (Marshall Lake-Fisher Point) No.87 | Open | Plentiful wildlife and great views of the San Francisco Peaks provide the major features of interest on this section of the state-spanning Arizona Trail. For the best views, begin at the Marshall Lake Trailhead. This vital wetland, which is more of a marsh than a lake, is frequented by bald eagles in winter and osprey in summer. Waterfowl and a variety of smaller hawks are generally present year-round. The bulk of the trail winds across Anderson Mesa, a broad grassy upland dotted with widely spaced trees. The open character of the terrain here provides excellent opportunities to view the area's wildlife residents. Anderson Mesa supports a rich and diverse community of wild animals some of the larger and more visible are elk, mule deer, whitetail deer, wild turkey, Abert's squirrels, coyotes, and pronghorn antelope. As you near Fisher Point and drop into Walnut Canyon, have your camera ready for some of the most photogenic views of the San Francisco Peaks available anywhere on the Forest. There are even some red rock cliffs here that are reminiscent of Oak Creek and the Grand Canyon. Additional information is available on the Arizona Trail Association website. Uses: Backpacking, Hiking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 35.112, -111.5409 |
| Arizona Trail Passage 34: San Francisco Peaks | Open | The AZ Trail is closed from the intersection of the Fred Haught Trail to SR 87. The San Francisco Peaks Passage (AZT-34) of the Arizona National Scenic Trail skirts around the southern and western flanks of the San Francisco Peaks. This passage is 36 miles long, traversing between the southern trailhead at Schultz Pass and the northern trailhead at Cedar Ranch. Schultz Pass to Aspen Loop: At the southern end, the trail is accessed 50 yards or so up Weatherford Trail from the trailhead. The gently rolling trail meanders through ponderosa pine forest for approximately 5 miles, crossing Snowbowl Road at 7600' elevation. The trail climbs approximately 1500' feet over the next 5 miles to the Arizona Snowbowl area. The trail joins Aspen Loop trail less than a mile later. The Snowbowl is approximately a mile up Aspen Loop Trail. Aspen Loop to Bismarck Lake Trail (and Hart Prairie): From the junction with Aspen Loop Trail, the Arizona Trail descends gently for 2 miles, crosses Hart Prairie, continuing another 0.5 miles to the junction with Bismarck Lake Trail. Bismarck Lake is less than 0.5 mile from the junction. The lake is in a large, very picturesque meadow with stunning Peaks views, and provides opportunities for spotting elk, deer, and other wildlife. This segment offers fantastic views of Agassiz and Humphreys Peaks (the two highest peaks in Arizona), as well as views west towards Kendrick Peak and across Hart Prairie. Start at the Aspen Loop or Bismarck Lake trailhead for a memorable day hike, bike, or ride. These are wonderful for hiking and biking kids: start at Bismark Lake Trail, which is closer to Hart Prairie, and will be a downhill trip back to the trailhead. Bismarck Lake Trail to Cedar (Babbitt) Ranch: The trail descends, crossing the junction with a spur trail (an old road) to Little Spring. Little Spring is approximately 0.5 miles along this old road, and is generally a reliable water source. The trail crosses FR 418, passes to the southwest of the White Horse Hills, and heads to Kelly Tank. The trail continues a gradual descent, passing other tanks and often following roads as it makes its way north towards Missouri Bill Hill. From here, it swings west towards Cedar Ranch, where the trail leaves the Coconino National Forest and this passage ends. Uses: Backpacking, Hiking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 35.286873, -111.62666 |
| Aspen Nature Loop Trail No. 73 | Open | Bring your camera on this spectacular 2.5 mile hike. Situated on sloping meadows and open glades high on the western slope of the San Francisco Peaks, the Aspen Nature Loop Trail affords unhindered views of the volcanic field to the west and the Grand Canyon to the north. The Peaks loom high above with fine views of the nearby Arizona Snowbowl. Beginning at the Humphreys Trailhead and branching west, the way leads through micro habitats where sun-loving wildflowers and grasses alternate with shade plants and ferns along the trail's winding, 300-foot elevation change. Birds of the open glades abound: flickers, jays, juncos, and warblers. Aspen, spruce, and pine stand along the trail, including several large bristlecones. Higher up the Peaks, these trees can live well over a thousand years! Completed in 2007 and modified in 2019 by the Forest Service in cooperation with the City of Flagstaff, Coconino County, Flagstaff Biking, Arizona Trail Association, Coconino Trail Riders, CREC, and Gore Corporation, the trail offers opportunities to learn about northern Arizona's volcanoes, habitat extremes, and all the ways we protect and enjoy our beloved Peaks. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | , |
| Bismarck Lake Trail | Open | During the winter, roads leading into the area are closed to vehicles. Located off FR 151 (Hart Prairie Road) on the west flank of the San Francisco Peaks. Bismarck Lake Trail is 1.5 miles long and terminates into the Arizona National Scenic Trail to the east. Bismarck Lake is an important water source for wildlife in the area but is often dry during the driest months of the year. The trail and lake are located in a large meadow and have excellent views of the San Francisco Peaks. It is at an elevation of approximately 8500'. It's about 3 miles northwest of Snowbowl. Elk, deer and raptors are common sights here. This a fairly easy hike, making a gentle uphill climb from the trailhead to the Arizona Trail. Hover your mouse over the image to show the slideshow controls. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 35.33125, -111.712429 |
| Brookbank Trail No. 2 | Open | During the winter, roads leading into the area are closed to vehicles. This trail is conveniently close to Flagstaff and attracts a large number of weekend and afternoon recreators. It is regularly used by mountain bikers, hikers, and horseback riders who come to enjoy the easily accessible escape to quiet and solitude. Keep an eye out for bicyclists. From FR 557 the trail leads up a moderately steep slope along a forested wash. Along the way it offers good views of Flagstaff and the extensive ponderosa pine forest that surrounds it. The rim of Oak Creek Canyon provides a dramatic backdrop. The route passes through alternating areas of forest and meadow as the main feature of the view changes from Flagstaff to the San Francisco Peaks. At this point most likely you'll find yourself reaching for your camera. There are a number of good places along this trail to observe a variety of wildlife species ranging from elk and mule deer to blue grouse and goshawks. A good way to get an idea of which species of wild animals live in the area is to watch the trail for their tracks, although you may have a hard time sorting out the coyote tracks from those of the family pets which regularly accompany their humans on this trail. If you see the track of one of the black bears which make this area their home, however, you'll probably have no such problem. The Brookbank Trail ends at a low saddle where it meets the Sunset Trail. This trail leads northwest to Schultz Pass and FR 420 or southeast to the summit of Mt. Elden. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 35.36172, -111.73332 |
| Dairy Springs Trail No. 136 | Open | During the winter, roads leading into the area are closed to vehicles. This short, self-guided nature trail is most popular with campers at Dairy Springs Campground. The trail winds through a forest of ponderosa pines interspersed with white firs and junipers that spreads across the lower slopes of 8,449 foot Mormon Mountain. Interpretive stations along the route enable hikers equipped with trail guides to learn more about the complex ecosystem that makes up the northern Arizona forest. They'll help you learn the names of all those trees, too. Trail guides are available, in season, from the campground host. Dairy Springs Nature Trail is actually a spur off the longer Mormon Mountain Trail which leads to the top of the smallest of the major volcanoes in the San Francisco Peaks volcanic area. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 35.254214, -111.62492 |
| Deer Hill Trail No. 99 | Open | If you are looking for a gentle trail that meanders between semi-dense forest and wide open country then this one is for you. In addition, you will enjoy spectacular views of the San Francisco Peaks worthy of bringing along your camera: especially during the fall season when the aspen trees on the mountain side explode into a glow of brilliant gold. If you're lucky you may also get a chance to take a snapshot of the abundant wildlife that roam this area. Mule deer and elk are often seen foraging along the trail corridor, especially during the early morning and early evening hours. Also, keep you ears open for Abert squirrels and Steller's jays that often compete to see who can be the loudest, and don't be alarmed to hear the early morning yelps of coyotes as they bid one another good morning. This trail, which is relatively flat, travels north from Little Elden Springs Horse Camp towards Sunset Crater. It was constructed primarily to accommodate equestrians that visit the campground, but by no means does that restrict hikers and mountain bikers from using the trail. In fact, don't be surprised if you see more hikers and mountain bikers on the trail than horses. September 30, 2017: Deer Hill Trail re-opened for the first time since the 2010 Schultz Fire! Our deepest thanks to REI, American Conservation Experience, Youth Conservation Corp, and all the fantastic volunteers and sponsors who contributed to repairing the fire and flood damage, and making the trail safe once again for horses, boots, and bikes! Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 35.282101, -111.57579 |
| Doney Trail No. 39 | Open | If you're interested in a short scenic walk in desert volcano country, with a great view of the painted desert and the San Francisco Peaks at trail's end, you'll want to check out the Doney Trail. This half mile hike begins at the Doney Picnic Area and climbs gradually up the side of a volcanic cinder cone to a panoramic overlook. Interpretive signs posted along the way tell you about the unique ecology of this rugged area and about the adventures of Ben Doney who prospected these hills for gold. You'll even see one of Doney's old digs along the way. Also along the trail you'll see two prehistoric ruins with signs interpreting their role in the local community and how they related to prehistoric farming practices. If you don't have lunch at the picnic area, you might want to pack it along. There's a bench at the top of the climb where you can savor your snack while you enjoy the scenery. An interpretive sign there gives you the contemporary as well as the Hopi names of all the landmarks in the view. It provides interesting mealtime reading. (Don't forget to pack out everything you brought in. You wouldn't want to spoil the dining room for the next person.) Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 35.531736, -111.404498 |
| Griffith Spring Trail No. 189 | Open | During the winter, roads leading into the area are closed to vehicles. Griffith's Spring is a shaded and peaceful one-mile loop trail that is close to Flagstaff and is an excellent example of a riparian habitat. James Griffith was a Civil War veteran that came west to homestead in the late 1800's. The spring was part of the homestead which consisted of over 160 acres of diverse countryside. Following the trail to the right at the beginning of the loop, you'll walk through a Ponderosa pine forest on a wide, well-maintained path. The trail follows a small canyon to a tank that forms a stream in late summer months after heavy rains. Near the stream you may see wild iris, lupine and hear western bluebirds, robins and hummingbirds. Continuing on up the trail a short distance you'll find Griffith's Spring. This spring runs into Pump House Wash, then eventually into Oak Creek. There is a board crossing the spring, but you will turn around and rejoin the trail going to the right to complete the loop. Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, Picnicking, Picnicking | 35.11522, -111.711847 |
| Kendrick Park Watchable Wildlife Trail | Open | This trail bridges the habitats of forest and grassland making it an ideal location to encounter residents of both places. Wildlife live here. You may experience the presence of a wide variety of bird, insect and animal life on this unique trail. Some of the wildlife you may see are Steller's jay, northern flicker, pygmy nuthatch, hairy woodpecker, red-tailed hawk, mule deer, porcupine, pronghorn antelope, elk, Abert's squirrel, badger and coyote. Watch for animal tracks, scat, burrows and nests, traces of fur or feathers, and other signs that wildlife use this area. You will also see evidence of human impact on the environment. The local animal life, forest and grassland vegetation, wildfire occurrences, historic presence of man and many other stories are interpreted for you along the way. There are tremendous views of the San Francisco Peaks, Kendrick Mountain, and Kendrick Park. The Trails : There are two trails located at this site. A short loop is paved to allow wheelchair access. A longer loop is 4 feet wide with native surface and is located on flat terrain-- it is an easy hike. Both trails provide an educational interpretive experience. Length : Short Loop 1/4 mile -- paved for wheelchair access. Longer Loop one and one-half miles. Difficulty : Easy Hiking Time : Short Loop: 20 min., Longer loop: 1 hour Uses: Day Hiking, Nature Viewing, Viewing Wildlife | 35.402033, -111.755819 |
| Lakeview Trail No. 132 | Open | During the winter, roads leading into the area are closed to vehicles. There's an excellent view of Mormon Lake and the forested volcanic hills that surround it waiting for you at a scenic overlook along this moderate, 2 mile hike. Lakeview Trail climbs gradually, through a stand of ponderosa pines, to the top of a rugged rock outcrop that stands high above the surrounding countryside. This rocky promontory offers panoramic views of lake and meadow, forests and mountains. Trailside log benches at the overlook make it a comfortable spot for a lunch with a view. While you're there, notice that this high cool place is home to a number of plants that we more readily associate with a desert environment. Tucked among the rocks at the overlook you'll find broadleaf yucca and a couple of different kinds of hedgehog cactus-watch where you step and especially where you sit. From here you can continue on to trail's end at Winsor Tank. There you'll find aspen groves and a green mountain meadow that's a good place to happen upon elk or mule deer browsing in the open. Arizona Trail Note: This trail serves as a portion of the Mormon Lake Passage 29 of the Arizona Trail. See the Arizona Trail Association website for maps and information for this National Scenic Trail. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.941602, -111.49345 |
| Ledges Trail No. 138 | Open | During the winter, roads leading into the area are closed to vehicles. Ledges Trail offers forest visitors an easy hike to a scenic overlook of Mormon Lake and the volcanic hills surrounding it. The route leads past a group of rustic summer cabins and then begins a gradual climb to the top of a rocky outcrop that gives the trail its name. Along the way, it passes through open stands of ponderosa pines punctuated with a few juniper trees and Gambel oaks. Small trailside meadows provide a chance to observe some of the area's resident elk and mule deer. The rock ledges at the overlook jut clear of the trees and provide an unobstructed view of the lake and the surrounding mountains and forests. Look closely here, it's a good place to see a hawk or bald eagle gliding on the wind, hunting the brushy flats along the shore. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 35.955632, -111.489156 |
| Little Round Mountain Trail | Open | This is a wilderness trail accessing the upper reaches Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness. This is a class 1 primitive trail, often unmarked, overgrown, with many obstacles common requiring route finding skills. Uses: Day Hiking | , |
| Mormon Mountain Trail No. 58 | Open | During the winter, roads leading into the area are closed to vehicles. This trail to the top of 8,449 foot Mormon Mountain climbs gradually through a forest of ponderosa pine, mixed conifers, and aspen. At a number of places along the route openings in the forest canopy provide long distance views of Mormon Lake (see notes below) and the grassy flats and forest-covered hills that surround it. The trail begins at the rear of the group campground of Dairy Springs Campground, which is located just west of the road that borders Mormon Lake's eastern shore. For a short distance after leaving the trailhead, Mormon Mountain Trail shares the path with the self-guided nature trail that skirts the campground. The mountain trail then branches off on its own to complete the 1,500 foot climb. As the trail nears the top of Mormon Mountain it joins a primitive road (FR 648) which leads to the summit and good views of Mormon Lake and the San Francisco Peaks. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.955633, -111.489157 |
| O'Leary Peak Trail | Open | During the winter, parking area may be inaccessible to vehicles. O'Leary Peak is a lava dome volcano, not a cinder cone like Sunset Crater Volcano. The hike is along a roadbed, which is rough with pot holes, rocks and eroded sections. You may take your pet on this road on a leash. Summer temperatures can be fatal to pets left in vehicles. The route up is a blocked off forest service road. Initially, one could drive up to the pass between O'leary and Darton Dome, but the entrance has been pushed back. Now there is about another mile you have to hike to even reach the base of the peak. During this part of the hike, you walk along Sunset Crater's impressive lava flow. It's worth getting off the trail and checking out. There are a total of 6 switchbacks to the tower, which is not on the Peak. The peak is O'Leary's western summit. To hike it, get off the road between the two summits and hike up until you reach the top. This is the most difficult part of the climb. The tower sits at 8,916, and offers fantastic views. You can see into the Inner Basin of the San Francisco Peaks, into the crater of Sunset Crater and to the north you can see the Painted Desert. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 35.3722, -111.5413 |
| Red Mountain Trail No. 159 | Open | Red Mountain, located in the Coconino National Forest of northern Arizona, 25 miles northwest of Flagstaff, is a volcanic cinder cone that rises 1,000 feet above the surrounding landscape. It is unusual in having the shape of a "U" and in lacking the symmetrical shape of most cinder cones. In addition, a large natural amphitheater cuts into the cone's northeast flank. Erosional pillars called "hoodoos"; decorate the amphitheater, and many dark mineral crystals erode out of its walls. Studies by U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Northern Arizona University scientists suggest that Red Mountain formed in eruptions about 740,000 years ago. Roughly the last half of the foot trail follows a normally dry stream bed. Uses: Day Hiking | 35.5369595, -111.856497 |
| Secret Mountain Trail No. 109 | Open | This trail can be accessed from the end of FR 538 on the rim or as an add-on to the Loy Canyon Trail. The trail climbs up from the Secret Mountain Saddle where it joins with the Loy Canyon Trail. Because of the remoteness and infrequent use of the trail, the trail can be easily lost. Several trail spurs take the hiker to spectacular views but pay attention to where you left the main trail. There is only one way to return and that is the way in. If you lose the trail, retrace your steps immediately to pick up the trail again. Rating : Moderate Hiking time: 5 hours (round trip) Notes : No motorized vehicles, no mechanized vehicles in Wilderness Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.97951, -111.900437 |
| Slate Mountain Trail No. 128 | Open | Though this trail has a humble beginning at an old roadblock, it quickly reveals itself to be one of the Coconino National Forest's premier day hikes. Actually an old jeep track, now used solely as a foot trail, this 2.4 mile climb is a gradual but steady ascent along a wide gravel track to some of the best views on the forest. Interpretive signs along the way add a bit of educational interest by naming trailside species of trees and shrubs. Near the top of the climb, the path spirals up the mountain's narrow summit like a stripe up a barber pole. The effect is as if you were riding past some of the Forest's most spectacular scenery on a huge lazy Susan. The San Francisco Peaks, Kendrick Mountain, Red Mountain, the Grand Canyon, Painted Desert, you can see them all, just by turning your head, from the top of Slate Mountain. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 35.486049, -111.836515 |
| Strawberry Crater Trail | Open | Access via FR546 damaged by flooding in summer 2022. High clearance recommended. Take this 1.1 mile round trip hike through the north side Stawberry Crater. A volcanic cinder cone and lava flow form the centerpiece of the 10,141 acre Strawberry Crater Wilderness. Though the area last erupted around the time that knighthood was about to flower in Europe, the volcanic features you'll see here look as if they had happened much more recently. Molten rock frozen in time still shows scrape marks left as it squeezed up through cracks in the cooler surface. Petrified bubbles of once boiling stone look as fresh as the sparse vegetation that struggles for a foothold on this rugged moonscape. Plentiful ruins scattered across this inhospitable landscape prove the resourcefulness of an ancient people who lived here even as the land still fumed and spouted. In places you can also see remnants of the gardens they cultivated using volcanic cinders as a water-retaining mulch. On the horizon, the San Francisco Peaks, Sunset Crater, and the Painted Desert add another dimension to the view. Uses: Day Hiking | 35.443958, -111.473179 |
Mogollon Rim Ranger District
| Trail | Status | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barbershop Trail No. 91 | Open | Barbershop Trail meanders through a pleasant region of open forests and shallow canyons. This trail is an excellent place to enjoy a woodland stroll or a weekend backpack. You will find a wide variety of tree species, including maple, aspen and oak, scattered among the more typical ponderosa pine and Douglas fir. The high proportion of deciduous trees makes this trail an especially colorful place in the Fall. There is plenty of wildlife to see at all seasons of the year. Watch for wild turkey, mule deer and elk. There are black bear in the area too, but they are much harder to see. Especially while you are so busy enjoying the scenery. The rather unique name for this trail comes from a sheepherder who once lived in the area. He was good at clipping his fellow herders as he sheared woolies. Barbershop Trail is one of several trails in the historic Cabin Loop Trail System, which tours several now retired Forest Service cabins in Rim Country. Uses: Backpacking Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.443318, -111.142362 |
| Fred Haught Trail No. 141 | Open | This historic trail is part of the Cabin Loop Trail System. It was named after a rancher who once used it to move cattle and supplies from ridge to ridge and valley to valley in the roadless wilderness above the Mogollon Rim. Today it provides hikers and horseback riders access to this scenic area of shallow canyons and forested ridges. The Fred Haught trail was almost lost to neglect after a system of ridge top roads replaced it as the main route for commerce and travel in the 1950's. However, a renewed interest in the area by recreationists and history buffs inspired its recent reopening. You'll find a hike along this trail leisurely and scenic, with a good chance to see wildlife and ample opportunity to imagine what it must have been like when horses and trails were the only way of traversing this picturesque countryside. The monument of the Battle of Big Dry Wash shown here is just off of FR 300 at the beginning of the Fred Haught Trail. Arizona Trail Passage 28 (Blue Ridge) uses the first three miles of Fred Haught Trail, from General Springs Cabin to just before the confluence of General Springs and Fred Haught Canyons, where the AZT-28 splits off to the west to head up to C.C. Cragin Reservoir. Uses: Backpacking Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.487098, -111.228639 |
| Houston Brothers Trail No. 171 | Open | For much of its length the Houston Brothers Trail wanders along the bottom of Houston Draw, a picturesque little valley through which a spring-fed perennial stream flows. The scenery here is mostly pastoral with a few photogenic rock outcrops and aspen groves to remind you that you are in Rim country. This trail served a number of purposes during a heyday that stretched over most of the first half of this century. The Houston brothers were ranchers who used it for moving livestock from one part of the range to another. The Forest Service used the trail to move fire guards into isolated forest cabins where they were on twenty-four hour duty during times of high fire danger. Evidence of both of these pages out of the trail's history is visible at a number of locations, including a cabin site which Gifford Pinchot, father of the U. S. Forest Service singled out for its peaceful beauty. Today this trail is part of the Cabin Loop trail system, which provides an opportunity for Forest visitors to relive an aspect of Forest history while they enjoy the area's natural beauty. Uses: Backpacking Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.41915, -111.2158 |
| U-Bar Trail No. 28 | Open | The U-Bar Trail leads into an area of forests, grasslands and canyons as rich in history as it is in scenery and wildlife. Before the current system of Forest Roads was installed, trails such as this one served as the equivalent of forest highways. They made it possible for Forest Service personnel, ranchers and hunters to move across the many canyons that carve this landscape into a series of rocky escarpments and grassy riparian areas. Portions of the old trail work, including piled rock berms are still visible along steeper sections of the route. Today, the U-Bar offers forest visitors the best means of access into this area of quiet canyons and ridges. The trails are excellent for hiking or horseback riding. The U-Bar Trail can provide an enjoyable day hike, if you arrange a car shuttle with a hiking friend, or you may want to take a week off and hike the whole Cabin Loop Trail System. Uses: Backpacking Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.506332, -111.194438 |
| Trail | Status | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona Trail Passage 27: Blue Ridge | Open | The Blue Ridge section of the Arizona Trail stretches across meadows, forests, and canyons from the top of the Mogollon Rim to Arizona Highway 87 near Blue Ridge Campground. The trail's route across the Mogollon Rim Ranger District begins at General Springs Cabin. This Forest Service Work Station was named after a nearby water source discovered by General George Crook. Crook was well-known for his campaigns against the Apaches in this area. Legend has it that he narrowly escaped a band of marauders here. From the old cabin, the trail winds down General Springs Canyon concurrent with the Fred Haught Trail, named after another historic resident. This leg of the Cabin Loop System leads the Arizona Trail until it reaches the trail junction where the trails separate and the Arizona trail continues to the top of Battleground Ridge. Here it offers good long distance views of the surrounding countryside before descending into East Clear Creek Canyon and crossing that small mountain stream just as it flows into Blue Ridge Reservoir. After steeply descending and then steeply ascending the creek (upstream of Blue Ridge Reservoir) the trail works its way up to FR 751. After crossing FR 751 the trail proceeds east and then north up to the drop into Blue Ridge Campground. From here the trail continues north and finally reaches Highway 87 at the junction with FR 138, the beginning of the Happy Jack Segment. Uses: Backpacking Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 34.454041, -111.250793 |
| Arizona Trail Passage 28: Happy Jack | Open | Heading north from the intersection of Highway 87 and FR 138, (Hay Meadow Trailhead) the Happy Jack passage of the Arizona Trail stretches across forests of ponderosa and pinyon pines and junipers with a drop down into Jacks Canyon for a couple miles. For opportunities to see pronghorn and elk, this passage takes you past stock ponds and springs, across rocky flats and finally works its way up to Allan Lake at Forest Highway 3. Rating : Moderate Notes/Warnings: All water along this passage should be purified prior to use. No motor vehicles Uses: Backpacking Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 34.607645, -111.199958 |
| Babe Haught Trail No. 43 | Open | This trail was built by pioneer "Babe" Haught to pack supplies over the the Mogollon Rim from Winslow. Species of wildlife found in the vicinity include deer, elk, wild turkey, squirrel and black bear. Knoll Lake provides excellent trout fishing. Dispersed camping is allowed. There is also a developed seasonal campground, Knoll Lake Campground, located on Forest Road 295E, west of the lake. Rating : Strenuous Note : Forest Road 300 is usually closed each winter during heavy snow season. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.401142, -111.134707 |
| Calloway Trail No. 33 | Open | The Calloway Trail starts at the north end of the parking area where it affords a good view into the steep-walled canyon of West Clear Creek. Some of the rock strata visible from the rim includes limestone laid when the area was covered by a shallow sea, and sandstone, the result of deposition as ocean sediment and eolian (windblown) accumulation. Notice the cross-bedding apparent in the wind-deposited sandstone. The vegetation on the north-facing slope of Douglas fir, ponderosa pine, and Gambel oak stands in contrast to the vegetation on the hotter and drier south-facing slope across the canyon. Once at the bottom of the canyon, it is possible to access areas up and down stream by wading and boulder hopping. The vegetation near the creek consists of riparian species such as cattails, locust, wild grape, willow, box elder and poison ivy. Learn to identify and avoid this three-leaved plant. The creek provides habitat for suckers, blue gill, and trout. Rating : Strenuous Notes : The trail lies within the West Clear Creek Wilderness and is closed to the use of motorized and mechanized transport (including bicycles). This trail is not suitable for horse traffic. Uses: Day Hiking | 34.556199, -111.476517 |
| Donahue Trail No. 27 | Open | This trail offers lovely panoramic views as it descends from Milk Ranch Point at the top of the Rim. It is, however, a very steep trail and requires agility due to the loose rock and angle of decline. May be closed in winter. Uses: Day Hiking | 34.389917, -111.4149 |
| General Crook Trail No. 130 | Open | This is a section of the trail which General George Crook blazed from Camp Verde to Fort Apache. Besides being of historic note, the Crook Trail follows one of the more striking geologic features in Arizona, the Mogollon Rim. This 2,000 foot escarpment, named for one of the Spanish colonial governors of New Mexico, forms the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau. The trail plays tag with the edge of this 400 mile-long cliff and the road that parallels it across the Forest. At a number of places the path crosses the road to hug the rim and offer spectacular views of the state's central mountains and desert. Four Peaks, the Sierra Anchas, and the Mazatzals stand out among the scenery. At night, the lights of Payson wink up from 2,000 feet down and 15 miles away. If you would rather not hike the entire 25 mile length of the trail, you can easily retrace just a part of the route. Nearby roads, most notably FR 300, provide easy access to all portions of the trail. Portions of this trail are part of the Cabin Loop Trail system. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.45427, -111.379949 |
| Horse Crossing Trail No. 20 | Open | This trail crosses East Clear Creek. It's a perennial stream that flows through a picturesque canyon and eventually ends up in the Little Colorado River. The trail that leads to the crossing drops down a gradual slope through an open forest of ponderosa pine and Gambel oak. East Clear Creek is small, but great for wading and splashing around. A few of the deeper pools are big enough for swimming and fishing. All of them make great reflecting pools for the rock bluffs that form the canyon walls, so bring your camera. Just above the creek you'll find the remains of an old cabin set on a rocky bench. It's hard not to imagine how enjoyable it must have been to live in such a beautiful place, with peace and quiet as big as the landscape. If that's the way you feel, you might want to give it a try, at least for a while. There are a number of backpacking campsites in the trees near the crossing. Rating: Moderate Hiking time: 1 hour Notes: No motorized vehicles Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.583715, -111.130833 |
| Kinder Crossing Trail No. 19 | Open | This trail offers a picturesque access to East Clear Creek, crossing the creek near a moderately deep section. There are excellent opportunities for fishing and sightseeing. Expect the trail to be steep and rocky in places. Some hikers limit their trek to the three-quarter mile hike to the creek. Others, however, venture across the creek for the additional three-quarter mile section. No cairns or blazes mark the extended trail which heads downstream then turns east up ridge and connects with FR 137. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on this trail. FR 95T is usually closed each winter during heavy snow season. Uses: Day Hiking | 34.570005, -111.149101 |
| Myrtle Trail No. 30 | Open | This trail extends from the edge of the Mogollon Rim on the Coconino National Forest down to the control road on the Tonto National Forest. There is no parking at the trailhead on Forest Road 300, but there are a few clearings across the road. In 1990, the Dude Fire burned through this area, eventually charring 24,000 acres. Throughout the subsequent years, one could watch the vegetation changes due to the regenerative processes. There are many species of wildlife to view in the area: deer, elk, squirrel, wild turkey and black bear. Dispersed camping is available. Knoll Lake, an excellent trout lake, is located approximately 8 miles northeast on Forest Road 295E. Forest Road 300 is usually closed each winter during heavy snow season. In 2002 a lightning-caused fire called the Pack Rat Fire burned over 3000 acres along the rim. Rating : Easy on the Coconino, most difficult on the Tonto Length : 0.3 mile on the Coconino; 0.7 mile on the Tonto Elevations : Rim: 7218'; Control Road: 6680' Uses: Day Hiking | 34.410141, -111.182128 |
| Pine Canyon Trail No. 26 | Open | Only a short portion of this trail is on the Coconino National Forest, proceeding over the edge of the Mogollon Rim, with the longest portion on the Tonto National Forest. This trail offers a scenic view of Pine, Arizona, and surrounding area. Ferns grow along the banks of Pine Creek. Trailhead sign also presents distances to other trails nearby. Length : .05 on the Coconino, 7.5 miles on the Tonto Rating : Moderate/Difficult Elevations : Beginning: 7200', ending: 5000' High/Low points: 7240'/5000' Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.451102, -111.417494 |
| Rim Road/General Crook Trail Loop | Open | One of the most striking geologic features in Arizona is the Mogollon Rim. This steep escarpment, measured in thousands of feet and hundreds of miles, begins just across the border in New Mexico and stretches diagonally two thirds of the way across Arizona. As such, it forms the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau and stands as one of the most impressive overlooks in the Grand Canyon State. That precipitous drop-off is the star of this scenic drive, part of which traces the rim's edge across the Coconino. In so doing, it follows another feature of interest, the General Crook Trail. When you're not on the rim, you'll still find much to see along this drive, as it winds through a forest well populated with wildlife and gives you a taste of canyon country in scenic East Clear Creek and Barbershop canyons. Road Condition : FH 3 and AZ 87 are paved. All forest roads are graveled and suitable for passenger vehicles. Forest roads are closed in winter. Driving Time : 4 hours (154 miles) from Flagstaff, 2 hours (54 miles) from Clints Well. Uses: Scenic Driving, Nature Viewing, Viewing Scenery | , |
| Rock Crossing Trail No. 18 | Open | This trail is separated into three segments separated by two reservoir crossings. Trail 18A is a one-half mile segment that parallels FR 751 and gradually descends to the edge of the water. Trail 18B is a 1.2 mile segment from the south edge of the upper arm of the reservoir to the north edge of the lower arm of the reservoir. A clearing for dispersed camping is at the south shore. Trail 18C is a one-half mile segment from the south edge of the lower arm of the reservoir to FR 139A. The uppermost segment of the trail is the most frequently used portion. (FR 751 is usually closed each winter during heavy snow season.) Length :
Rating: Moderate Elevations: Beginning: 7149, Ending: 6900. High/Low Points: 7149/6700 feet. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.55397, -111.20607 |
| Soldier Trail No. 21 | Open | The Soldier Trail provides access into the bottom of East Clear Creek. Once in the bottom of the creek the trail turns west for about three-quarters of a mile before ascending the west canyon wall of the creek. The trail is very difficult to hike and may not be passable during high water. The section of the trail along the creek is not well marked. The area is quite scenic and offers excellent photographic opportunities. In addition, sometimes outstanding trout fishing opportunities are available in East Clear Creek. Elevation: 6,540 to 6,100 Rating: Moderate to Difficult Notes: No motor vehicles are permitted. The road to the trailhead is marked with a new sign. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.644117, -111.006124 |
| Turkey Springs Trail No. 217 | Open | This is a beautiful canyon walk with great rim views. A large balanced rock along trailside always gets attention. This trail connects with West Webber Trail (Tonto National Forest) for a loop hike. Rating: Difficult Length: 0.6 miles on the Coconino; 2 miles on the Tonto Elevations: Beginning: 7,218 feet. Ending: 6,980 feet. Note: Forest Road 300 is usually closed each winter during heavy snow season. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.424706, -111.40112 |
| Victorine Trail No. 101 | Open | The Victorine Trail #101 is used for access to Leonard Canyon. It continues into the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. This will have seasonal road closures due to snow, etc. It is a nice trail once you find it. Due to timber sales, thinning and burning, the trail head is sometimes hard to find. Signs, carsonites and cairns just don't seem to stay up. Elevation at trailhead: 6,980 feet (elevation gain 300 feet) Rating: Difficult Notes: No motor vehicles are permitted. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.608126, -111.059797 |
| Willow Crossing Trail No. 38 | Open | The trail starts at the end of FR 122A northeast of the West Clear Creek Wilderness in a parklike setting of mature ponderosa pine. The trail heads northwest following the west side of a small drainage before descending into Willow Valley. Vegetation found along this stretch of trail includes ponderosa pine, locust, and Gambel oak. Once in the drainage of Willow Valley, the vegetation consists of more riparian species, including poison ivy. Learn to identify this three-leaved plant. Other riparian plants in the drainage include wild grape and willow. The rugged canyon of Willow Valley provides the required habitat for many species of wildlife, including the reclusive black bear. Look for signs of black bear activity such as torn-apart logs and overturned rocks. The trail climbs gradually out of the canyon through an area of ponderosa pine and follows along the south side of a fence line to the trailhead on FR 9366M. Watch for the rock cairns that mark the trail through this stretch. Rating: Easy Notes: High clearance vehicles are recommended and the road may not be passable during wet weather. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.621843, -111.398129 |
Red Rock Ranger District
For current conditions, call Fossil Creek Hotline 928-226-4611
April 1 - Oct. 1: Parking permit required, no camping allowed.
Oct. 2 - March 31: No parking permit required, some camping allowed.
Never allowed: Campfires and glass containers are never allowed in the area.
| Trail | Status | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bob Bear (formerly Fossil Springs) Trail-No. 18 | Open | There is no water along the first four miles of this strenuous trail which descends into a 1600' deep canyon. It is important that visitors know that the Bob Bear Trail parking lot DOES NOT provide direct access to Fossil Creek's water. Additionally, loose rock and a steep ascent make the return climb challenging. During summertime, the hike out can be brutally hot. The trail ends at the historic old dam. Do NOT attempt this trail without sturdy footwear (flip flops have proved disastrous for hikers), sunscreen and enough food and water to last the whole day. Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking | 34.406742, -111.568443 |
| Dixon Lewis Trail on Fossil Creek | Open | Dixon Lewis, formerly known as "Waterfall" Trail is the most popular area at Fossil Creek. The one-mile trail follows the creek to a natural waterfall, where crowds spend the day swimming. This rewarding hike showcases the beauty Fossil Creek has to offer. However, swimming and cliff diving near the waterfall is extremely dangerous, and has led to several drowning deaths and severe injuries. Fossil Creek offers miles of gorgeous water features and secluded, crystal clear swimming holes. This trailhead, creek and waterfall can NOT be accessed from Strawberry, Ariz. Uses: Day Hiking | 34.40501, -111.61398 |
| Flume Trail No. 154 to Fossil Creek Dam | Open | The Flume Trail starts at the old Irving power plant location and follows the line of the removed-flume that used to carried the water to the power plants for generating electricity. The trail ends at the old dam, a 5-mile trek one way. The trailhead is located on Fossil Creek Road (FR 708) north-east of the Fossil Creek Bridge at the Irving/Flume Trail parking lot. There is a shallow but swift water (knee deep) creek crossing at the trailhead. There is no creek access after the trailhead until you reach Fossil Creek Dam. To hike this trail use sturdy footwear, sun protection and more than enough water and food for the whole day! Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.403209, -111.617338 |
| Mail Trail No. 84 | Open | The Mail Trail was first traveled by Yavapai-Apaches who later guided pony soldiers on it from Fort Reno to Fort Verde in as early as 1869. The trail was dedicated on Sept. 9, 2006 after volunteers and forest service employees mapped the trail and build rock cairns and placed kiosks at trailheads. This is a long, hot, dry, and strenuous trail. Ten miles long, the trail drops 1600 feet from Hwy 260 into the normally dry Fossil Creek a mile above the springs. It meets up with the Bob Bear Trail (formerly Fossil Springs) #18 up-canyon from the springs. Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.487528, -111.597083 |
| Trail | Status | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bell Rock Pathway / Vista | Open | The Bell Rock Pathway is a 3.6-mile trail. Along this pathway you'll enjoy fantastic views of Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte, and other landmarks. Most of the pathway has a wide, hard surface, but there are some steep hills too. Some places around Bell Rock are rocky and rough. There is a popular observation area on the west side of Bell Rock not accessible from the highway. Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, Nature Viewing, Viewing Scenery | 34.791515, -111.76185 |
| Courthouse Butte Loop Trail | Open | There are two access points to this wonderful trail: From the south: Take the wide Bell Rock Pathway from the kiosk toward Bell Rock. It climbs gently and at ½ mile there is a signed intersection with the Courthouse Butte Loop Trail. Continue ahead on the wide trail (this description is for taking the loop clockwise). The trail continues a gentle climb circling to the west of Bell Rock. It levels out and curves to the north below the slopes of Bell Rock. From the north: Walk southeast on the trail directly towards Bell Rock. At 1/4 mile the Trail intersects Bell Rock Pathway to you may then choose to circle Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte clockwise (turn east) or counterclockwise (turn west). If circling clockwise, after turning east, follow the large cairns to the point where the wide Pathway turns north (left) and a sign shows the Courthouse Butte Loop Trail branching to the east. Go east. This narrower trail passes to the north of Courthouse Butte heading toward Lee Mountain. The next intersection is the Llama Trail, popular with mountain bikers, from the north. Continuing east, the trail passes to the right of a prominent dome-shaped outcrop, and then gradually descends, entering the Wilderness area. It enters a dry wash, circles to the south over bare rock and climbs out onto level ground as it leaves the Wilderness area and continues to circle Courthouse Butte. Approaching Bell Rock, the trail meets the pathway once again. To return to the Bell Rock Vista and Pathway trailhead, go south, retracing the entry route for 1/2 mile to return to the kiosk. If returning to the Courthouse Vista Trailhead, continue clockwise around Bell Rock to the intersection of the parking area trail intersecting from the northwest. The loop is mostly un-shaded and can be hot in summer. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.79103, -111.76279 |
| Hot Loop Trail No. 40 | Open | Two things are hot about this trail. That's the way you'll feel when you complete the climb to the top of Horse Mesa and that's the way you'll describe the views when you get there. There's actually two ways to approach the Hot Loop, one is from a trailhead in Jacks Canyon near the Pine Flat Subdivision. The other is a trailhead in Woods Canyon off SR 179. From the Jacks Canyon Trailhead (which has the best parking lot) a connector trail leads up and over a low saddle to join the Hot Loop just as it begins the steepest part of its 1,000 foot climb to the top of Horse Mesa. From the Woods Canyon Trailhead, you can access this trail near the Red Rock Ranger District Visitor Center on SR 179. At 1.25 miles, a trail sign marks the junction where Hot Loop branches off from Woods Canyon Trail, which continues up Woods Canyon. Once the Hot Loop trail reaches the top of Horse Mesa it meanders across the broad, flat plain to a panoramic overlook of the eastern limits of the Sedona red rocks (4 miles from the trailhead). From here you can see a number of landmarks including Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte, and west to Sycamore Pass. The trail continues across the mesa top to equally impressive views of Woods Canyon. The trail ascends to the top of Jacks Point and across the rim and eventually ties into the Jacks Canyon Trail. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.78509, -111.732758 |
| Jacks Canyon Trail No. 55 | Open | You'll want to hike this trail all the way to the end and then some to gain access to the unique views it offers. Jacks Canyon Trail leads up the bottom of a rocky desert gorge where the vegetation is mostly high chaparral. Watch for desert cottontails and black-tailed jackrabbits scurrying through the thorny underbrush. Most likely you'll see some top-knotted Gambels quail, too, and hear them crowing from their hiding places as you pass by. Extensive stands of Arizona cypress carpet the canyon floor along with catclaw acacia, false palo verde, and banana yucca. The trail starts by skirting the boundary of an outlying subdivision, passing through the effects of the 2006, 800 acre La Barranca fire. It then follows an old jeep trail to Jacks Canyon Tank where it drops into the drainage bottom and proceeds along its moderate climb by crisscrossing the dry streambed. At the upper end of the canyon, the trail leaves the streambed to switchback to a high saddle connecting the Mogollon Rim and Munds Mountain. The views are good here, but they're even better a short, steep climb up the Munds Mountain Trail. From the top of Munds Mountain the panorama of the Red Rocks Country is as complete as it gets, including parts of Oak Creek Canyon, all of the major rock formations around Sedona and even the San Francisco Peaks in the distance. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.785091, -111.732759 |
| Margs Draw Trail No. 163 | Open | This scenic trail can be hiked from the Broken Arrow Trailhead, from the Sombart Lane Trailhead, or from Schnebly Hill. From Broken Arrow, it begins by crossing the wash just north of the parking area and enters Wilderness. Shade is soon left behind and nice red rock views open up as the trail winds its way north across a nearly flat expanse dotted with juniper, pinyon pine and Arizona cypress. The trail crosses the draw by a scenic dry waterfall at the 0.75 mile point. Nearing one mile, a half-mile long spur trail comes in on the left from the trail access at the end of Sombart Lane. Continue ahead. Soon, Uptown Sedona, Capitol Butte, Wilson Mountain and Steamboat Rock come into view. At 1.25 miles, the trail curves around the base of Camel Head and there is a good view of that formation and of Snoopy Rock above and to the right. The trail leaves Wilderness, crosses Schnebly Hill Road, and goes east about 0.8 mile before ending at a large parking turnout. Return by the same route or hike one way with arranged transportation. The hike can be extended to the north using Huckaby Trail and to the south using Broken Arrow Trail. Rating: Easy Hiking Time: Allow 2 hours roundtrip Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.845551, -111.75686 |
| Munds Mountain Trail No. 77 | Open | The Munds Mountain Trail is reached using the Schnebly Hill Trail . The Schnebly Hill Trail climbs moderately and steadily up the west face of Schnebly Hill following the original alignment of Schnebly Hill Road. There are some magnificent red rock views for the first 0.75 miles which is unshaded. The trail enters partial shade and at 1.25 miles, where the roadbed turns sharply to the left, take the trail on the right which is signed "Munds, Jacks, Hot Loop". It climbs moderately in shade for nearly 0.75 mile, passing through two cattle gates, and emerging on a large, open expanse near Committee Tank. There are several overlooks offering great views of Munds Mountain, Bear Wallow Canyon, and the red rock formations beyond. The trail is level for the next quarter mile and then descends to a saddle separating Schnebly Hill and Munds Mountain at the head of Jacks Canyon. More nice views. Just before reaching the saddle, there is a signed trailhead on the left for Hot Loop Trail. Continue down another 150 yards where there are two more signed trailheads. The Jacks Canyon Trail leads down to the left. The Munds Mountain Trail begins here and continues ahead, beginning a steep, switchback ascent, climbing 500 feet in a little over a half-mile. There are fine views over Jacks Canyon and the rim country all the way to the San Francisco Peaks near Flagstaff. The trail flattens out as it emerges on the broad, open, flat expanse of the mountain top. The trail continues on, but it is never close to the edge and views are limited, so this is a good place to turn around. Return by the same route. Uses: Day Hiking | 34.882137, -111.71107 |
| Schnebly Hill Trail No. 158 | Open | The Schnebly Hill Trail climbs moderately and steadily up the west face of Schnebly Hill following the original alignment of Schnebly Hill Road. There are some magnificent red rock views for the first 0.75 miles which is unshaded. The trail enters partial shade and at 1.25 miles, where the roadbed turns sharply to the left, take the trail on the right which is signed "Munds, Jacks, Hot Loop". It climbs moderately in shade for nearly 0.75 mile, passing through 2 cattle gates, and emerging on a large, open expanse near Committee Tank. There are several overlooks offering great views of Munds Mountain, Bear Wallow Canyon and the red rock formations beyond. The trail is level for the next quarter mile and then descends to a saddle separating Schnebly Hill and Munds Mountain at the head of Jacks Canyon. More nice views. Just before reaching the saddle, there is a signed trailhead on the left for Hot Loop. Continue down another 150 yards where there are two more signed trailheads. The Jacks Canyon Trail leads down to the left. Schnebly Hill Trail ends at a junction with Munds Mountain Trail #77, Jacks Canyon Trail #55, and Hot Loop Trail #95, providing opportunities to extend your adventure in Munds Mountain Wilderness. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.882138, -111.711071 |
| Woods Canyon Trail No. 93 | Open | The trail begins at the signed trailhead near the Red Rock Visitor Center and District Ranger Station. It is level and unshaded as it follows a jeep road into the wide canyon mouth for 1.25 miles. The road ends and the trail continues, climbing gradually. There are views of the vegetation-covered slopes of mesas on either side. At 2 miles, the trail crosses a small, usually dry streambed with red rock pools, climbs out, passes through a cattle gate, and comes to a signed fork. Hot Loop Trail heads left to the top of Horse Mesa. Take the right fork to continue on Woods Canyon Trail into the canyon. The Woods Canyon Trail enters Munds Mountain Wilderness and continues its easy climb, passing some red rock formations on the left. It enters the occasional shade of pine and sycamore as it approaches and then follows Dry Beaver Creek. At 3.5 miles, the trail emerges on a picturesque expanse of red rock at the edge of the normally dry creek bed which is studded with huge, gray boulders. Continue on for another 3/4 mile for some nice red rock views as the trail climbs on a moderate grade out of the creek bed. This is a good place to turn around although a path continues further into the canyon. Return by the same route. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.75619, -111.763405 |
| Trail | Status | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| A. B. Young Trail No. 100 | Open | The A.B.Young Trail leaves from the southernmost end of the Bootlegger Picnic Area. Take steps down to the creek, find a suitable place to "boulder hop" or wade the stream, cross the creek and find an old metal sign indicating the trailhead. It immediately begins a moderately steep ascent and enters wilderness area. The shade of the creek area is quickly lost and nice views of the canyon and some interesting rock formations open up. The trail climbs 1600 feet in 1.6 miles over the 33 switchbacks to the rim of Oak Creek Canyon. At this point, the trail enters the shade of ponderosa pine and heads west for 0.8 miles on a gradual ascent (this portion of the trail not well marked), ending at the East Pocket Fire Lookout Tower. The trail is believed to have been built originally by C.S. (Bear) Howard in the 1880's and it was reconstructed in the 1930's by the Civilian Conservation Corp and supervised by A.B. Young. Uses: Day Hiking | 34.969612, -111.750824 |
| Allens Bend Trail No. 111 | Open | The trail begins on the south-east side of the recreation area parking lot at Grasshopper Point. The trailhead sign is at the kiosk near the covered picnic table. The trail is near level and mostly in full shade from remnants of an old orchard and various native riparian trees. It follows along the foot of a rock wall on the left, a short distance from Oak Creek which can be heard but is seldom in sight. Several short paths provide access to this scenic creek for fishing, swimming, and picnicking. Be careful of poison ivy. The trail ends at the Casner Canyon Trailhead. Return by the same route for a pleasant 1 mile hike. The trail is probably named for Charles R. Allen, a photographer who homesteaded at the location of the present Junipine Cabins further upstream. Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | 34.887709, -111.731579 |
| Casner Canyon Trail No. 11 | Open | Bring your wading shoes for this one. You'll be wading clear, cool Oak Creek early in the hike. According to historians, this trail was built to provide cattle grazers a means of getting their stock from water on the canyon floor to pastures on the canyon rim. Today, it is used by hikers and horseback riders for access into the heart of a landscape most people see only through their telephoto lens. After crossing Oak Creek, the trail leads a short way up the floor of Casner Canyon before turning up the canyon's north slope. It then continues a long and sometimes steep climb to the canyon rim about a half-mile north of the Schnebly Hill Road overlook. The route it follows is a scenic one, right through the middle of some of the rock formations that make up the spectacular view from Sedona and Highway 89A. Because shade is sparse, this can be a hard, hot climb on a sunny day. Bring lots of water along with your camera. Uses: Day Hiking | 34.893297, -111.733234 |
| Cookstove Trail No. 143 | Open | Originally built to provide access for forest firefighters to Oak Creek Canyon's wooded slopes, Cookstove Trail now offers nature lovers a scenic route to the canyon rim. The trail starts from the north end of Pine Flat Campground and immediately begins switchbacking up the steep slope of the canyon's east wall. It climbs through an area forested with stands of mixed conifers, Gambel oaks and both Utah and alligator junipers. The trees part at a number of points along the trail offering good views of the buff- colored cliffs of Coconino sandstone and the remnants of an old volcano across Oak Creek. There are also some good views of the Route 89A switchbacks that lead into the canyon. At the top of the climb, an outcrop of volcanic basalt provides a lunch stop where you can enjoy the view before heading back down the trail or continuing south along the canyon rim to the Harding Springs Trail for an alternate descent back to the highway. Uses: Day Hiking | 35.014548, -111.737688 |
| Harding Springs Trail No. 51 | Open | This trail originally was one of several that provided a way for cattlemen to drive their stock in and out of Oak Creek Canyon. For today's hiker, that means it's wider than most Oak Creek Canyon trails and not as steep as some. So, if you're looking for a gradual climb to the canyon rim, complete with rest stops along the way where you can enjoy the view both up and down canyon, you've found it. All of Harding Springs Trail is in the shade of a mixed conifer forest characteristic of central Arizona canyons. That adds another to this trail's already impressive list of pluses by keeping it reasonably cool in summer. And when you top the rim, you have the option of continuing either north to Cookstove Trail or south to Thomas Point Trail to complete a loop hike. Then again, you may want to go back by the same friendly route that brought you here. Uses: Day Hiking | 35.000567, -111.737546 |
| North Wilson Trail No. 123 | Open | The North Wilson Trail is a cooler route to the Wilson Mountain Trail. It starts just north of Encinoso Picnic Area, three miles up canyon from Midgley Bridge. The two trails join at a point midway up the mountain. At the top you'll be rewarded with views that stretch over hundreds of square miles of scenic canyon country and include Oak Creek Canyon, Sedona, Coffee Pot Rock, Capitol Butte, Sterling Canyon and the Verde Valley. Uses: Day Hiking | 34.9258, -111.7353 |
| Purtyman Trail | Open | The historic Purtyman Trail is 1.25 miles long. It begins at SR 89a south of the Bootlegger Picnic Area, across from Junipine, and heads east. This trail is extremely steep, strenuous, and rough. It was built by the Purtymun family in the late 1800's as an access route from Oak Creek Canyon to Flagstaff. Uses: Day Hiking | 34.964631, -111.752456 |
| Sterling Pass Trail No. 46 | Open | Named for a local settler, Sterling Pass Trail leads over a high saddle from Oak Creek Canyon into nearby and equally scenic Sterling Canyon in the Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness. The climb is steep right from the trailhead. The trail climbs up an unnamed drainage through a mixed conifer forest dominated by huge orange-barked ponderosa pines. Dwarf canyon maples are plentiful here too. They turn scarlet and peach in the fall, making this a great place to enjoy the most colorful of seasons. As you ascend the steep slope you'll notice that, above the mosaic of tree limbs that form the forest ceiling, huge monoliths of deep red and buff sandstone tower toward the sky. You'll be rubbing shoulders with these giants as you slide between them at the top of the pass and begin the descent into Sterling Canyon. The best overlooks are along the climb, so be sure to take a break every now and then to enjoy them. The view from the top is somewhat obscured by trees. In the bottom of Sterling Canyon, Sterling Pass Trail meets up with Vultee Arch Trail. Continue to the right for 100 yards to a large rock outcrop that offers excellent views of Vultee Arch and surrounding canyon. Uses: Day Hiking | 34.936617, -111.747127 |
| Telephone Trail No. 72 | Open | A short but steep climb with some difficult stretches to the east rim of Oak Creek Canyon. The trail begins as a level path heading north, then crosses a shallow drainage and begins a moderately steep, zig-zag ascent beneath a telephone line in partial shade. After climbing 550 feet in less than 0.5 miles, it bends to the east and levels out on the top of a finger ridge that runs from the east rim of the canyon. At 0.6 miles, the trail passes beside a picturesque reef of rock with several "windows." Soon, the trail resumes its steep climb on a narrow ridge. There are nice views over the West Fork area of the canyon to the west, and of a deep chasm to the east. the trail levels off briefly at 0.8 miles, then begins a steep climb in the full shade of a mixed conifer and oak forest to the top of the east rim. This portion of the trail follows an old telephone line with only some post stubs remaining. The trail is difficult to follow in places but there are some cairns. The trail ends at a large rock cairn at 1.2 miles. Here, at the rim's edge, there are views through the trees of the cliffs to the north. Return by the same route. This hike is suitable in summer, but do not attempt in winter if there is any snow on the slopes. Uses: Day Hiking | 34.990087, -111.737315 |
| Thomas Point Trail No. 142 | Open | This is the southernmost of three trails that climb to the east rim of Oak Creek Canyon. Of the three, it offers the broadest and most varied views. However, it is also the hottest and longest. The Thomas Point Trail starts in a mixed conifer forest characteristic of Arizona canyons but quickly breaks out into more open chapparal. Above this point, vistas are broad and impressive with good views both down canyon, toward Sedona and the crimson bluffs near Slide Rock, and cross canyon to the steep cliffs of one of Oak Creek's largest tributaries, West Fork Canyon. If you chose to continue all the way to the top, the trail winds through the manzanita and scrub oak to the canyon rim where you'll be rewarded with a nice view of the San Francisco Peaks near Flagstaff, about thirty miles away. Uses: Day Hiking | 34.988692, -111.744166 |
| West Fork of Oak Creek No. 108 | Open | There are a number of reasons why West Fork is one of the most popular trails on the Coconino National Forest. Once you've strolled beside the pleasant little stream that ripples along the canyon floor and looked up, way up, at the dizzying cliffs that tower above it, you will fall in love with it, too. West Fork is fantastic throughout the year. In springtime, migrating songbirds decorate the trees with flashes of brilliance. In autumn, the canyon is ablaze with color, with red and gold leaves floating in clear reflecting pools under a canopy of solid color. In wintertime, icicles decorate from red rock overhangs, and snatches of snow persist in cool shadows. As a matter of fact, you'll probably find a new reason to be here every time you visit. As for the trail itself, it's an easy stroll, but you do have to cross the stream in a number of places. Usually, that involves negotiating a few strategically placed stepping stones or taking a couple of steps in shallow water. The trail is marked and maintained for the first three miles. Many hikers explore beyond the end of the maintained trail. Eventually the pathway ends, the route becomes more strenuous, and you will be forced to hike in the stream bed as you continue into the Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness. If you choose to travel the entire 14 mile stretch from one end of the canyon to the other, plan to do a lot of wading and boulder hopping, and even some swimming. Please understand the strenuous 14 mile long full canyon route between SR 89A to FR 231 (Woody Mountain Road) before attempting this rugged wilderness route. No matter how long a hike you take here, you'll enjoy it best if you come at a time when the trail is least crowded. Mornings and weekdays are best, better yet if they're in the off-season. When you do come, remember to take special care and leave this beautiful place better than you found it. Of course you know not to litter, but picking flowers and autumn leaves can cause just as unsightly a scar. So can short-cutting or rock throwing. Treat this natural treasure with the care it deserves and you'll have plenty of reason to come back and see it again and again. Uses: Day Hiking | 34.99056, -111.743195 |
| Wilson Canyon Trail No. 49 | Open | This trail begins at the picnic ramada just up the old roadway from the Midgley Bridge parking area. At 0.1 miles, bear right onto the trail marked by large rock cairns. It gradually climbs, then descends to the normally dry canyon drainage. At 0.6 miles, past the fork to the right signed for the Wilson Mountain Trail and then the fork to the left signed for the Jim Thompson Trail. Continue ahead, entering the Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness in the partial shade of live shrub oak and small Arizona cypress. Views are now limited to the tops of the canyon walls and the upper portion of Wilson Mountain ahead. Nearing 1.5 miles, the trail enters the drainage and proceeds over red rock with an occasional rock scramble in the shade of large Arizona cypress. At 1.5 miles, there is a red rock outcrop on the right. A side path climbs this and continues a short way, ascending about 100 feet to a saddle offering excellent views. This is a good place to turn around and return by the same route for a 3 mile roundtrip hike. Uses: Day Hiking | 34.88739, -111.742117 |
| Wilson Mountain Trail No. 10 | Open | This hike heads straight for some of the most panoramic views in the Oak Creek Canyon/Sedona area. Plan a full day for it and start early -- the climb up Wilson Mountain is a strenuous one. The majority of the 2300 foot climb is packed into the first mile or so of the hike. You'll have more reasons than just exertion to stop and take a breather along this route, however. The views start as soon as you leave the car and they just keep getting better. There is shade along parts of this trail but enough of it is out in the open to make it hot work under a summer sun. An alternate, cooler route is provided by North Wilson Trail which starts just north of Encinoso Picnic Area, 3 miles up canyon from Midgley Bridge. The two trails join at a point midway up the mountain. At the top you'll be rewarded with views that stretch over hundreds of square miles of scenic canyon country and include Oak Creek Canyon, Sedona, Coffee Pot Rock, Capitol Butte, Sterling Canyon and the Verde Valley. Uses: Day Hiking | 34.886629, -111.741935 |
| Trail | Status | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apache Maid Trail No. 15 | Open | The Apache Maid Trail branches off of the Bell Trail after 2.5 miles and ascends the northern canyon wall of the Wet Beaver Wilderness through a series of switchbacks. The rest of the trail then levels out across one of the plateaus of the Mogollon Rim. Hikers will find picturesque views of Wet Beaver Creek Canyon and hillsides of prickly pear cacti. Once atop the basalt plateau, the Apache Maid Trail winds along primitive jeep tracks across the grassy, juniper flats. From the trail, the canyon appears off to your right as an eroded rift in the ancient lava flow. Some choose to hike just a part of this trail, enjoying overlooks of the canyon and a panorama that includes Casner Butte and the San Francisco Peaks. Others arrange a car-shuttle and continue all the way to trail's end near the lookout tower on Apache Maid Mountain. Wilderness areas are rare, wild places set aside by Congress where the land is allowed to retain its natural state, serving as a natural haven for humans to escape modern civilization and for nature to be itself. To help minimize human impacts in wilderness and maintain its character, several laws and regulations have been put in place and we ask that visitors practice "Leave No Trace ethics." In order to protect this fragile desert riparian area, campfires and camping are prohibited along much of the Wet Beaver Creek to help minimize damage to soil and vegetation, reduce disturbances to wildlife, and prevent pollution of the creek. Wet Beaver Creek flows into the Verde River, a critical water source for many cities and communities in Arizona. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.674694, -111.713403 |
| Bell Trail No. 13 | Open | Do not attempt this trail in the summer without being prepared! Bring the necessary footwear, plenty of water and food. Bell Trail is the primary trail used to access Wet Beaver Creek Canyon and the Wet Beaver Wilderness (2.7 miles from the trailhead). Starting from the trailhead, the trail follows the contours of the canyon from a bench well above the streambed. What starts as a hike through the canyon bottom surrounded by junipers and mesquite trees slowly becomes an escarpment of red sandstone and scenic views of the riparian area, the canyon, and the surrounding mountains and valleys. After crossing Wet Beaver Creek, 3.5 miles from the trailhead, the trail begins ascending the canyon's southern wall to a high, grassy plateau where it winds through pinyon juniper stands and open grasslands, offering views that stretch past the Sedona Red Rocks Country and to the San Francisco Peaks. At 7.7 miles long one-way, it traverses a long stretch of the wilderness before exiting and connecting with Forest Service Road 214. Those interested in a more challenging hike can go the entire length, but those who prefer a shorter hike have options as well. Diverging from Bell Trail are White Mesa (1.7 miles from trailhead), Apache Maid (2.2 mi), and Weir (2.5 mi) trails, all offering alternative opportunities for recreation. Many hikers and anglers take advantage of the creek that runs parallel to Bell Trail for several miles. Swimming holes are popular destinations during the summertime. Wilderness areas are rare, wild places set aside by Congress where the land is allowed to retain its natural state, serving as a natural haven for humans to escape modern civilization and for nature to be itself. To help minimize human impacts in wilderness, motorized and mechanized equipment are prohibited by law, including bicycles, strollers, carts, and remote control aircraft, and drones. We also ask that visitors practice Leave No Trace ethics. In order to protect this fragile desert riparian area, campfires and camping are prohibited along much of the Wet Beaver Creek to help minimize damage to soil and vegetation, reduce disturbances to wildlife, and prevent pollution of the creek. Wet Beaver Creek flows into the Verde River, a critical water source for many cities and communities in Arizona. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.6739, -111.71388 |
| Trail | Status | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dogie Trail No. 116 | Open | Notes: Pets must be on-leash. Do not disturb cultural and archeology sites (Antiquities Act - 1906). No motorized vehicles on trail (Wilderness Act-1964). No motorized equipment or mechanized vehicles.(bicycles, strollers, etc.) in the Wild The Dogie Trail offers hikers and horseback riders a chance to experience the scenic views of the famous red rocks surrounding Sedona without all of the visiting crowds. The trail snakes into the heart of the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness connecting to the Taylor Cabin Trail after approximately 5.5 miles. The trail begins at the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness boundary, at a saddle several hundred yards from where you should park your vehicle. Expect panoramic views as the trail descends from the saddle and follows hilly contours, with each turn offering a slightly new host of plants and terrain. The trail frequently drops into washes only to climb back up the other side, so expect moderate and consistent ups and downs. Be prepared for a rugged, moderate-to-strenuous hike with unreliable sources of water and few spots for shade. Make sure you take lots of water for this hike especially during late spring to early fall months. Temperatures quite often exceed 110 degrees in the canyon bottom. Wilderness Areas are rare, wild places set aside by Congress where the land is allowed to retain its natural state, serving as a natural haven for humans to escape modern civilization and for nature to be itself. To help minimize human impacts in wilderness, motorized and mechanized equipment are prohibited by law, including bicycles, strollers, carts, remote control aircraft and drones. This trail is part of the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Southeast Trails. The lower, southern part of Sycamore Canyon Wilderness is managed by the Red Rock Ranger District. Uses: Backpacking Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.927315, -111.995038 |
| Parsons Trail No. 144 | Open | Notes: Camping/campfires within the first 3 miles of the trail is prohibited. Pets must be on-leash. Do not disturb cultural/archeology sites (Antiquities Act 1906). No motorized vehicles in the wilderness. The hike up the Parsons Trail is a pleasant stroll along a cool, clear desert stream set in a magnificent red rock canyon. The trail leads through the lower reaches of this wilderness through a riparian area rich in plant and animal life. Songbirds flit through the tall cottonwoods and thick mesquite bosques. At a number of points additional springs flow from the canyon walls through gardens of columbine and watercress. Colorful cliffs that are a unique mix of dark columnar basalt, red sandstone, and buff colored limestone enclose the lush green of the oasis. The trail leads 4 miles to a large pool called Parson Springs where it surfaces from the underground course it has followed through the majority of the canyon. Up the canyon from the spring, water flow only occurs during snowmelt and after summer monsoons. The steepest part of the trail is the descent from the trailhead, dropping several hundred feet to the canyon bottom. The rest of the trail is relatively easy in regards to slope. Prepare for multiple creek crossings on this trail, ranging from shoe-wetting to impassable depending on time of year, weather, and water flow. While refreshing in the summer and a welcomed challenge for those seeking a true wilderness experience, these crossings can be dangerous and flooding can be rapid and unexpected during rainy periods. Wilderness areas are rare, wild places set aside by Congress where the land is allowed to retain its natural state, serving as a natural haven for humans to escape modern civilization and for nature to be itself. To help minimize human impacts in wilderness, motorized and mechanized equipment are prohibited by law, including bicycles, strollers, carts, and remote-control aircraft, and drones. We also ask that visitors practice Leave No Trace ethics. This trail is part of the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Southeast Trails. The lower, southern part of Sycamore Canyon Wilderness is managed by the Red Rock Ranger District. Uses: Backpacking Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.864085, -112.069724 |
| Taylor Cabin Trail No. 35 | Open | During the winter, roads leading into the area are closed to vehicles. Just getting to this Sycamore Canyon Wilderness trail is an adventure. This is one of the Forest's most remote and difficult to access trails. The last mile of primitive road that leads to the trailhead is a place of tire bruising rocks and bottom scraping ruts. Actually, it might be a good idea to hike or mountain bike it, so you don't abuse your vehicle driving it. Don't try it at all without a sturdy, high clearance vehicle. There is a Forest Service/APS gate about 300 yards from the trailhead sign. Once you get to the trailhead you'll forget all about that rocky ride. The view is magnificent! You can see into Mooney Canyon, part of the lower Oak Creek basin, and Sycamore Canyon at the same time. In Sycamore, sheer walls, towering buttes, teetering pinnacles, and huge lava flows stretch to the horizon. Taylor Cabin Trail provides good views of all this, then drops into a sheltered drainage it follows to the canyon floor. The steepest part of the climb is mercifully shaded by Douglas firs and ponderosa pines. At trail's end, on the floor of Sycamore Canyon, you'll find everything associated with a desert river except the river itself. Rounded boulders and gnarled sycamore trees attest to the fact that water flows here regularly, but unless you come during the snowmelt or after a thunderstorm, you won't see it. Some of the larger pools hold water into late spring, but eventually they all dry up. Taylor Cabin, a historic old rancher's shack listed in the National Register of Historic Places, is about a mile and half downstream. You can either boulder hop down the stream bed to it or follow the Sycamore Basin Trail. That trail is directly across the main stream bed from the end of the path you have just walked down. Following the trail is the best way of finding the cabin, otherwise you could boulder hop right past it. This trail is part of the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Southeast Trails. The lower, southern part of Sycamore Canyon Wilderness is managed by the Red Rock Ranger District. Uses: Backpacking Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.98606, -111.94613 |
The West Clear Creek Wilderness, established in 1984, is a narrow but lengthy wilderness that follows the contours of West Clear Creek from its western terminus at Bull Pen Ranch to the headwaters of Willow Creek and Clover Creek to the north and east. The persistent strength of these waters have cut at the walls of the Mogollon Rim of the Colorado Plateau, creating the deep, narrow, rugged and spectacular canyon we see today. Due to the stark variance in elevation and sunlight across canyon walls, the West Clear Creek Wilderness offers a wide range of vegetation, geology, recreational opportunities, and supports a variety of wildlife.
Visitors should note that when traversing the canyon, stream crossings are unavoidable. The West Clear Creek Trail (the longest and most-used trail within the wilderness) has four crossings that range from knee-height to impassable depending on time of year, weather, and flooding. Those looking to follow the creek beyond the maintain trail should prepare for more than a dozen pools, which sits between both canyon wall sides and can be up to a quarter mile long, requiring wading or swimming.
Naturally, a place this remote and inaccessible provides superior opportunities for solitude and primitive recreation. For most of its length the stream is a valuable fishing resource and is stocked with trout by the Arizona Game and Fish Department. Trails leading into the canyon from the rim attract hardy adventurers seeking good fishing and secluded swimming holes. Trails that lead up from the canyon mouth get a lot of use by weekend anglers, picnickers, day hikers, and backpackers who use the primitive trailhead at the old Bull Pen Ranch.
The western portion of West Clear Creek is managed by the Red Rock Ranger District. The eastern portion is managed by the Mogollon Rim Ranger District. The District boundary runs north-south through the Home Take Draw area.
Wilderness areas are rare, wild places set aside by Congress where the land is allowed to retain its natural state, serving as a natural haven for humans to escape modern civilization and for nature to be itself. To help minimize human impacts in wilderness and maintain its character, several laws and regulations have been put in place and we ask that visitors practiceLeave No Trace ethics.
| Trail | Status | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blodgett Basin Trail No. 31 | Open | You'll drop 1,700 feet in about 2.5 miles on this trail, enjoying good views of scenic West Clear Creek Canyon along the way. The trail begins on a pinyon juniper flat and switchbacks down a moderately steep slope into the canyon. The trail was constructed as a route to move cattle between seasonal pastures. It still serves that purpose, at the same time being a recreational resource for forest visitors. As you follow its winding route, you'll want to take time out from watching where you step to take advantage of the excellent view of one of the rarest habitats in the world. West Clear Creek is home to a healthy example of a desert riparian zone. Some would call it an oasis. It supports an exceptionally diverse plant and animal community. Biologists say that up to 80% of Arizona's wildlife species are dependent on this productive habitat. The trail arrives at West Clear Creek at an area that is popular for fishing, camping, and just plain splashing around. Another way to approach this hike is to start at the Bull Pen Ranch Trailhead and hike up the Blodgett Basin Trail for the view. Uses: Day Hiking | 34.54023, -111.707799 |
| Maxwell Trail No. 37 | Open | The Maxwell Trail starts near the end of FR 81E at the northwest corner of the parking area. The trail switchbacks to the edge of the rim and begins its steep descent into the canyon. Please be sure to stay on the trail in the section of the switchbacks as shortcutting destroys vegetation and aggravates erosion of the trail and surrounding ground cover. The rocks exposed above the rim are predominately limestone laid down when the area was covered by a shallow sea. Once in the canyon the rock type changes to sandstone, which was also deposited as a sediment in an ancient ocean. The overstory vegetation along the trail consists of transition zone species of ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, and Gambel oak. The acorns of the Gambel oak were utilized by Native Americans as a food resource because of their high nutritive value. As the trail nears the creek, the vegetation representative of a riparian community is encountered including red-osier dogwood, ash, willow, wild rose, canyon grape, box elder and poison ivy (learn to identify and avoid this three-leafed plant). The quiet pools characteristic of the creek provide habitat for blue gill, round-tailed chub, and suckers. This maintained trail ends at the creek but by bushwhacking and wading it is possible to access areas upstream and downstream of the trail. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.560729, -111.395146 |
| Tramway Trail No. 32 | Open | The trail is one of the only two maintained routes into the upper end of West Clear Creek from the north side. It is a steep trail, affording views of the creek from the rim. The trail lies within the West Clear Creek Wilderness and is closed to the use of motorized and mechanized transport (including bicycles). The trail is not suitable for horse traffic. The Tramway Trail starts at the south side of the parking area. Portions of West Clear Creek may be seen from the trail as the creek winds its way through the sinuous canyon. Good views of the various rock strata that make up the steep-walled canyon of West Clear Creek are afforded in the upper stretch of the trail. The rocks exposed near the rim are predominantly limestone laid down when the area was covered by a shallow sea. Once in the canyon, the rock type changes to sandstone, the result of deposition as sediment in an ancient ocean and by eolian (windblown) deposition. Look for the cross-bedding apparent in many of the cliff faces from this eolian deposition. Due to the southerly exposure of the trail, vegetation found on this side of the canyon consists of more heat-tolerant species such as yucca, agave, and shrub oak. Near the bottom of the canyon, these heat-tolerant plants are replaced by more typical upper riparian vegetation of Douglas fir, white fir, pine, oak, and ash. Wild sunflowers, cattails, locust, wild grape, willows, and box elder grow along the creek. The trail ends at the creek, but it is possible to access areas downstream and upstream by bushwhacking, including accessing the Maxwell Trail #37. Uses: Day Hiking | 34.55488, -111.433645 |
| West Clear Creek Trail No. 17 | Open | This trail provides the only marked and maintained access to the lower reaches of West Clear Creek Wilderness. From its western terminus at Bull Pen Ranch at the canyon mouth, the trail leads upstream into the deep, narrow gorge which West Clear Creek has cut from the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau. The first 1.5 miles of trail are more open and exposed, but after crossing the wilderness boundary, the canyon narrows and stream crossings are frequent. This first section of trail attracts large numbers of anglers, picnickers, and other streamside recreationists attracted by the clear pools, slickrock water slides, and tree-shaded riparian areas tucked away between red rock canyon walls. From the trail's upper terminus, at Bald Hill, the route drops 1,800 feet down a steep, talus-strewn slope from a high plateau of pinyon-juniper forests to the canyon floor. Aside from this hill, the trail contains occasional short but steep inclines and declines. From start to finish, this trail covers riparian habitats on the canyon floor to exposed, craggy stretches across canyon walls. Be advised that there are 4 creek crossings on this trail, ranging from knee-height to impassable depending on time of year, weather, and flood stages. While refreshing in the summer and a welcome challenge for those seeking a true wilderness experience, these crossings can be dangerous and flooding can be rapid and unexpected. Uses: Day Hiking | 34.540231, -111.7078 |
| Trail | Status | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airport Loop Trails | Open | Airport Loop/Table Top Trails #211/212, Bandit Trail, Brewer Trail The trail circles the upper slope of Airport Mesa (Table Top Mountain), described clockwise here. There is no shade until reaching the last mile where it is intermittent depending on season and time of day. From the parking area, climb to the southeast about 100 yards to the top of the small saddle. Turn right to pick up the trail which immediately bends to the left to follow the southeast slope of the mesa. There are great red rock views from northeast to south over lower Oak Creek Valley. It is a mostly level trail for the first mile and then it begins a gradual and then moderate ascent over basalt boulders to the top of the south corner of the mesa at 1.4 miles. The trail levels out, turns north and follows the airport perimeter fence for a time. It drops down to cross a small wash and climbs out to the west where it intersects the Table Top Trail at 1.7 miles. The Table Top Trail is a half-mile (one-way) spur which climbs gradually on a finger of land extending to the southeast. It ends at at point with great panoramic views taking in the Red Rock Loop Road area to the west and many of the area's most noted formations all around. Return by the same route to the main trail and continue north. Soon, the trail begins a moderate descent and turns to the northeast. Just past the 2 mile mark, the trail intersects the top of the Bandit Trail on the left which leads down into West Sedona. As you continue ahead, the trail descends some more and levels out after a switchback. The final stretch of the trail is a gradual climb eastward. The views here are over West Sedona and of Capitol Butte and Wilson Mountain. See a larger view of West Sedona from Airport Road. The trail ends at Airport Road across from the starting point at the parking turnout. Hiking time: Allow 2.5 hours for round trip Notes: No horse trailer parking. Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | 34.85547, -111.7807 |
| Baldwin, Templeton and H.T. Trails | Open | Templeton, H.T., and Baldwin Trails These recently developed trails have Cathedral Rock as their centerpiece. They are very scenic, but mostly un-shaded and can be very hot in summer. The Templeton Trail begins off the Bell Rock Pathway just north of Bell Rock, goes under Route 179 through a tunnel and heads northwest. It intersects the H.T. Trail at 1 mile. H.T. Trail is a 3/4 mile connector trail which goes northeast, passes under Route 179, and ends at the Bell Rock Pathway about 1/4 mile south of the Little Horse trailhead parking area. Enjoy the great views of the Chapel area rock formations and Courthouse Butte. The Templeton Trail continues northwest and onto a shoulder of Cathedral Rock where it intersects the middle of the Cathedral Rock Trail at 2.4 miles. The Templeton Trail continues ahead over level ground and curves around the north end of Cathedral Rock where there are great views. It then descends steeply and follows beside the creek for a time. The trail ends at 3.5 miles at its intersection with the Baldwin Trail which comes in from the left through a fence line and continues ahead (see below). The Baldwin Trail starts across the road from the south side of Red Rock Crossing (Crescent Moon) parking area near the end of the Verde Valley School Road. There is no way to drive across creek to north side of Red Rock Crossing. It heads east and soon drops down a bit to the riparian zone valley floor, near but out of sight of the creek. With many side trails accessing swim spots on Oak Creek. At 1/2 mile, it meets the end of the Templeton Trail. The Baldwin Trail forks sharply right and climbs moderately through a draw between Cathedral Rock and a red rock butte. Nice views of Cathedral Rock and back to Wilson Mountain. It levels out and then begins a gradual descent to the southwest and ends at Verde Valley School Road at 1.6 miles. Great biking trail loop. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 34.82189, -111.80806 |
| Bear Mountain Trail No. 54 | Open | The strenuous hike to the top of the mountain is mostly unshaded, steep, and difficult in places. The trail ascends over 1,800 feet in elevation over the 2.3 mile hike to the top of Bear Mountain. However, the trail provides spectacular views the entire way, and offers many rewarding turn-around points for those who don't wish to tackle the entire hike. Bear Canyon Trail is the quintessential "it's the journey, not the destination" hike. The trail begins at a broad path at the parking area, crosses two washes and then starts a gradual quarter-mile ascent to the wilderness boundary at the base of the mountain. The trail narrows and begins a steep and rocky section of switchbacks, climbing 450 feet. It levels out following narrow plateau area and then begins a steep rocky 500 foot climb in a narrow side canyon to a broad plateau. It crosses the plateau gradually ascending, dips down, and then climbs another 400 feet to a false summit. Fay Canyon views are to the right (northeast). The trail continues a moderate climb to true summit. There are great panoramic views here. Continue over level ground another 200 yards to the Red Canyon overlook and a view of the San Francisco Peaks in the distance to the north. Return by the same route. Do not attempt this hike when there is significant snow on the mountain. Expect the 4.6 mile round-trip to take approximately 4.5 hours, but you can easily spend the entire day stopping to take pictures and enjoy the non-stop views. The total accumulated elevation gain is around 2,100 feet. Much of the trail is over tilted rock. Watch for white painted diamond-shaped markers to guide you across rock where the trail is indistinct. Uses: Day Hiking | 34.893675, -111.86543 |
| Bear Sign Trail No. 59 | Open | An infrequently used trail that has a true remote feel. It is shady, and can be hiked in summer. Begin on Dry Creek Trail. Its signed trailhead is west of the parking area across a wash. The trail immediately enters Wilderness Area and turns right as it meets Dry Creek and follows along this usually dry streambed. It climbs out briefly and there is a good view of the area. At 0.75 miles, there is a junction of two drainage ditches . View along the Bear Sign TrailDry Creek continues ahead. Go left past the trailhead sign for Bear Sign. The trail climbs gradually parallel to the drainage with views of the red rock walls of this rugged canyon. later, the trail narrows and becomes less distinct, but is never far from the dry streambed and is marked by cairns. At 3 miles, the trail crosses a large wash, bends right and soon ends in a carpet of ferns with views of white Coconino sandstone cliffs. Return by the same route for a 6.5 mile hike. Rating: Moderate Hiking Time: Allow 4 hours roundtrip Uses: Hiking and Horses; Bicycles are prohibited in the Wilderness Area USGS Map: Wilson Mountain Uses: Day Hiking | 34.937332, -111.794761 |
| Big Park Trails | Open | A short offshoot of the Courthouse Butte Loop Trail, popular with bicycle enthusiasts. Park in the south Bell Rock Pathway parking area. Take trail east a short distance to the Big Park Trail. Rating: Moderate Note: Horses are prohibited on Bell Rock Pathway. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 34.791083, -111.76293 |
| Boynton Canyon Trail No. 47 | Open | Boynton Canyon is one of the most scenic of the box canyons that make Arizona Red Rock Country so famous. This particular trail enjoys the additional advantage of being conveniently accessible to nearby towns on well paved roads. As you might suspect, that is both good and bad news for those who choose to come here. The good news is you don't have to bounce down a dusty jeep track to get to the trailhead. The bad news is you may have more company than you hoped for when you arrive. Boynton Canyon always has been popular for its outstanding scenery. Lately it has become even more so, since it developed a reputation as a site of a spiritual energy vortex . Whether or not you follow this belief, you'll no doubt agree the beauty found among these towering buttes, crimson cliffs, and natural desert gardens is divine. The trail starts out by skirting a luxury resort that was recently built here. It quickly returns to the canyon floor where the walking is pleasant and easy. As you hike, take note of the variety of plants that live in this rather harsh environment, and keep an eye out for the area's plentiful wildlife which includes everything from colorful songbirds to bristling, shy whitetail deer. | 34.907816, -111.84906 |
| Brins Mesa Trail No. 119 | Open | This trail begins right at the edge of the town of Sedona and is as picturesque as it is convenient. Instead of keeping you tucked away in a deep canyon or clinging to the side of a steep slope as do a lot of other trails in this area, it leads you right out into the open where you can enjoy unobstructed views of the spectacular red rock formations for which the Sedona area and Oak Creek Canyon are famous. Bring along a map to help you identify Coffee Pot Rock, Wilson Mountain, Chimney Rock and more. The hike is not too steep and not too long, but it can be a bit hot during summer. No matter, you'll be glad you braved the heat when you see the views. An alternate approach to the Brins Mesa Trail is to drive out Vultee Arch Road and hike it from that end-same trail, same great views. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.917018, -111.808763 |
| Broken Arrow Trail No. 125 | Open | Broken Arrow Trail is an easy and popular hike on a good trail with great red rock scenery. The trail is unshaded and can be hot in summer. Begin at the signed trailhead which will direct you across the jeep road to the trail. After 200 feet, the trail bears left (south) and soon crosses a ledge at the foot of Battlement Mesa. At 0.6 miles, look for the fence around Devil's Dining Room Sinkhole 100 feet to the left and downhill. Explore, then return to the trail and continue as it gradually climbs to some scenic red rock outcrops beside Twin Buttes on the right. Continue to the end of the trail at Chicken Point at 1.5 miles. More great views. Return by the same route. At 0.5 mile from Chicken Point, take the short side path to the right signed for Submarine Rock. Walk this interesting formation, and then return by the same path to the main trail. Continue north to complete the hike of about 3.5 miles (roundtrip including Submarine Rock). The adjacent roads are used by Jeep tours. Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | 34.845552, -111.75687 |
| Bruce Brockett Trail | Open | A half-mile trail from the recently constructed Bruce Brockett trailhead accesses the Bell Trail which goes up Wet Beaver Creek and provides access to the Wet Beaver Creek Wilderness. Once on the Bell Trail, one has access to the Apache Maid and White Mesa Trails . All of these trails are good equestrian trails and allow long loop rides taking one day or more. The Bell Trail offers views of Beaver Creek. At the 3.5 mile point the Bell Trail crosses Beaver Creek and climbs up the ridge between Long Canyon and Beaver Creek and at the 5 mile point tops the rim. This trail as well as the Apache Maid Trail has a 1,600 foot vertical climb to the rim. At the top, the trail is harder to find but with a good map (using the Casner Mountain and Apache Maid Topos available at the Red Rock District office) and following trail markers you can do the Bell/Apache Maid Loop (approximately 28 miles) or the Bell/Long Canyon Trail Loop (approximately 18 miles). These routes include several unimproved roads so make sure you get more information and good maps at the Ranger Station before attempting these. Location: For access to these trails, take I-17 to Hwy 179 junction (Sedona Highway). At this junction, take FR 618 east (away from Sedona) 2 miles. At the top of the hill just before the Ranger Station, go to the left or north and park by the lagoons. This turn is marked by a sign indicating horse trailer parking. There is adequate room for up to 10 large trailers there. To reach the Bell Trail, follow the signs to go thru the gates to the east of the lagoon road or ride the short distance over a small mountain saddle down onto the Bell Trail. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.679269, -111.717686 |
| Bull Pen Day Use Area & Trailhead | Open | DAY USE ONLY! Camping is never allowed here - day use only. This popular day-use area is the trailhead for several trails. While there is a permanent vault-type toilet installed here, there is no trash pickup. Please practice Leave No Trace principals. Uses: Day Hiking Picnicking, Fishing, River and Stream Fishing | 34.539927, -111.706648 |
| Carroll Canyon Area Trails | Open | Old Post, Ridge, Carroll Canyon, Herkenham Trail This interconnected series of trails lie within Sedona, but are mostly well out of sight of developed areas. They are accessed from three trailheads shown below. A loop hike can be made combining parts of two trails and one-way hikes can be made using arranged transportation at a second trailhead. These trails have easy to moderate grades with little overall elevation change and are well signed, but have little shade. The 2.7 mile Old Post Trail starts from its north trailhead off Shelby Road, turns west after 100 yards at its junction with the Ridge Trail, and continues for .4 miles, then turns south. The end of the Carroll Canyon Trail is intersected .1 miles later. The Old Post curves west, gradually ascending with nice views to the north. It tops out, turns south and descends for .4 miles to its intersection with the other end of Carroll Canyon Trail. The Old Post bears right, goes west a short way on level ground, then descends to the south. As the trail bottoms out, it meets the end of the Herkenham Trail. There are good views of Cathedral Rock and Courthouse Butte. The trail ends after another .6 miles at the Chavez Road trailhead. The 2.0 mile Ridge Trail starts from its northern junction with the Old Post Trail. After 150 yards, the Bandit Trail, a half-mile long connector to the Airport Loop Trail, forks to the left. The Carroll Canyon Trail is joined for 1/4 mile before it branches right and the Ridge Trail continues south on a moderate ascent for the next half mile beside the slope of Airport Mesa on the left. There are good views to the north. It tops out, then descends over the up-thrown rock of the Cathedral fault. For the last half-mile, the trail descends gradually along a ridge line before ending at Chavez Ranch Road. Northern access to the Carroll Canyon Trail is gained by following the Old Post Trail west from its Shelby Road trailhead for .4 miles. The Old Post turns south and after another .1 mile, the 1.8 mile long Carroll Canyon Trail begins, branching to the left and going southeast. later, it is joined briefly by the Ridge Trail. Then the Carroll Canyon Trail forks right, crosses the Carroll Canyon wash twice, and ascends to an area above the canyon's shallow gorge. The trail turns west, still overlooking the scenic canyon, doglegs across a wash and climbs moderately to the south with good views to the north. It turns west again and descends along the Cathedral Fault and ends at its intersection with Old Post Trail. The Herkenham Trail starts at its trailhead on the east side of Upper Red Rock Loop Road across from the high school and gradually descends to the southeast with good views of Courthouse Butte and Cathedral Rock. After crossing a wash at .75 miles, it levels out and ends at 1.1 miles at the Old Post Trail, .6 miles north of the trailhead on Chavez Ranch Road. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 34.833347, -111.81049 |
| Casner Mountain Trail No. 8 | Open | Originally built to maintain power lines, Casner Mountain Trail offers Sycamore Canyon Wilderness and Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness and the Verde Valley. The trail follows an old jeep road which still provides access to the power lines and off-highway opportunities for motorized vehicles. Wildlife is abundant, particularly in the winter months. Watch for elk and deer. An occasional bear and even mountain lion are spotted. The trail begins in high desert vegetation and switchbacks up the side of Casner Mountain. Once on top of the mesa, pinyon/juniper with open grasslands are the norm. Take lots of water, especially during the summer months. Hikers and mountain bikers: The trail is open year-round, and the ascent is very strenuous and accounts for about 2 miles of the total length. However, once on top the hike/ride is really quite easy to moderate. Motorized vehicles: Casner Mountain Trail is designated as a motorized trail with very rugged conditions along a narrow ridge with limited opportunity for two-way traffic. Gates are closed year-round, but access can be gained by the following: ATVs/dirt bikes (vehicles LESS than 62" wide): No permit is required. The trail is open year-round between the FR 525C/9529 intersection at the bottom of the mountain, and FR 538B, where the trail enters the Flagstaff Ranger District at the top. Though there are gates at the top and bottom, there is room to go around the gates. During wintertime FR 538B and other roads in this region of the Forest may be closed. OHVs/modified 4-wheel drive vehicles (vehicles MORE than 62" wide): A permit is required, which is free. The road is only open for permitted access between mid-May and mid-October. Reservations for permits begin on March 6, 2025 at 8:30 a.m. Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Road Riding | 34.9233, -111.9813 |
| Cathedral Rock Trail No. 170 | Open | More of a rock climb than a hike, this trail is unshaded and steep and difficult in places. Follow the basket cairns across the wash and up the moderate slope toward the spires. At 0.25 mile, the trail emerges on a broad ledge with nice views. Then, it ascends steeply over bald rock and in a shallow cleft with a few toeholds notched into the rock to help on the steeper places. Emerging on a small knob, cairns show the way up and across several ledges toward the deep drainage ahead which it follows, climbing moderately steeply to the top of a wide saddle between two spires. Great views all along, but quite spectacular from the top. An unmaintained path leads south along the west base of the spires giving access, with short climbs, to two more saddles between sheer rock faces and a close-up view of an exposed lava dike at the first. Return by the same route for a 1.5 mile hike. Hot in summer. Uses: Day Hiking | 34.825206, -111.788423 |
| Cockscomb Trail System | Open | This interconnected series of trails lies at the northern edge of Sedona near Dry Creek. Trails in this system include Girdner, Arizona Cypress, Dawa, Cockscomb, Rupp, OK, Anaconda, and Snake Trails . These trails may be reached using the three trailheads shown below, or by using either of the two Girdner trailheads. The Girdner Trail and its access are fully described in a separate trail sheet. Various loop hikes can be made by combining all or parts of several trails and a number of one-way hikes can be made using arranged transportation at a second trailhead. In general, these trails are well suited to biking, have easy to moderate grades with little overall elevation change, are well signed, but have sparse shade. The Arizona Cypress Trail begins at its trailhead by the old borrow pit and goes southwest over the level, sandy ground of a closed jeep road beside Dry Creek. At 0.7 miles, it intersects the south end of the OK Trail and continues southwest for another half mile where it meets the end of the Dawa Trail. Here, the Arizona Cypress Trail turns southeast and continues 0.7 miles to its end at the Girdner Trail. There are nice views along the way. (Note: There is a target shooting pit near the trailhead. This trailhead is not appropriate for pets and horses that are easily spooked by gunfire and loud noises.) From its trailhead, the Dawa Trail goes south a short way before bending to the west along a closed jeep road with some good views. It meets the Cockscomb Trail at 0.9 miles and turns sharply southeast to follow it for 100 feet. The Cockscomb Trail then splits off to the southwest and the Dawa Trail continues southeast for 0.8 miles before ending at the Arizona Cypress Trail beside Dry Creek. The Cockscomb Trail goes south from its trailhead along a jeep road for 0.3 miles, bends west for 0.2 miles, then goes southeast along a closed jeep road skirting the face of Doe Mountain. It intersects the Dawa Trail at 1 mile, turns to the southwest, and ends at 1.8 miles near the Cockscomb. From here, the Cockscomb Trail continues along the old road as the Rupp Trail . It bends to the east and there are nice views all around as it crosses a broad, open expanse before ending at 1.2 miles as it drops down into the Dry Creek drainage and meets the Girdner Trail. Anaconda Trail runs 1.7 miles from Arizona Cypress Trail east to Girdner and Snake Trails. Snake Trail runs 0.4 mile north back to the Arizona Cypress Trailhead. The OK Trail is a short connector which can provide variety in making up various routes. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 34.90117, -111.858007 |
| Cornville Trail System | Open | The Cornville Trail System is a series of interconnected, non-motorized trails in the Cornville, Arizona area. Trail Segment Descriptions (Distances are approximate):
Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 34.721308, -111.98702 |
| Deadmans Pass Trail | Open | This trail features easy hiking and riding on open trails next to wilderness canyons and is a connector trail between the Long Canyon Trail and the Boynton Canyon Trail. For mountain bikers, this trail has a little bit of everything in the way of riding terrain - dirt road at the start, wide dirt trail along Long Canyon Trail and finally single track riding (some over rocks) on the Deadmans Pass Trail. Rating : Easy Trailhead Elevation : 5120 (300 ft. gain) Hiking time : approximately 30 minutes one-way Notes: Should you venture northward on either Long Canyon Trail or Boynton Canyon Trail you would be in the Red Rocks/Secret Mountain Wilderness. No mountain bikes, wheeled devices, or mechanized transportation allowed in Wilderness. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 34.907701, -111.849 |
| Deer Pass Trailhead | Open | The Deer Pass Trailhead is a mid-point for the Lime Kiln Trail . There is a large parking lot that was built for horse-trailer parking; other amenities at the trailhead include a toilet and an information kiosk. You will find the trailhead less than a quarter mile south of Hwy 89A on FR89B. (Forest Road 89B is directly across Hwy 89A from FR525.) From this point, the historic Lime Kiln Trail goes east 5.5 miles to Red Rock State Park and west 9.5 miles to Dead Horse Ranch State Park. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.813906, -111.900449 |
| Devil's Bridge Trail No. 120 | Open | Devil's Bridge is the largest natural sandstone arch in the Sedona area. Don't let its name fool you: it's one of the most heavenly sights in an area famous for them. From a trailhead elevation of 4,600 feet, there's a mere 400 foot climb in altitude during this moderately difficult, 1.8-mile roundtrip trek. The journey to reach the top won't leave you breathless -- but we would never say the same about the views you'll witness when you finally get there. This popular hike has attractions for both casual hikers who lack the desire or the stamina to stray too far from civilization, and the more adventurous outdoors enthusiasts. Starting at the parking area, follow the trailmarker that points the way to Devil's Bridge Trail. You'll find the early going effortless; the trail, originally built for jeep travel, is smooth and clear and leads you through washes filled with juniper and prickly pear cactus. The path slowly inclines uphill, gently growing more steep as you progress. There's some beautiful scenery to absorb as you proceed upward, but you've still got a ways to go before you get to see Devil's Bridge itself. After you've walked about three-quarters of a mile from the parking area, the trail will divide. Head down the path to the left and you'll end up at the base of the bridge. For a cool view, stand directly under the 50 foot high arch and look toward the heavens -- and take care not to strain your neck. But it's the topside trail that provides the biggest treat. Follow it up a steep, natural rock staircase to a wide open area that offers some fantastic views. Keep going, and you'll reach yet another level that leads directly to Devil's Bridge. If you have the nerve, you can walk across the top; once you're on it you'll find it's not such a tough walk. But use caution and exercise some common sense; it's a long way down. Passenger car note: The unpaved portion of Dry Creek Road (FR 152) requires a high-clearance vehicle. Low clearance vehicles can park at the Dry Creek Road trailhead at the end of the paved section of road or at the Mescal Trailhead on Long Canyon Road. The recommended routes are either Mescal to Chuckwagon to Devils Bridge trails (4.0 miles round trip) from Long Canyon Road, or Chuckwagon to Devil's Bridge trails from Dry Creek Road (5.8 miles round trip). The unpaved portion of Dry Creek Road is a popular jeep trail, and not recommended for pedestrian use. See driving directions below. Uses: Day Hiking | 34.903223, -111.81396 |
| Doe Mountain Trail No. 60 | Open | The Doe Mountain Trail will be closed Wednesday through Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. starting February 26 through April 5 for public safety as trail maintenance activities are performed. The trail will be open outside of these dates and times. This trail not only provides a big dividend of scenery for a moderate outlay of exertion, but it is easily accessible as well. From the ample parking lot at its trailhead, the Doe Mountain Trail switchbacks directly up the north side of this low, flat-topped Mesa. As you climb, you'll want to take time out to enjoy the excellent views of the surrounding countryside. A layer of erosion resistant cap rock has given Doe Mountain its classic mesa shape and provides hikers with a great platform from which enjoy the panoramic view. From this 400 foot high perspective, you can see a number of the Sedona Red Rocks Country's more prominent landmarks . You'll see Bear, Maroon, and Wilson mountains, Loy, Boynton, and Secret Canyons, Chimney Rock, and the Cockscomb to name a few. Sedona is visible to the east and off to the south, Munds Mountain and Sycamore Pass mark the location of Sycamore Canyon and the Verde Valley. Length: 0.7 miles to the top of the mesa, 1.3 miles around the edge. Uses: Day Hiking | 34.89353, -111.86515 |
| Dry Creek Trail No. 52 | Open | The road to Dry Creek Trail is very primitive and suitable for high-clearance vehicles only. Begin at the Dry Creek trailhead west of the parking area across a wash. The trail immediately enters Wilderness Area and turns right as it meets Dry Creek and follows along this usually dry streambed. At .75 miles, there is a junction with Bear Sign Trail. Dry Creek Trail continues ahead to the right. The trail climbs gradually parallel to the drainage with views of the red rock walls of this rugged canyon. Later, the trail narrows and becomes less distinct, but is never far from the dry streambed. At 2.5 miles, the trail crosses a large wash and becomes much harder to follow. If you do not have good route finding skills, this junction is a good place to turn back. If you decide to continue, cross the wash, turn to the right, and follow the wash to the north for approximately one more mile, coming close up under the Mogollon Rim in a dense stand of ponderosa pine. The trail ends here. Return by the same route for a 6 mile hike. Uses: Day Hiking | 34.937342, -111.7946 |
| Fay Canyon Trail No. 53 | Open | Fay Canyon is a favorite hike for many who prefer a shorter hike with minimal elevation gain or who enjoy the grandeur of red sandstone walls towering overhead. This small, hidden canyon supports a diverse community of desert plants and provides good views of the surrounding cliffs. It dead ends at a red Supai sandstone cliff. Throughout Fay Canyon you can marvel at the breathtaking scenery that surrounds you. Please be sure to practice Leave No Trace principles and stay on the designated trail. | 34.901929, -111.85791 |
| Girdner Trail No. 162 | Open | The trail may be hiked one-way with arranged transportation and would be rated moderate. The route north from the Cultural Park Trailhead to the Dry Creek Road Trailhead is described here. The trail begins near the ramada and interpretive signs and descends gradually to the north, then northwest, with good views. At 1 mile, it begins a moderate descent to the west, bends north and enters the Dry Creek drainage. After two crossings of the drainage, the trail meets the gas pipeline access road (closed to motor vehicles) at 1.5 miles. It follows the road for about 1/8 mile, then branches north and rejoins Dry Creek which it follows for the next 1.2 miles. This portion of the trail involves crossing the normally dry creek many times in a rather narrow, shallow canyon and should not be hiked following heavy rain. The trail intersects the Rupp Trail (see Cockscomb Trail System) branching uphill to the left following an old roadbed at 2.8 miles. Cross the creek and follow the same road (closed) as it climbs out of the drainage to the northeast and circles to the southeast for 1/4 mile. Here at the road blockage, the trail forks left and climbs moderately to the crest of a ridge with nice views of the mountains to the north. It now descends to the east toward Capitol Butte. At 3.5 miles, the Arizona Cypress trail branches left. Continue east for 1/8 mile and after crossing a wash the second time, bear left at the intersection with the Two Fence Trail (not shown on map) which goes right. The trail climbs moderately, tops out, then descends to the east and levels out. As it approaches Dry Creek Road, the trail bears right and parallels the road a short way and ends at the signed trailhead about 50 feet north of the intersection with FS 152. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 34.852527, -111.831457 |
| HS Canyon Trail No. 50 | Open | This is an infrequently used trail. It is sufficiently shaded to allow hiking in summer. Start on Secret Canyon Trail. Its signed trailhead is across the usually dry streambed of Dry Creek, west of the parking area. It immediately enters Wilderness. Follow this wide, nearly flat trail for 2/3 mile and look for the sign for HS Canyon Trail on the left. The trail climbs gradually in the shade of oak and alligator juniper. At about 1.5 miles from the parking area, views of red rock formations open up. The trail narrows further as it climbs moderately beside the small canyon drainage. At 2.25 miles, the trail approaches the sheer face of Maroon Mountain and switchbacks up to a small clearing for nice views of the mountain and the end of the box canyon. Return by the same route for a 5 mile rountrip hike. Rating : Strenuous Hiking time : Allow 3 hours roundtrip Note: Trail is too narrow for horses. Bicycles prohibited in the wilderness Uses: Day Hiking | 34.938567, -111.81024 |
| Huckaby Trail No. 161 | Open | This trail, constructed in 1998, is never far from the sights and sounds of Sedona. It is a pretty trail which offers a variety of views. It can be hiked from the Schnebly Hill trailhead (as described herein) or from Midgley Bridge. The trail is nearly level for 1/8 mile. The Margs Draw Trail forks off to the left. Huckaby continues ahead and soon descends rather steeply, crosses Bear Wallow Wash, then ascends moderately over the next 1/2 mile. It tops out on a ridge and winds on level ground with nice views over Oak Creek and Uptown Sedona to many of the familiar red rock formations of the area. At the 1 mile point, the trail curves around the top of Mitten Ridge with Steamboat Rock, Wilson Mountain and Midgley Bridge coming into view beyond the creek below. Then, it begins a moderate descent over the next 1/2 mile to the floodplain of Oak Creek. the trail goes north beside the creek for 1/2 mile in the partial shade of the riparian trees. At 2 miles, opposite the north end of Midgley Bridge, the trail crosses a branch of the creek which requires wading or boulder hopping. Do not cross if the water is high. The trail continues north for 0.2 miles, then another boulder hop of the west branch is needed. The trail now climbs moderately over switchbacks, passes beneath Midgley Bridge, and ends at the parking area at the north end of the bridge. The trails is mostly unshaded except along the creek and can be hot in summer. Return by the same route or do one way in either direction with arranged transportation. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.86611, -111.748562 |
| Jim Thompson Trail No. 124 | Open | This trail can be hiked from either the Wilson Mountain Trailhead (Midgely Bridge) or the Jim Thompson Trailhead. From Midgley Bridge parking area, start along the road past the picnic ramada. At 0.1 miles, bear right onto the trail marked by large rock cairns. It gradually climbs, then descends to the canyon drainage. At 0.6 miles, pass the fork signed for Wilson Mountain Trail and 100 yards further, take the left fork signed for Jim Thompson Trail. It immediately begins a 0.2 mile moderate climb. Bear right as you top out and after 100 yards, take the left fork (to the right is a path onto Steamboat Rock). The trail is wide and nearly flat with sparse shade as it follows an old road along the base of Steamboat Rock and past Steamboat Tank on the right at 1.5 miles. Nice views. Parking specifically for vehicles pulling horse trailers is provided at the Jim Thompson trailhead, but behind a locked gate. Please contact the Red Rock Ranger Station for the current combination at 928-203-2900. At 2.25 miles, the trail passes through a cattle gate, becoming narrower and more shaded as it gently descends into Mormon Canyon. At the bottom, the trail bends right into the canyon a short way before joining the start of Brins Mesa Trail on a closed road at 3 miles. The Jim Thompson Trailhead parking area is 150 yards south (left) down the road just past the gate. Return by the same route for a 6 mile roundtrip hike or hike one way in either direction with arranged transportation. Parking specifically for vehicles pulling horse trailers is provided at the Jim Thompson trailhead, but behind a locked gate. Please contact the Red Rock Ranger Station for the current combination at 928-203-2900. This trail, constructed in 1998, is never far from the sights and sounds of Sedona. It is a pretty trail which offers a variety of views. It can be hiked from the Schnebly Hill trailhead (as described herein) or from Midgley Bridge. The trail is nearly level for 1/8 mile. The Margs Draw Trail forks off to the left. Huckaby continues ahead and soon descends rather steeply, crosses Bear Wallow Wash, then ascends moderately over the next 1/2 mile. It tops out on a ridge and winds on level ground with nice views over Oak Creek and Uptown Sedona to many of the familiar red rock formations of the area. At the 1 mile point, the trail curves around the top of Mitten Ridge with Steamboat Rock, Wilson Mountain and Midgley Bridge coming into view beyond the creek below. Then, it begins a moderate descent over the next 1/2 mile to the floodplain of Oak Creek. the trail goes north beside the creek for 1/2 mile in the partial shade of the riparian trees. At 2 miles, opposite the north end of Midgley Bridge, the trail crosses a branch of the creek which requires wading or boulder hopping. Do not cross if the water is high. The trail continues north for 0.2 miles, then another boulder hop of the west branch is needed. The trail now climbs moderately over switchbacks, passes beneath Midgley Bridge, and ends at the parking area at the north end of the bridge. The trails is mostly unshaded except along the creek and can be hot in summer. Return by the same route or do one way in either direction with arranged transportation. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 34.88828, -111.768354 |
| Lime Kiln Trail No. 82 | Open | The Lime Kiln was constructed during the mid 1880's to burn limestone and create lime for the mortar used in the construction of the Willard House and the Strahan house. The kiln is believed to have been built by Charles and G.M. "Mack" Willard, "the Willard Boys" who built the house in Cottonwood for their widowed mother, Mary. Charles Willard is recognized as the "Father of Cottonwood". The Kiln was excavated out of a limestone ledge in the White Hills above Cottonwood. The front was closed with rock and mud mortar, and the top is open. Today, the kiln is about 6ft. high but it originally stood as high as 20 feet and had a solid cap. The Lime Kiln Road was constructed at the same time as the kiln to bring lime from the kiln to the Willard and Strahan house construction sites. Eventually the road continued beyond the Lime Kiln to connect into the Oak Creek Road, and became known as the Lime Kiln Cut-Off. This route became a favorite route for early settlers of the upper Verde Valley because it was considerably shorter than the main road. The road was constructed for horse and wagon use and was abandoned by the time automobile use became popular (Willard 1979). The Lime Kiln Trail is 15 miles long. Nine miles are non-motorized and six miles are motorized. Access points include Dead Horse Ranch State Park, The Bill Grey Road, Hwy 89A, The Deer Pass Road (FR 89B), Lower Red Rock Loop Road and Red Rock State Park. In 2005 the trail was listed as a Centennial Trail by the USDA Forest Service, in celebration of the 100th birthday of the US Forest Service. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.813907, -111.90045 |
| Little Horse Trail No. 61 | Open | Little Horse Trail begins as part of the Bell Rock Pathway. Follow this wide trail southward for 0.25 mile. Here, at a signed fork, take the old jeep road branching to the left and marked with basket cairns. The road drops to cross a dry streambed, climbs a bit and ends at the 0.75 mile point. The trail continues to the left and climbs moderately, topping out on a large, flat expanse. Turn to the right here. The level trail leads into a stand of Arizona cypress and intersects Chapel Trail on the left coming from the Chapel of the Holy Cross as it nears the "Madonna and the Nuns" spire rock formation. Beautiful views. At 1.4 miles, it passes through a gate. Continue for 150 yards passing the base of the knobs of Chicken Point on the left. Take the path left for a short climb onto the bare rock for wonderful views. This point is used by jeep tours via Broken Arrow Road. Return by the same route for a 3 mile roundtrip hike or exit the area by going north on the with arranged transportation at its trailhead. The hike can also be extended eastward from the base of Chicken Point into the Wilderness area (no bicycles allowed) on the Jim Bryant Trail. Little Horse Trail is mostly unshaded and hot in summer. At the Little Horse Trailhead, there is a sign with a map of the trail. You can find a photo of this map in the slideshow below. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 34.818599, -111.771367 |
| Llama Trail | Open | The Templeton Trail, Baldwin Trail, Llama Trail, Little Horse Trail, and Broken Arrow Trail are popular mountain bike trails. Although suitable for hiking, the Llama Trail is an alternate connector between the Little Horse Trail and Templeton trail for mountain bikers wishing to avoid the popular Bell Rock Pathway. The Llama Trail is marked at its intersection with the Little Horse Trail. There is a large dead pinion pine tree at the intersection. Before the Llama Trail was marked, bikers carved a broad area around the trail intersection attempting to locate the Llama Trail access. Please stay on the trail so the area can heal. Bikers should take care to use the Bell Rock Pathway to access the Bell Rock Vista parking area. The Court House Butte Loop Trail passes through the Munds Mountain Wilderness where bikes are prohibited. Please respect the protection afforded by wilderness areas on plants and wildlife. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 34.891518, -111.7616 |
| Long Canyon Trail No. 122 | Open | Wide and nearly level, Long Canyon Trail provides easy access into Sedona's scenic red rock backcountry. For the first mile or so, the route follows an old jeep trail up an ephemeral streambed. Though this drainage is usually dry, it still supports a community of riparian or water-loving vegetation. Along the trail you'll even find a number of cypress trees, Arizona cypress, which are easily recognizable by their shaggy bark and round, gum ball-size seeds. Providing a scenic setting for this unique habitat are a sampling of the picturesque buttes and cliffs for which the Sedona area is so famous. Steamboat Rock, Wilson Mountain, Maroon Mountain, and a number of unnamed cliffs, spires, windows and arches are visible from this trail. The trail ends at a red sandstone cliff where there are a few small Indian ruins and some primitive rock pictographs. Please don't disturb them. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.9071, -111.8241 |
| Long Canyon Trail No. 63 | Open | This trail starts upstream of the Beaver Creek Picnic Area and switchbacks up to the top of the mesa providing glimpses of the Verde Valley and the red rock country of Sedona on the way. Once on the mesa, the trail levels out and affords a panoramic view of the surrounding country, including the San Francisco Peaks to the north. The trail trends in a southeasterly direction and climbs again to the top of the Mogollon Rim. Once on the rim, the trail may be indistinct and thus hard to follow. Look for the rock cairns that mark the route. The trail passes by Long Canyon Tank, which provides the only source of water on the trail. Vegetation removal on the rim has left forested "fingers" that provide important cover for wildlife. Watch for elk, antelope, and deer in these areas of mixed forest and grassland. The trail crossed the road that runs to the east of Long Canyon Tank and enters the forested area along the edge of Long Canyon. This area was utilized by the prehistoric Sinagua culture and artifacts and habitation sites may be found. Remember that Federal law prohibits the removal of artifacts and the damaging of archeological sites. Leave any artifacts found for the enjoyment of others and take only photographs. The trail continues southeasterly following the canyon and crosses the north and south forks of Long Canyon before heading north to junction with the Bell Trail #13. Be sure to bring a topographic map of the area, compass and plenty of water when hiking this trail. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.675644, -111.701469 |
| Loy Canyon Trail No. 5 | Open | This easy trail leads up a desert wilderness canyon offering excellent views not only at trail's end, but all along the way as well. The wide, well constructed path was used by the Samuel Loy family on the 1880's to move their livestock to and from summer pastures on the canyon's rim. The trail starts out by skirting the fence line of the Hancock Ranch. Sheer cliffs of vermilion and buff sandstone form a colorful backdrop for the desert garden of manzanita, catclaw, cholla and prickly pear that carpets the canyon floor. Natural rock sculptures carved by flash floods and spring runoff that seasonally course down this normally dry streambed provide scenic settings for lunch stops along the way. If there's been a recent rain the sculpture may include a picturesque reflecting pool or a natural bathtub for a cool dip on a hot day. Underground moisture is sufficient year-round to support a desert riparian area rich in bird and other animal life. Near the end of the canyon, the trail becomes strenuous, completing the majority of the 1680 foot climb to a high saddle that leads to the top of a mesa called Secret Mountain in the Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness. Here you can continue along the Secret Mountain Trail for more spectacular overlooks or catch your breath for the return trip and a different perspective on all that you've passed through on the hike up. Uses: Backpacking Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.93229, -111.925016 |
| Mooney Trail No. 12 | Open | This trail was originally built to drive cattle to and from summer pastures on the rim and is still used for this purpose. Because of this relationship to ranching, this is a wide, well constructed trail. The trail begins next to Black Tank at the junction of FR 525C and FR 9551. The trail turns due north along an old Forest road. that runs along the Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness Boundary. The old road ends at Sebra Tank and the foot path begins. Note: the old road (FR 9551a) is closed. Driving motorized vehicles on this old roadbed is prohibited. The old road runs along the Wilderness boundary. Bicycles and other mechanized vehicles should be careful to stay on the trail and not ride off-trail into Wilderness. The free Motor Vehicle Use Map shows which roads are designated for motorized travel on the Forest. From Sebra Tank the trail follows Mooney Canyon for about a mile at which time it starts a steep ascent to the top to the rim. Views are outstanding not only from the top but all along the way. Shade is available in the riparian zone of the canyon but once on the slopes of the canyon, shade becomes scarce. The trail tops out at the junction of Taylor Cabin Trail and Casner Mountain Trail. These trails offer some alternatives to returning by way of the same route. Please note that this can be a very hot hike during the warm months. Take plenty of water! Rating : Strenuous Hiking time : Plan on a full day. Notes : No motorized or mechanized vehicles in Wilderness. No motorized vehicles on the two-track portion of the trail running between FR 9551 and the Wilderness boundary at Sebra Tank. Uses: Backpacking Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.906392, -111.963824 |
| Munds Wagon Trail No. 78 | Open | The trail connects Schnebly Hill Trail to Margs Draw Trail and Huckaby Trail. It is well-marked, mostly moderate in grade, and offers occasional shade under Arizona cypress. Beginning from the east trailhead (near the top of Bear Wallow Canyon and Schnebly Hill Road high clearance jeep trail), the trail descends moderately to the south and levels out as it partially circles the base of Merry-Go-Round Rock with spectacular views west down Bear Wallow Canyon toward Sedona and south to Munds Mountain. It then resumes its descent and bends to the west, crossing a switchback of Schnebly Hill Road twice with good views of Mitten Ridge on the right (north). Now, the trail drops into Bear Wallow Wash and follows in or beside the drainage for a considerable distance. The trail then climbs out of the wash, crosses a low ridge and another wash and then climbs moderately. Now, high above the canyon floor, there are great views back to the Mogollon Rim and of nearby red rock formations at the west end of Mitten Ridge to the right. T he trail continues west and crosses the road twice on a high area overlooking Uptown Sedona and many of the area formations. After a brief descent and climb, the trail ends at 4.0 miles at the Huckaby Trailhead just off Schnebly Hill Road. It is possible to take shorter hikes on portions of the trail utilizing the various mid-trail access points, one at Merry-Go-Round and others where the trail intersects or passes next to Schnebly Hill Road. Road crossings are marked with basket cairns. This historic trail follows one of the first and most popular cattle trails out of the Sedona area. Upgrading of the trail began in 1896, but its completion as a wagon trail awaited the work of pioneer J.J. Thompson, funded by Coconino County, in 1902. It was known as the Munds Road and later as the Schnebly Hill Road. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 34.882137, -111.71107 |
| Mystic Trail | Open | The Mystic trail is 0.9 miles long. It runs between Chapel Road and Pine Knolls Drive. The trail is open for hiking and mountain biking. Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking | 34.832957, -111.77083 |
| North Urban Trail System - East | Open | Red Rock Passes are available at the Jim Thompson Trailhead access to the North Urban Trail System at the end of Park Ridge Drive (Jordan, Cibola Pass, Brins Mesa, and Jim Thompson trails). The North Urban Trail System is an interconnected series of trails north of Sedona along the red rock front country. These trails extend from the Jim Thompson Trailhead on the east end to the Thunder Mountain Trailhead to the west. The eastern portion, described here, includes the above listed trails. Beginning on the east side, the Jordan Trail and Cibola Pass Trail can be accessed from the Jim Thompson Trailhead at the north end of Jordan Road. These trails can be hiked as an easy scenic loop of 2 miles in partial shade with an elevation gain of about 200 feet. Either can be used to reach the Soldier Pass area and the Devil's Kitchen sinkhole to the west, a distance of 1.3 miles with an elevation gain of about 200 feet (one-way). The Jordan Trail is open to mountain bicyclists, the Cibola Pass and Brins Mesa Trails are closed to mountain bicycles given these trails are located within the wilderness. Continuing to the west, the Soldier Pass Trail crosses the Jordan Trail near the Devil's Kitchen sinkhole. The Soldier Pass Trailhead is located approximately 0.2 miles to the south. The Teacup Trail, mostly open, meanders west past the base of Coffee Pot Rock and climbs moderately to the base of Sugarloaf Hill to the south. On the south side of the Sugarloaf Loop Trail , the Summit Trail can be taken to climb 250 feet to the top of this hill for marvelous panoramic views. The Teacup Trail continues southwest a bit further to the Sugarloaf Trailhead parking area, 1.8 miles from the Soldier Pass area. The Teacup Trail intersects the Thunder Mountain Trail, 0.3 miles north of the Sugarloaf Trailhead. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 34.888167, -111.768278 |
| North Urban Trail System - West | Open | Lower Chimney Rock, Summit, Chimney Rock Pass, Thunder Mountain Trails The North Urban Trail System is an interconnected series of trails along the red rock front country at the north edge of Sedona. The western portion, described here, includes the above listed trails. These trails may be reached using the three trailheads shown below or from the Teacup Trail from the west. An easy 1.4 mile loop can be made from the Thunder Mountain Trailhead using Lower Chimney Rock Trail and the southern portion of the Thunder Mountain Trail. From the loop, a short but steep route climbs up the Summit Trail to Chimney Rock Vista on top of a red rock hill with a great 360 degree view. A moderate 2.6 mile loop can be made using the Chimney Rock Pass Trail and more of the Thunder Mountain Trail, or a moderate figure-8 of 3 miles can be hiked using the same trails. The trailhead at the north end of Andante Drive can also be used as the starting point for these loops. These trails offer no shade. The Thunder Mountain Trail is the connector between these western trails and the eastern portion of the North Urban Trail System. The trail begins at the Thunder Mountain Trailhead and goes north, passing Chimney Rock. It then turns east and crosses the open area south of the sheer face of Capitol Butte, intersecting Teacup Trail at 1.7 miles. This is an easy, level trail, but there is no shade. The Teacup Trail continues east. The Sugarloaf Trailhead is 0.3 miles to the south. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 34.87088, -111.81138 |
| Red Rock Loop Trail | Open | The Red Rock Trail Loop is a narrow trail that links the Sedona High School with Lower Red Rock Loop Road. The trail is open to non-motorized users: horses, hikers and bikes. It offers splendid views of the red rocks and is part of a loop around Scheurman Mountain (if you link it up with the Scheurman Mountain Trail). It is an easy to moderate trail which was built on top of a restored pipeline right-of-way. The Red Rock Loop trail is 1.4 miles long. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 34.846159, -111.82857 |
| Schuerman Mountain Trail No. 56 | Open | On weekdays when school is in session, DO NOT park on high school property. Use dirt pullouts on east side of road. This is a good trail that climbs gently for 0.2 miles to the base of the low mountain, then bends to the left and begins a moderately steep climb up the east flank and onto the basaltic lava of this old volcano. Nice views. The trail turns right (west) into a small drainage and continues to climb, emerging on a low saddle at 0.5 miles where it intersects a north/south trail. Turn right (north) and follow the path as it climbs gently for 0.25 miles to the mountain's high point. Go a bit further to the edge for great panoramic views. Return to the junction with the upcoming trail. For more great views, continue ahead for 50 yards to a well-defined fork. The right branch crosses the top of the mountain and drops down to Lower Red Rock Loop Road. Take the left fork (east) which gently climbs, ending after 0.33 miles on a point of land among large basalt blocks. This vantage point offers wonderful views all around. Return by the same route. This trail is unshaded and can be hot in summer. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 34.84622, -111.828555 |
| Secret Canyon Loop Trails | Open | Secret Canyon/David Miller/Bear Sign/Dry Creek Trails Loop A scenic red rock country loop which involves the use of four trails. It can be hiked in either direction. The clockwise direction loop starting from the Secret Canyon Trailhead is described here. Start at the signed trailhead for the Secret Canyon Trail across the usually dry streambed of Dry Creek west of the parking area. The trail immediately enters the Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness. The wide, nearly flat trail leads into the wide canyon mouth with nice views, but no shade. At 2/3 mile, the HS Canyon Trail branches off to the left. Continue ahead. At 1.75 miles, turn right onto the David Miller Trail at the signed fork. It climbs gently for about 0.5 mile then more steeply for another 0.25 mile to a saddle which overlooks Bear Sign Canyon and the Dry Creek drainage area. The trail now descends steeply 200 feet into Bear Sign Canyon and ends at its intersection with the Bear Sign Trail. Turn right and follow this shady trail to the southeast as it gradually descends beside the canyon drainage for 2.25 miles to the confluence of the Bear Sign and Dry Creek washes. This is also the trailhead for the Bear Sign Trail. Turn right and follow the Dry Creek Trail southward. It follows the usually dry streambed on a gradual descent except for one short climb out of the drainage which allows views over the canyon. After nearly .75 miles on this trail, it crosses the creek, turns left and ends at the trailhead parking area shared with the Vultee Arch Trail. To complete the loop, follow the road southwest for about 1 mile to return to the Secret Canyon Trail parking area. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.9304, -111.8072 |
| Secret Canyon Trail No. 121 | Open | The road to Secret Canyon Trail is very primitive and suitable for high-clearance vehicles only. The signed trailhead is across the usually dry streambed of Dry Creek west of the parking area. The trail immediately enters Wilderness. The wide, nearly flat trail leads into the wide canyon mouth with nice views, but no shade from the desert scrub vegetation. At 2/3 mile, HS Canyon Trail branches off to the left. Continue ahead for Secret Canyon. At 2 miles, continue ahead (west) as the trail drops down to cross a drainage. It climbs gently for the next 3 miles beside the canyon drainage, frequently dipping down to cross it. There is shade from oak and ponderosa and nice views of red rock formations. At 5 miles, the streambed turns sharply left a short distance to an interesting "chute". Return to the trail which continues ahead, climbs sharply, then levels out. At 5.5 miles, there is a deep ravine and a series of pools in the solid rock streambed. An unmaintained trail continues on. Return by the same route for an 11 mile hike. The entire length of this hike is enjoyable and rewarding, so hike as much or as little as you'd like for the day. The trail can be very hot in summer. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.9304, -111.8072 |
| Soldier Pass Trail No. 66 | Open | This trail provides a diverse experience beginning in an urban setting and eventually leads into Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness, increasing the potential for solitude. The first half of this trail is often busy, and there is jeep tour and off-road vehicle traffic nearby. Enter at the signed trailhead which is open only from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. The trail dips to cross a wash then climbs out to the Devils Kitchen sinkhole just off the trail to the right at 1/4 miles. The trail then goes over level ground for 1/4 mile to the Seven Sacred Pools to the left of the trail. It continues on in the partial shade of Arizona cypress and intersects the end of a jeep road at 1.2 miles. The trail forks at the wilderness area boundary sign 1/8 mile further on. The right branch leads up rather steeply for 1/4 mile to an arch. Great views. The left branch is the main trail. This leads out of the wash on a moderate grade. Most of the shade is lost, but the views open up. The trail becomes increasingly steep and rocky as it climbs to the pass. Nearing 2 miles, it levels out on top of Brins Mesa, then continues for another 1/4 miles where it intersects Brins Mesa Trail. Ultimately, scenic vistas can be enjoyed south into Sedona and north into the wilderness and the red cliffs of the Mogollon Rim. Return by the same route for a 4.5 mile round trip hike. Soldier Pass Motorized Access: The unpaved section Soldier Pass Road provides access for motorized vehicles to visit Devil's Kitchen sinkhole, Seven Sacred Pools, and the Forest Roads in the area. Motorized access beyond the trailhead requires a permit. Get more information and apply for a permit at Soldier Pass Motorized Use Permits . Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 34.884247, -111.783848 |
| Towel Creek Trail No. 67 | Open | This trail is unique among those on the Coconino National Forest. It leads through an area of picturesque buttes and low bluffy mountains that is quite different from that along any other trail on the forest. It is also one of the few trails on the Coconino that leads to the Verde River, a great place to camp out or cool your feet before starting back to the trailhead. The main vegetation type in this rugged country is high chaparral. It consists mostly of manzanita, scrub oak, and cliffrose. There are hackberries here too, for which nearby Hackberry Mountain is named. Cottonwoods, sycamores and willows cluster near the few seeps and springs, while stands of pinyons and junipers cling to the higher elevations. The Towel Creek area has been grazed since the latter half of the nineteenth century. Along the trail, you'll see evidence of its cattle growing past, present, and even its future. One thing you might notice is that the grass cover is comparatively healthy here in spite of its being grazed. That's the result of a progressive management program being used by the local rancher. The Towel Creek Trail is used to move cattle between seasonal ranges. About 3 miles from the trailhead, a short side-hike leads to Towel Spring. 3.5 miles further along you'll see an old line shack which is still used by cowboys. From here it's two more miles to the Verde River and its cool waters. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.433417, -111.687472 |
| Turkey Creek Trail No. 92 | Open | This seldom used trail offers vistas and interesting geology. Follow the blocked road, taking the right fork at 0.3 miles. The unshaded road winds in a southwesterly direction with some gentle ups and downs for 1.5 miles to Turkey Creek Tank on the left. Here, the road bends to the left and dies out. The trail continues, crossing normally dry Turkey Creek and beginning a gradual climb in the sparse shade of pinyon pine and juniper. At 2.25 miles, it begins a moderately steep switchback ascent of the north face of House Mountain, a long extinct shield volcano. There are fine views of nearby red rock formations as well as more distant vistas north toward Wilson and Secret Mountains. The trail reaches the crest at nearly 3 miles and begins a gradual descent over basaltic lava. Soon the view over the ancient, heavily eroded caldera opens up and the opposite rim, dominated by the lava outcrop which gave the mountain its name, is visible. The trail continues, but this is a good stopping point. Return by the same route for a 6 mile roundtrip hike. This hike can be very hot in summer. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking | 34.809596, -111.817799 |
| Vultee Arch Trail No. 22 | Open | The road to Vultee Arch Trail is very primitive and suitable for high-clearance vehicles only. An easy hike along the bottom of Sterling Canyon. The drainage is dry most of the year. Shade is available, but it would be wise to carry some water in the warm months. The signed trailhead is on the east side of the parking area. The well maintained trail almost immediately enters Wilderness and climbs gradually in the shade of Arizona cypress beside a dry stream bed on the floor of Sterling Canyon. There are occasional views of red rock formations to the left and of the sheer walls of Lost Wilson Mountain on the right. After 0.75 miles, the trail enters stands of ponderosa pine and oak which show the scars from the 1996 "Arch" fire. Nearing the 1.75 mile point, there is a marked fork. Sterling Pass Trail branches off to the right. Keep left and continue 100 yards where the trail ends at a large red rock outcrop. There are nice views of the canyon, mountains and of Vultee Arch, about 0.25 miles the north. The trail dead ends at a bronze plaque placed in memorium of Gerard and Sylvia Vultee who lost their lives in an aircraft crash on January 29, 1938. The actual crash site is more than a mile north and at a much higher elevation, on East Picket Mesa. On the north side of the canyon across from the plaque is the sandstone arch named for Vultee, an early aircraft designer from California. Just before the plaque site there is a junction with the Sterling Pass Trail which continues over into Oak Creek Canyon. Uses: Day Hiking | 34.937106, -111.794187 |
| Walker Basin Trail No. 82 | Open | There's a classic western landscape waiting for you along this trail, with broad panoramas on the horizon and a collection of bluff-rimmed basins, basalt buttes, rocky canyons and lots of cactus covered desert closer at hand. Once used mainly to move livestock between seasonal pastures, the Walker Basin Trail now provides forest visitors with an access route into this land of big skies and expansive views. A short distance from the upper trailhead, the panorama unfolds like a gigantic mural painted on the sky. Prominent on the horizon are the San Francisco Peaks, with the northern Arizona rim country stretching out at their feet. Wet Beaver Creek and Woods Canyons are obvious as jagged rifts in this otherwise flat plateau. Off to the west, the sculptured buttes and pinnacles of Sedona Red Rock Country are plainly visible. The route leads from one forest road to another as it drops off the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau. For the best views you'll want to start from the upper end and walk downhill. That way you'll always be facing the broadest overlooks. From the trailhead, the route follows a rough jeep track through an old juniper push. Here the trees have been removed to promote grass growth for grazing. The trail quickly enters the trees, however, and wanders into Walker Basin, a forested depression rimmed by volcanic cliffs. The trail then gradually descends from the basin into a desert canyonscape of red rock cliffs, volcanic buttes, and prickly pear cactus. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.651914, -111.705492 |
| White Mesa Trail No. 86 | Open | Established in 1984, the Wet Beaver Wilderness encompasses much of the Wet Beaver Creek and surrounding canyons. A perennially flowing stream in a desert environment, Wet Beaver Creek offers a unique and precious habitat for wildlife and plants. Closer to the creek, cottonwoods and sycamores dominate. As you traverse farther up the canyon walls, these give way to junipers, prickly pear cacti, mesquite, and catclaw before opening up to grassy plateaus with scenic views. Or, if you decide to travel in the depths of the canyon, a number of coldwater pools stretch between canyon walls of sandstone, shale, and, in some sections, basalt. Whether you ascend the plateaus, navigate the canyon floors, or enjoy a mild hike to a favorite swimming spot or viewpoint, the Wet Beaver Wilderness has plentiful opportunities for solitude and unconfined recreation. Wilderness areas are rare, wild places set aside by Congress where the land is allowed to retain its natural state, serving as a natural haven for humans to escape modern civilization and for nature to be itself. To help minimize human impacts in wilderness and maintain its character, several laws and regulations have been put in place and we ask that visitors practice Leave No Trace ethics. Most visitors spend their time in the wilderness's lower, more accessible areas, such as the first several miles of the Bell Trail. Hiking, fishing, swimming, wildlife viewing, and running are popular forms of recreation for this area. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.673752, -111.71332 |
| Wier Trail No. 85 | Open | The Wier Trail branches off the Bell Trail at the Wet Beaver Wilderness boundary, roughly 2.7 miles from the Bell Trailhead. From the junction, the trail drops to nearly creek level, where one can see the USGS creek gauging station. This station is used to record important stream-flow information; please do not climb on the structure or tamper with the equipment. The vegetation found near the junction of the Bell Trail and Wier Trail is typical Upper Sonoran species: prickly pear, agave, catclaw and juniper. Once the trail reaches the creek the vegetation changes dramatically. The Upper Sonoran species are replaced by riparian vegetation consisting of Arizona black walnut, willow, ash, sycamore, cottonwood, canyon grape, blackberries, and poison ivy (learn to identify and avoid this three-leaved plant). The numerous deep pools in the creek contain introduced trout and bass, and the native round-tail chub. The trail continues upstream, with mild inclines and declines as it follows the contour of the canyon, and ends at a large cobbled area where the creek comes in from the northeast. Wilderness areas are rare, wild places set aside by Congress where the land is allowed to retain its natural state, serving as a natural haven for humans to escape modern civilization and for nature to be itself. To help minimize human impacts in wilderness and maintain its character, several laws and regulations have been put in place and we ask that visitors practice Leave No Trace ethics. In order to protect this fragile desert riparian area, campfires and camping are prohibited along much of the Wet Beaver Creek to help minimize damage to soil and vegetation, reduce disturbances to wildlife, and prevent pollution of the creek. Wet Beaver Creek flows into the Verde River, a critical water source for many cities and communities in Arizona. Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding | 34.673752, -111.71332 |
| Yavapai Vista | Open | Yavapai Vista Trail is a 0.5 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Sedona, Arizona that offers scenic views. The trail is good for all skill levels and primarily used for hiking, walking, and nature trips. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Uses: Day Hiking | 34.807295, -111.767686 |