Chandler, AZ 85224, USA
(33.8718575, -111.27563819999999)
Arizona's national forests form a mosaic of high plateaus, forested mountains, deep canyons and desert transition zones that are essential for regional recreation, water supply, geology studies. This guide focuses on the outdoor opportunities, terrain and climate contrasts that make forests such as Coconino National Forest, Tonto National Forest, Kaibab National Forest and the Apache‑Sitgreaves National Forests distinct. The text assumes familiarity with backcountry travel, route planning and basic ecology so readers will find practical detail on terrain, trails, seasonal hazards and species.
Geography
Arizona forests occupy sharp elevation gradients that control climate, soil and geomorphology, producing distinct recreation environments. The forests span from low-elevation pine‑oak woodlands to alpine tundra near volcanic peaks, and elevation dictates route choice, water availability and seasonality. Understanding regional geology is critical for route planning because rock type influences trail stability, exposures, climb quality.
Plateaus
The Mogollon Rim forms a continuous escarpment that separates high plateaus from the lower deserts, with extensive Ponderosa stands along the rim. The rim's sandstone and volcanic caprocks create rugged cliffs, persistent springs in pockets of sandstone and dramatic vertical relief that affects trail grades and wildfire behavior. Expect steep dropoffs and quick microclimate shifts when crossing the rim from the desert side toward Coconino National Forest.
Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 6 h 5 min to complete. This trail is great for hiking and running, and it's unlikely you'll ...
... Colorado. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 44 min to complete. This trail is great for camping and hiking ...
It's almost flat all the way, so it's suitable for hiking, running, and mountain biking. You will walk on a well-maintained and well-marked path along a wide- ...
There was a lake off-trail down in the valley somewhat soon after getting up on the plateau, but it would have been a hike to get there. It looked beautiful ...
Experience this 7.1-mile loop trail near Boulder, Colorado. ... When is the best time of year to hike Flatirons Vista, Community Ditch, and Greenbelt Plateau Loop ...
Long hike with good views of the flatirons. The first 4.1 miles there are no trees. The rest of the hike there are intermittent trees where you can stop for ...
Sep 6, 2025 ... ... Colorado Plateau and its sandstone cliffs, as well as the Colorado River. ... Hiking. Show activity. Avatar of Doug Garrick. Doug Garrick. Apr ...
... backpacking, camping, and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are March through May.
The trail about .6 of the way up just goes through some brush, honestly I would bother going further than the plateau, however we did hike up to the arch after ...
It's a fun and beautiful hike and caution should be exercised when hiking back down to avoid falls. ... plateau. Wildflowers and cute little lizards. Photo ...
Volcanic Peaks
The San Francisco Peaks near Flagstaff are remnants of a stratovolcano that produce volcanic soils, steep lava flows and cratered ridgelines. These peaks sustain subalpine communities above 3,000 meters and offer technical snow travel in winter with glacial cirque features that influence route choice. Snowpack persistence and wind-scoured snow cornices are common on ridgelines near San Francisco Peaks.
Description Suggest change. The famed San Francisco Peaks are a southwestern icon, spiritual home of the Kachinas, a sacred site to over thirteen different ...
From the lower trailhead, follow the trail roughly 2 miles to the third switchback after the lower trail register. The trail has almost always been tracked by ...
Aug 18, 2015 ... Leavitt Peak is nice from HWY 108 with other Sonora Pass area peaks nearby if looking to hike more. Round Top is nice from HWY 88 with many ...
Definitely an amazing peak, my favorite in the San Francisco Peaks. We started off of Freidlund Prairie Road and met up with the Weatherford Trail. We didn ...
It has one of the most scenic viewpoints in the San Francisco Peaks, and on a clear day, hikers can see the Grand Canyon from the summit. This strenuous rocky ...
The Peaks Crag has engaging traditional gear routes interspersed with thoughtful sport lines. There are very few routes here under 5.9.
It only grows here. It is not found on the other San Francisco Peaks. Climbing is off limits during Summer, but is a relatively easy Winter climb, when the ...
Some parts of the climb might be 2+. After you Climb Aubinaeu continue north down the along the long connecting ridge up Humphreys Peak. This part of the ...
There are many mountains over 6.000 m, but also very interesting 5.000 summits, e.g. the dos Conos at the Paso de San Francisco. The few of these mountains have ...
San Francisco Peaks Alpine Information: San Francisco Peaks Groundsel Vs. Alpine Avens : SummitPost.org : Climbing, hiking, mountaineering.
Canyon Systems
River incision has carved deep canyons through plateaus, producing narrow riparian corridors with unique microclimates distinct from the surrounding woodlands. The geology ranges from sandstone slot canyons to limestone gorges with talus slopes, and these corridors often supply reliable water sources critical for multi-day trips. Canyons concentrate hazards such as flash floods and rockfall, especially below steep cliffs.
Oak Creek Trail is considered an easy hike that covers 1.4 mi, with an elevation gain of 45 ft. It takes about 0.5–1 hr to complete. Easy trails are typically ...
Ignore some of the earlier reviews that say this is easy, they are referring to the first mile or so of the trail in the lower canyon. Do not attempt to get to ...
Hiking up Oak Creek's west fork offers one of the best outdoor experiences in Sedona, an area already known as a hiker's paradise. The steep canyon walls and ...
Try this 1.9-mile out-and-back trail near Blue Diamond, Nevada. Generally considered an easy route. This is a popular trail for birding, hiking, and walking.
The trail is relatively easy for the first three miles or so, and once you start up the canyon to the rock fall, it gradually becomes harder. From the rock fall ...
Los Robles Trail Via Oak Creek Canyon Trail is an out-and-back trail that covers 2.9 mi, with an elevation gain of 524 ft. It takes about 1.5–2 hr to complete.
Sep 16, 2025 ... Oak Creek Canyon Loop is a loop trail that covers 1 mi, with an elevation gain of 173 ft. It takes about 0.5–1 hr to complete. Loop trails have ...
Experience this 11.0-mile out-and-back trail near Naches, Washington. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 6 h 12 min to complete.
North Oak Creek Trail is an out-and-back trail that covers 3.8 mi, with an elevation gain of 396 ft. It takes about 1.5–2 hr to complete. Out-and-back trails ...
Middle Oak Creek Trail is a loop trail that covers 4.8 mi, with an elevation gain of 524 ft. It takes about 2–2.5 hr to complete. Loop trails have the same ...
Sky Islands
The isolated mountain ranges of southeast Arizona create "sky island" habitats where forested peaks rise from desert basins, producing steep thermal and moisture gradients over short distances. These islands support species assemblages not found in adjacent lowlands, and they are focal points for long cross-country ridge routes, alpine scrambling and seasonal bird migration studies. Rapid weather change is typical on these isolated peaks.
This is a popular trail for backpacking and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The trail is open year-round and is ...
Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 5 h 21 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking and walking, so you'll likely ...
... hiking, and horseback riding, so you'll likely ... Used this trail to get my “I hike for health” badge from the Chiricahua National Monument folks.
... hiking, and horseback riding, but you can still enjoy some solitude during ... Chiricahua National Monument. Download the route. Never miss a turn, even ...
I would still 100% recommend doing this hike if you're interested in it. I would just make sure to wear pants to avoid getting scratched up by the bushes. The ...
The trail doesn't ever gain much elevation so no sweeping views of the Chiricahua, but a very pleasant, easy, family friendly hike for as long as you want to ...
... hiking poles are recommended. There is little to no shade along the ... The Grotto @ Chiricahua was an amazing hike. Photo 1 of 3. Photo 2 of 3. Photo ...
Along the way, hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the unique rock formations that characterize this region. This well-maintained ...
This is a great hike that will lead you through the heart of the Chiricahua Mountains. The hike starts out on the Mormon Ridge trail and follows it to its end.
... hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other ... Chiricahua Wilderness/; Johnson Peak Loop. Photo of Johnson Peak Loop in Chiricahua Wilderness ...
Recreation
Arizona forests support a broad suite of outdoor pursuits but are best known for hiking, mountain biking, technical climbing, backcountry skiing at high elevations and paddling on reservoir arms. Each activity requires attention to seasonal access, elevation effects and water logistics, and choice of route should reflect the local geology and wildfire history. Trail density varies widely between forests, so map reconnaissance and recent trail-condition reports are essential.
Hiking
Trails range from desert singletrack ascending mesa edges to alpine ridge walks with volcanic scree near San Francisco Peaks. Route surfaces reflect underlying geology—sandstone yields steep eroded tread while volcanic basalt often produces loose talus—so hiking footwear choice matters for traction and ankle support. Water availability is often the limiting factor on longer hikes; plan resupply points carefully.
Discover this 4.8-mile out-and-back trail near Flagstaff, Arizona. Generally ... This trail is great for hiking, mountain biking, and running, and it's ...
Dogs are not allowed on the Boy Scouts Trail. Hikers, please be advised that you may not be able to complete this entire hike with a dog. There are a number of ...
Beautiful hike with amazing views, can be challenging due to elevation other hikers recommended hiking poles. ... Try this 7.1-mile loop trail near Flagstaff, ...
... Hiking. Easy to parkNot crowdedGreat conditionsGreat views. Challenging climb up, amazing views, walked around the rim of the cone, one of my hikes in flagstaff ...
Great hike! Wonderful views! Pay no attention to the grumpsters! Photo 1 of 6. Photo 2 of 6. Photo ...
This trail is great for birding and hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some ...
Try this 7.4-mile loop trail near Flagstaff, Arizona. Generally considered a ... This trail is great for hiking and running, and it's unlikely you'll ...
Head out on this 7.5-mile out-and-back trail near Flagstaff, Arizona ... This is a popular trail for hiking and running, but you can still enjoy some ...
... Hiking. Easy to parkNot crowdedGreat conditions. Prettiest trail in Flagstaff. I've done it a handful of times and have never seen anyone on the trail. Photo ...
... Hiking. Running. Walking. Forests. Reviews. 4.6. 704 reviews 1,209 ... Little America Loop [PRIVATE PROPERTY] is a trail located in Flagstaff, Arizona.
Mountain Biking
Fire roads and purpose-built singletrack are concentrated in accessible forests such as Tonto National Forest, where elevation gives riders respite from desert heat and offers sustained descents on volcanic and granitic substrates. Trail surface and drainage patterns tied to soil type determine seasonal usability; many trails become rutted after monsoon storms and require maintenance. Technical rocky sections demand bike handling skills and attention to braking on steep grades.
Jan 13, 2015 ... Sedona, Arizona is a land of fabled mountain bike trails and beauty. It's so fantastic, in fact, that several of our writers lobbied hard so that it would make ...
Jan 14, 2015 ... Greg has been mountain biking since 2005. His passion for exploring new trails has taken him around the world several times — he's ridden over ...
Jan 16, 2015 ... And it–along with all of the other very best mountain bike-legal trails in Sedona–began life as a hush-hush pirate trail. IMG_0066-sed-3. The ...
This ride is a great compliment to the Chuckwagon - Mescal - Long Canyon Loop, and can be pieced together with that for one long loop or ridden separately of ...
Feb 3, 2014 ... Having ridden most of North America's great mountain biking destinations, I find it hard to answer when someone asks me which is my favorite ...
Jan 15, 2015 ... While I'd already been impressed with Sedona mountain biking, Hiline solidified the epicness and grandeur of this destination in my mind ...
Dec 5, 2018 ... Roam Bike Fest West brings women together to mountain bike and party down in Sedona, Arizona.
Mar 10, 2025 ... Local builders have just opened a new trail, and it's tougher than any legal line that previously existed Sedona. Known as “Hardline,” Sedona's newest addition ...
The trail climbs up to a saddle bisecting two large red rock formations rising out of the canyon, then continues along a knife edge right around the side of ...
The trail tops out and then travels toward Mescal Mountain, a gigantic red sandstone butte. The meat of the route is a traverse on the southern side along a ...
Rock Climbing
Exposed cliffs in areas like the volcanic necks near Sedona and granite outcrops on the Mogollon Rim provide both sport and traditional routes with varied protection options. Rock quality is site specific—some sandstone faces are friable after heavy rains while basalt and granite offer solid protection but can hold slick lichen. Anchor assessment and route reconnaissance are essential because geology controls both friction and bolt placement suitability.
Oak Creek Canyon holds a myriad of side canyons and drainages. There is staggering amount of stone, climbing, exploration, and adventure to be had right off ...
There are a number of good boulders that can be reached from the Oak Creek trailhead. Some are found within the canyon itself, but many are also found on the ...
This is one of the most beautiful canyons in Red Rock. The ultra-classic Solar Slab is near the mouth of the canyon. This is actually a huge buttress.
This somewhat broken down, columnar basalt area features a multitude of moderate trad routes, with only a few test pieces.
From the saddle, head up the left side on class 2-3 terrain and ultimately work your way to the summit. It's less than 10 minutes from the saddle and difficult ...
Over the course of some thirty five years, The Oak Creek Canyon Waterfall ... climbing in the country. This broad columnar basalt amphitheater is ...
Oak Creek Canyon has fantastic climbing in the northern Wet Mountains, 9 miles south of Canon City. It is a fun alternative to Shelf Road, with far more ...
The Oak Creek Spire area includes the spires and routes just north of the Pine Valley Estates area at the east end of Jacks Canyon Road (Oak Creek Village).
rock climbing experience would be nice. Most of the trail consists of 2 or 3 thousand vertical feet of boulder hopping. It will be slow going as you will need ...
Classic Climbing Routes at Oak Creek Drainages. Mountain Project's determination of the classic, most popular, highest rated climbing routes in this area. 5.11 ...
Backcountry Skiing
At the highest elevations of Kaibab National Forest and near the San Francisco Peaks, winter conditions allow for short alpine touring and descent runs, with snowpack persistence determined by elevation and wind transport. Slope aspect is crucial; north-facing chutes preserve snow longer while southern exposures crust quickly under sun, affecting skiability. Avalanche risk exists on steep lee slopes after heavy storms; users should carry standard avalanche safety gear where terrain warrants.
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Kayaking and Paddle
Reservoir arms in forest boundaries, such as those on Tonto National Forest, offer paddling on sheltered waters with canyon backdrops and geologic cliffs. Wind and diurnal thermal effects can create challenging chop late in the day, and reservoir drawdown exposes talus and submerged logs that affect route selection near shorelines. Plan launches and takeouts based on posted access points to avoid steep, unstable banks.
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Forest Types
Arizona's forests display a sequence of communities from desert scrub to subalpine woodlands that correlate strongly with elevation, aspect and substrate. Vegetation patterns reflect climate gradients, with species composition shifting predictably across the state; these assemblages inform trail ecology, fuel models and wildlife habitat. Recognizing dominant cover types aids route choice and seasonal hazard assessment.
Ponderosa Pine Stands
Extensive Ponderosa forests dominate mid‑elevations on the Mogollon Rim and around Flagstaff, with open, park-like understories in many stands that influence fire behavior. Trees are typically Ponderosa pine Pinus ponderosa, with a grassy to shrubby understory that supports long sightlines for navigation. Fuel continuity can be high where understory density increases after fire suppression, raising wildfire risk.
Ponderosa Park Trails is considered an easy hike that covers 1.2 mi, with an elevation gain of 42 ft. It takes about 0.5–1 hr to complete. Easy trails are ...
Ponderosa Trail #382 is considered a moderate hike that covers 3.2 mi, with an elevation gain of 456 ft. It takes about 1.5–2 hr to complete. Moderate trails ...
... Hiking. Easy to parkNot crowdedDog-friendlyGreat conditionsGreat views. Great loop and connecting trails. Good for hiking, bicycling and birding. Conditions ...
... Play. Dogs on leash. Kid-friendly. Birding. Hiking. Running. Walking. Forests. Views. Wildflowers. Wildlife. Reviews. 4.7. 893 reviews 1,458 activities. 5. 4. 3.
Ponderosa Loop Trail is considered an easy hike that covers 2 mi, with an elevation gain of 403 ft. It takes about 1–1.5 hr to complete. Easy trails are ...
Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 50 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking and running, but you can still enjoy some ...
Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 38 min to complete. This trail is great for birding, fishing, and walking, and it's unlikely you'll ...
The Ponderosa Trail starts directly across from the picnic area on the Loop Road and climbs - through one long and one short switchback - to its end at Tower ...
... Hiking. Easy to parkNot crowdedBathrooms availableGreat conditions. This loop is the Ponderosa to sisters Trail connect with the brother trail and finally ...
Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 48 min to complete. This trail is great for hiking, mountain biking, and running ...
Mixed Conifer Zones
Higher elevations support mixed conifer assemblages including Douglas fir Pseudotsuga menziesii and aspen Populus tremuloides, forming cooler, moister pockets ideal for backcountry camping and spring snow retention. These zones often sit on volcanic soils with strong water retention properties, creating microclimates that sustain springs and small wet meadows. Trail erosion can be severe on saturated soils after melt or heavy rain.
Hikers will enjoy a moderate hike through a mixed conifer forest, with views of the Sacramento Mountains and the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site. The trail is ...
The trail then climbs slightly through aspen groves and mixed conifer forest ... Backpacking trails are typically longer and are often point-to-point trails.
... Hiking. First to review. Hike through mixed conifer forest looking for dogwoods. We were a little too early for blooms, but enjoyed the solitude and easy ...
This short trail winds through a mixed conifer forest, then over a saddle ... This is a popular trail for hiking and running, but you can still enjoy ...
... hike, as there is a considerable amount of elevation gain from the trailhead to the summit. The trail passes through a mixed conifer forest, which is a ...
This is a pleasant ascent up Bill Williams Mountain, starting through conifer forest and climbing to mixed conifer and aspen forests, with views at the ...
... mixed-conifer forest for 0.7 miles (1 km) on a paved path, and cross Porcupine Creek. At each of several trail junctions, follow the signs toward North Dome ...
As of early May '22 you will get your feet wet, up to mid-calf with many crossings. Bring a hiking pole and enjoy. The mixed-ponderosa forest in the canyon is ...
... trail. You'll cross the creek and finish by traveling along the historic Pioneer Trail. This loop is mostly shaded, taking you through mixed conifer forest ...
A varied trip through recovering forests and mixed conifer woods featuring ... Dog friendly. Avatar of Los Alamos Trails. Los Alamos Trails. Aug 20, 2020•Hiking.
Pine Oak Woodlands
Lower montane slopes and transition zones frequently feature pinyon‑juniper and oak blends where Gambel oak Quercus gambelii and pinyon pine Pinus edulis form dense shrub layers. These woodlands produce steep, brushy terrain with limited soil depth over bedrock, affecting boot traction and bike line choice. Vegetation density increases heat stress in summer and reduces day-use comfort, shifting peak season activity to spring and fall.
Pin Oak Trail is considered an easy hike that covers 0.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 19 ft. It takes about 0.5–1 hr to complete. Easy trails are typically ...
Pin Oak Trail is considered a moderate hike that covers 2.2 mi, with an elevation gain of 167 ft. It takes about 0.5–1 hr to complete. Moderate trails often ...
Hiked the Pretty Hollow to Balsam loop usually done on horseback or a 2-3 day hike with camping. Beautiful trail, didn't see anyone in the 8 hours it took to do ...
Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 52 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking, horseback riding, and ...
... trails open to hikers, trail runners, and leashed dogs in the area, but you have to use some of the paved park roads to connect the sections of trail to ...
This scenic route begins at the Pine Trailhead and follows the Oak Spring Trail before connecting with the Arizona Trail and continuing to Bradshaw Tank, ...
This route starts at Balsam Mountain and leads to Gunter Fork and Big Creek. It is a technical hike with difficult river crossings at points.
Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 31 min to complete. This is a popular trail for birding, hiking, and running, but you can still enjoy ...
Head out on this 3.7-mile out-and-back trail near Hurricane, Utah. Generally considered a challenging route. This trail is great for hiking.
Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 46 min to complete. This trail is great for hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other ...
Riparian Corridors
Riparian strips along perennial streams host sycamores, cottonwoods and native willows, creating cool, humid microhabitats within otherwise dry forests and acting as critical wildlife corridors. Species such as Arizona sycamore Platanus wrightii indicate reliable groundwater or spring flow, and these areas are natural rest points for multi-day routes. Riparian crossings require reconnaissance for seasonal flow and potential flash flooding.
Riparian Trail begins after taking Bur Oak Trail, a connector trail. Riparian Trail is a loop that is on the river bottom of the Big Sioux River. This trail is ...
Oak Riparian Loop Trail is considered an easy hike that covers 1.5 mi, with an elevation gain of 95 ft. It takes about 0.5–1 hr to complete. Easy trails are ...
Locust Creek Riparian Trail is considered a moderate hike that covers 7.9 mi, with an elevation gain of 36 ft. It takes about 2–2.5 hr to complete. Moderate ...
... Riparian Trail. Photo of Riparian Trail in Rifle Falls State Fish Hatchery ... This trail is great for hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other ...
The hike starts beside a creek bordered by oak trees. You'll hike beneath the enormous canopies of living oak trees as you cross the creek.
Well traveled trail the circles Lake Post and parallels a watershed area in the heart of Chesterfield.
The Riparian Preserve is an urban park with a series of loop trails surrounding seven ponds stocked with fish and birds.
Very family and pet friendly. ... A great gem, close to home. Dog and kid friendly . My 4 year old grandson has no issues walking the 2 miles. ... Perfect hike with ...
This is a hiking trail in Good Earth State Park. It has views of the Big Sioux River, Oak Forest, wildflowers, and Prairie grass. This hike combines ...
Great area to do as many or few miles as you like, and the up and down trails almost map out like a heartbeat! Mixed trail for bikers, runners, and hikers.
Trails
Trail networks in Arizona forests range from densely built systems near urban interfaces to remote cross-country routes across lava fields and rim edges. Trail characteristics follow underlying geology—abrasive sandstone, loose talus, smooth basalt—so route descriptions should reference substrate when advising traction or protective equipment. Topo reading and map accuracy are essential because erosion can alter mileage and grade quickly.
Maintained Trail Systems
Near trailheads at Sedona, Flagstaff and around Payson, maintained systems provide clear signage, graded tread and bridge crossings, supporting high-use day trips and technical loops. These trails often cross varied substrates and may include rock steps, installed drainage features and hardened switchbacks. Trailhead capacity and parking can limit early-season starts; plan accordingly.
McCabe Forest is considered an easy hike that covers 1.8 mi, with an elevation gain of 65 ft. It takes about 0.5–1 hr to complete. Easy trails are typically ...
This trail is great for birding, cross-country skiing, and hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. The trail is open year- ...
... Hike East Loop. Photo of Day Hike East Loop in Shawnee State Forest ... Hiking. Running. Forests. Views. Wildflowers. Wildlife. Reviews. 4.4. 135 reviews 188 ...
Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 19 min to complete. This trail is great for backpacking, camping, and hiking, ...
... © OpenStreetMap. Play. Dogs on leash. Birding. Hiking. Walking. Backpacking. Beaches. Forests. Rivers. Views. Wildlife. Reviews. 4.3. 104 reviews 135 activities ...
... Play. Dogs on leash. Hiking. Snowshoeing. Backpacking. Forests. Lakes. Rivers. Views. Wildflowers. Wildlife. Reviews. 4.8. 821 reviews 1,326 activities. 5. 4. 3.
This is a great forest hike on forest fire trails that are fairly wide and tend to be not overgrown. There are connecting trails between the fire lanes too.
Twisted Forest is considered a moderate hike that covers 0.9 mi, with an elevation gain of 314 ft. It takes about 0.5–1 hr to complete. Moderate trails often ...
Park closer to that trail unless you like steep hikes to the view tower. I would have given 5 stars but I like single-track type trails and my route today ...
... © OpenStreetMap. Play. Dogs on leash. Camping. Hiking. Snowshoeing. Running. Backpacking. Caves. Forests. Views. Wildlife. Reviews. 4.8. 226 reviews 347 ...
Remote Routes
Backcountry routes across the Kaibab Plateau and the eastern Apache‑Sitgreaves districts offer long ridge traverses and canyon-inserted navigation with little signage, requiring reliable map, compass and GPS skills. Surface conditions vary from compact volcanic cinders to loose sandy sections that slow progress and increase pack wear. Water planning is critical on remote routes where natural sources are intermittent.
Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 5 h 24 min to complete. This is a popular trail for backpacking, fishing, and hiking, but you ...
Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 51 min to complete. This trail is great for hiking and walking, and it's unlikely ...
Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 26 min to complete. This trail is great for hiking, and it's unlikely you'll ...
Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 18 min to complete. This trail is great for birding, camping, and hiking, and ...
Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 423 h 7 min to complete. This trail is great for off-road driving and walking, and ...
If you like hiking thru a green tunnel, fording a ice cold river (very slippery rocks) and walking a service road. This trails for you.!! Only highlight was ...
... Hikers Beach. Past the first kilometre of hiking, trails are considered backcountry and dogs may be off-leash if behaved. It's a long but a relatively flat ...
This route features a unique hiking experience with gorgeous views. Though backpackers hike the trail most frequently, it is also open to visitors who want a ...
Keep in mind that there are many steep sections with heavy elevation gain, making this route quite challenging and it is recommended for experienced hikers.
Def wear hiking boots. Pants for protection while bush whacking. Take a map! Well marked trail heads but I imagine hurricane damage has removed a lot Of blazing ...
Technical Scrambles
Granite faces, volcanic columns and rim escarpments create short technical scrambles and low‑grade climbs that often sit outside formal climbing areas; route steepness and rock quality vary with geology. These scrambles provide ridge access and viewpoint exposure but may require route-finding around talus fields and cliffs. Helmet use is recommended where rockfall potential exists.
- Can be hiked with running shoes/trail runners. Proper hiking shoes not required. - No shade after the first few miles — hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are a ...
Some technical sections of terrain feature loose rock and scrambling down or up boulders. It is suggested to bring plenty of water because most of the route ...
Feb 21, 2010 ... Can anyone recommend a Class 3/easy Class 4 scramble in Red Rocks that I can do in 4 or 5 hours by myself?
There are some technical rock scrambles from the two mile mark onwards. ... It's a gradual climb up with some easy rock scrambles. I would definitely ...
This trail offers a lot of enjoyable slick rock hiking, along with a few easy climbing sections. Be cautious when tackling the two most challenging parts of ...
This is a fantastic hike to the base of this iconic rock formation. Trail is easy to follow except for one section hiking up to the base. Photo 1 of 4. Photo 2 ...
It is the South Central Rib of Courthouse Butte. Lspade's comment is correct: over 90% is scrambling and 4th class, making it a adventure to take someone new to ...
Dinosaur Mountain is a small peak that offers an hour or so of fun scrambling and interesting views. And, of course, there's the name.
This is the premier climb in the Phoenix area. It consists of both easy trail and class 3 scrambling up a scree filled collier.
Jul 10, 2014 ... Habicht (3200m+) is apparently good - same area but further south, with a 900m or so scrambly climb (some snow) above the Innsbrucker Huette.
Trail Seasonality
Trail conditions change rapidly with monsoon season and winter storms; lower trails can become impassable due to summer washouts while high trails may be snowbound into late spring. Elevation gain drives season window: trails above 2,500 meters retain snow much longer than those below 1,500 meters. Check local seasonal advisories and route reports before planning trips.
... Closure: Due to hazardous heat, annual seasonal trail closures are in effect. ... When is the best time of year to hike Arizona (Ringbolt) Hot Springs via White ...
... seasons as well as during fire closures or if there are current or recent fires in the area. Road closures can be checked on the Coconino National Forest
... season because of losses resulting from the Dragon Bravo Wildfire. For more ... This affects anyone hiking the standard Rim-to-Rim trail. For more ...
Trail access was closed from the trailhead at Hwy 93, but accessible from the river. If attempting this hike… TAKE LOTS OF WATER, lots of breaks, and be safe…
Did this hike over 3 days and 2 nights. Went from south trailhead to bright angel camp (day 1), bright angel to cottonwood (day 2) and cottonwood to north rim ( ...
... closed at this trailhead from Thursday to Sunday, year-round, while the ... If you're ever hiking in Sedona, be sure to add this trail to your list! To ...
Trail access was closed from the trailhead at Hwy 93, but accessible from the river. If attempting this hike… TAKE LOTS OF WATER, lots of breaks, and be safe…
the way back to the trailhead is torturous with pretty steady incline. it's not for the faint of heart. DO NOT hike this in flip flops or sandals. not a bad ...
... hiking season is from mid-May to mid-October. In the summertime, you will want to do this ... trail/us/arizona/south-to-north-kaibab-trail.
Seasonal road closure: Roads leading to this trailhead are subject to seasonal closure. For more information, please visit ...
Visiting
Access, permits and local regulations differ across national forests, and proximity to towns like Flagstaff, Payson, Show Low creates different logistical options for resupply and emergency services. Seasonal considerations—monsoon storms, winter snow, wildfire closures—dictate trip windows and gear lists, and advanced planning is essential for safety and minimal impact travel.
Trailheads and Access
Major trailheads near towns such as Flagstaff and Sedona are well marked with parking, vault toilets and interpretive signs, while backcountry access points on the Kaibab Plateau require four‑wheel‑drive or long approach hikes. Access roads reflect geology—sandy washes on softer substrates can become impassable after rain while compact lava roads may remain passable. Vehicle choice and read-ahead on current road conditions are important.
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Permits and Regulations
Certain areas require wilderness permits or recreation passes for overnight stays, campfire use or group size limits, and restrictions often aim to protect riparian zones and fragile alpine meadows. Fire restrictions change seasonally with drought levels and fuel moisture, so assume campfires may be prohibited during most of the dry season. Consult local forest ranger offices for real-time rules.
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Safety and Hazards
Wildfire, sudden weather shifts, extreme heat at low elevations and persistent winter snow at high elevations are the principal hazards; geology influences each: steep canyon walls channel flash floods while talus slopes produce unstable footing. Carry layered clothing, ample water, route plans left with a contact and navigation gear appropriate to the terrain you will traverse. Respect geology-driven hazards to minimize objective risk.
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Local Towns
Towns bordering these forests offer unique access: Flagstaff acts as a higher-elevation base with extensive alpine services and scientific resources, Payson provides direct access to the Mogollon Rim for rim hikes, while small communities near the Apache‑Sitgreaves supply local intel and trail maps. Each town has distinct logistical strengths for resupply, gear rental and shuttle services for point-to-point routes. Use local ranger stations for up-to-date trail and closure information.
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Conservation and Management
Forest management balances recreation access, watershed protection and wildfire mitigation through thinning, prescribed burns and trail maintenance plans. The interplay of geology, vegetation and climate determines fuel models and restoration priorities, with targeted treatments focused on protecting key watersheds and recreation corridors. Adaptive management aims to preserve both ecological function and high-quality outdoor experiences.
Fuel Treatments
Thinning and prescribed fire regimes are applied selectively to reduce crown fire potential in Ponderosa stands and mixed conifer zones, often along ridgelines and around key trail corridors. Treatments alter understory composition and visibility, impacting both fire behavior and scenic character of popular routes. Expect temporary closures near treatment areas.
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Watershed Protection
Forest managers prioritize riparian stabilization, spring protection and sediment control where geology contributes to rapid runoff and bank erosion, particularly on steep volcanic slopes and sandstone cliffs. Protecting springs ensures long-term water availability for backcountry users and downstream communities alike. Projects often include hardened crossings and rerouted tread to minimize erosion.
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Visitor Impact
High-use corridors near urban gateways receive most pressure, producing trail braiding, campsite proliferation and vegetation loss, while remote areas suffer from dispersed impacts that are harder to monitor. Education campaigns focus on low-impact camping, route selection away from fragile soils and seasonal restrictions to protect sensitive flora. Adhering to Leave No Trace principles preserves both geological features and biological communities.
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