The best walks and hikes in Navajo County

Embark on the Wildcat Trail, an easy 4.4-mile (7.1 km) hike that brings you directly onto the valley floor of Monument Valley. As you navigate the loop, you will gain 435 feet (133 metres) in elevation, offering close-up views of the famous Mitten Buttes and Merrick Butte. Expect to spend around 1 hour and 58 minutes immersed in this unique desert landscape, surrounded by towering rock formations and distinctive flora.

This route is the only self-guided hiking trail within Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, giving you independent access to its wonders. Be prepared for sections with deep, soft sand, which can make the return ascent more challenging. The trail also crosses several washes; these can become impassable after heavy rain, so check conditions before you go. Consider starting your hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best light and cooler temperatures.

The Wildcat Trail provides a rare opportunity to experience the geological grandeur of Monument Valley from a ground-level perspective. The landscape is constantly changing, especially with the shifting light, making it a photographer's delight. Remember that Monument Valley sits at an elevation of 4,838 feet above sea level, which can make physical activity feel more strenuous than usual.

Embark on the Four Springs Trail for an easy hiking experience through the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. This route spans 3.4 miles (5.5 km) and involves a gentle elevation gain of 128 feet (39 metres), making it a perfect choice for a quick outdoor escape. You can expect a peaceful journey, passing by the notable Fletcher Tank, which offers a serene spot to enjoy the wilderness atmosphere.

When planning your visit, you will find parking conveniently located near the trailhead, making access straightforward. The entire hike is estimated to take around 1 hour and 26 minutes, so it fits well into a morning or afternoon outing. Always remember to check local conditions before you head out, especially if you are visiting during different seasons, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

The trail's name hints at its unique feature: the possibility of discovering natural springs along the way, adding to its charm and connection to the local environment. This route provides a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in a quiet wilderness setting, offering a refreshing contrast to more strenuous hikes. It's a great option if you are looking for an accessible and tranquil natural experience in the region.

Embark on an easy hike along the Monument Valley Campground Lee Cly Trail, a 2.0 miles (3.2 km) route that offers intimate views of the iconic sandstone formations. You will gain 178 feet (54 metres) in elevation over an estimated 52 minutes, traversing red sand paths and rolling hills. As you hike, you'll encounter the towering presence of Mitchell Butte and Mitchell Mesa, providing a true taste of the desert landscape under wide-open skies.

Planning your visit to this trail is straightforward, as it is one of the few in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park that you can explore without a mandatory guide. The trailhead is conveniently located near The View Lodge and the Monument Valley campground, making access simple. Remember to bring plenty of water, adequate sun protection, and sturdy shoes, as the route has minimal shade and features uneven footing with some rocky stretches.

This trail provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the distinctive geology of Monument Valley, characterized by its dramatic sandstone buttes and mesas. It stands out as an accessible option for experiencing the park's renowned scenery firsthand. The route offers a personal exploration of the area's natural beauty, allowing you to appreciate the scale and atmosphere of this iconic landscape at your own pace.

Country Club Trail #632 offers an easy hike through varied landscapes, perfect for a relaxed outing. You will wander through peaceful ponderosa pine forests, eventually emerging into open meadows such as Whitcomb Pasture, where you might see cattle grazing. This pleasant route covers 3.3 miles (5.4 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 168 feet (51 metres), taking about 1 hour and 25 minutes to complete. It is an accessible path that provides a refreshing escape into nature.

Planning your visit to Country Club Trail #632 is straightforward, with parking generally available right at the trailhead for easy access. The path is well-marked with excellent signage, including tree tags and quarter-mile location markers, making navigation simple. Keep in mind that this is a popular multi-use trail, so you should expect to share the route with horse riders and mountain bikers, especially during the summer months. It is a great option for a quick outdoor activity without much fuss.

This trail holds a touch of history, as portions of the route follow an old railroad bed, adding an interesting element to your walk. The diverse terrain, from dense pine forests to open pastures, showcases the natural beauty of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. While easy, the trail provides a good opportunity to observe local wildlife and enjoy the quiet atmosphere of the White Mountains region.

Embark on an easy hike along the Woodland Lake Trail, a peaceful 1.3 miles (2.1 km) route that meanders through varied landscapes. You will experience fertile forests giving way to open meadows, offering glimpses of the natural beauty surrounding Woodland Lake. With a gentle elevation gain of just 35 feet (11 metres), this accessible path takes about 33 minutes to complete. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and the vibrant wildflowers that add splashes of color to your journey, especially when they are in bloom.

Planning your visit to Woodland Lake Trail is straightforward, as the route is generally accessible and makes for a great spontaneous outing. Parking is typically available directly at Woodland Lake Park, though arriving early during peak times is always a good idea to secure a spot. You can bring your leashed dog along, as the trail is dog-friendly, making it a perfect short escape for you and your canine companion. This easy path is suitable for most, offering a quick and refreshing outdoor experience without extensive preparation.

The Woodland Lake Trail is nestled within Woodland Lake Park, providing a serene natural setting ideal for a quick outdoor escape. The varied landscapes, from dense forests to open meadows, create a dynamic environment for observing local flora and fauna. This short and accessible route is a wonderful way to connect with nature, offering a peaceful respite from daily life right within the park's boundaries.

Embark on the Timber Mesa Trail for a moderate hike spanning 8.4 miles (13.6 km), where you will gain 613 feet (187 metres) in elevation over approximately 3 hours and 39 minutes. As you hike, the route skirts the edge of a mesa, offering expansive views of the surrounding lakes and forests. You will find yourself winding through shaded juniper and pine forests, with occasional clearings revealing areas of felled timber, providing a varied and engaging experience.

Accessing the trailhead is straightforward, as it is located near Pinetop-Lakeside and reachable via paved and cindered roads. The trail itself is generally well-marked, with clear signage at major junctions and blue diamond markers on pine trees to help guide your way. This makes planning your visit relatively simple, allowing you to focus on enjoying the natural beauty.

Beyond the scenic landscapes, the Timber Mesa Trail also offers a glimpse into Arizona's past. Along the route, you can discover historical remnants, including standing stone chimneys and a well-maintained log cabin. These features add a unique historical dimension to your outdoor adventure, setting this trail apart from others in the region.

Embark on an easy hike along the Fool Hollow Lake Trail, a gentle path that winds for 2.4 miles (3.8 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 45 feet (14 metres). You can expect to complete this pleasant journey in about 58 minutes. As you walk, you will enjoy serene views across Fool Hollow Lake, framed by the distinctive silhouettes of Ponderosa pine and shaggy juniper trees. The mostly flat, hard-packed gravel path makes for a comfortable stroll, perfect for a relaxed outdoor experience.

When planning your visit, be aware that the Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area charges an entry fee, so prepare accordingly. Parking is readily available within the recreation area, making access straightforward. Remember that the trail is not a loop, so you will need to retrace your steps back to your starting point. Leashed dogs are welcome to join you on this scenic route.

This trail offers excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting, with various bird species and deer frequently observed in the area. The tranquil setting of Fool Hollow Lake, surrounded by its natural forest, provides a peaceful escape. It is an ideal choice if you are looking for a straightforward, family-friendly outdoor activity that connects you with nature.

Embark on the Ghost of the Coyote Trail for a moderate hiking experience through the diverse landscapes of Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. This 5.3-mile (8.5 km) route, with an elevation gain of 466 feet (142 metres), guides you across old logging roads and winding single-track paths. You can expect to complete the hike in about 2 hours and 19 minutes, moving through open meadows and shaded forest sections. As you traverse the trail, keep an eye out for high desert flora like yucca and cacti, and enjoy panoramic views of the White Mountains, including the prominent Mount Baldy, from various vista points.

Planning your visit to the Ghost of the Coyote Trail is straightforward. You will find parking generally available at the trailheads, making access convenient for your hike. The route is clearly marked with white diamond blazes and quarter-mile location markers, ensuring easy navigation throughout your journey. Remember to check local conditions before heading out, especially for any seasonal changes that might affect your experience. This trail is also multi-use, welcoming mountain bikers and horseback riders alongside hikers.

This trail offers a unique glimpse into the recovery of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, showcasing areas that have regrown since the 2002 Rodeo-Chediski fire. The classic rangeland setting provides opportunities to spot local wildlife, such as javelina or even coyotes, adding to the natural immersion. It's a route that truly captures the essence of the region's high desert environment and its resilient ecosystem.

Embark on the Blue Ridge Trail Short Loop for an easy hike through varied terrain, where you can expect to wander through peaceful pine and oak forests. This route offers a refreshing escape into nature, potentially revealing views of surrounding mountains as you go. The entire loop covers 3.5 miles (5.7 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 399 feet (122 metres). You can comfortably complete this hike in about 1 hour and 36 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a quick outdoor adventure.

Accessing the trailhead for this loop is generally straightforward, as it's located within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. You will typically find parking available directly at the trailhead, making your start easy. Before you head out, always check the local forest service websites for any important alerts. These might include seasonal closures or current road conditions that could affect your visit. Currently, there are no specific warnings or permit requirements noted for this particular trail, but it's always wise to confirm.

This trail is part of the larger network within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, an area renowned for its natural beauty and diverse ecosystems. While specific unique features for this short loop are not detailed, trails in this region often showcase a blend of high-desert and forested landscapes. It provides a tranquil setting to connect with nature, away from urban distractions. Consider this loop if you are looking for a peaceful outdoor experience in a well-regarded national forest.