The best walks and hikes in Navajo County

Given the diverse environments, from exposed desert canyons to high-altitude forests, layering your clothing is key. Always carry more water than you think you'll need, especially in summer. Sun protection, including a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, is essential year-round. Sturdy hiking shoes are recommended for the often rocky and uneven terrain.

Yes, Navajo County has many options for families. The Giant Logs Loop — Petrified Forest National Park is a very short, accessible trail perfect for all ages, showcasing some of the largest fossilized trees. Another great choice is the Homolovi II Trail – Homolovi Ruins State Park, which is a flat, sub-mile walk exploring ancient Hopi pueblo sites.

Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant temperatures for hiking across the entire county. Summer can be extremely hot in the lower desert areas like Monument Valley and the Petrified Forest, so hikes should be planned for early morning. However, summer is a great time to explore the cooler, high-elevation trails in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests and along the Mogollon Rim.

Dog policies vary significantly. While trails in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests are generally dog-friendly, many areas within Tribal Parks and National Parks have strict restrictions. For example, pets are not permitted on most trails in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park or Petrified Forest National Park. Always check the specific regulations for the park or forest you plan to visit before bringing your dog.

The area around Show Low is known for its beautiful forest trails. The Show Low Creek Meadow Trailhead is a highly-regarded starting point for peaceful walks in the fresh air. For expansive views, the Mogollon Rim Trail is a local favorite, offering cooler temperatures and stunning scenery along the edge of the plateau.

Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous outing, the Keet Seel Trail – Navajo National Monument offers a significant challenge. This trail involves a considerable descent and ascent through a canyon to reach the impressive cliff dwellings. It's a demanding but rewarding experience for seasoned hikers.

It depends on where you go. Many trails in National Forests and State Parks are self-guided. However, access to sensitive cultural and natural areas often requires a guide. For instance, most of Canyon de Chelly National Monument's canyon floor is only accessible with an authorized Navajo guide. You can find more information on booking official tours on the National Park Service website. Always check requirements for your specific destination.

There are over 35 designated hiking routes in Navajo County, offering a wide variety of experiences. These range from short, easy nature walks of less than a mile to more demanding backcountry treks, ensuring there's a trail for every fitness and experience level.

The trails in Navajo County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the unique and dramatic scenery, from the iconic buttes of Monument Valley to the colorful petrified wood landscapes. The well-maintained and clearly marked paths in many of the parks are also a common point of positive feedback.

Yes, there are several excellent loop trails. For a moderate hike with varied scenery, the Camel Butte and Three Sisters loop provides great views of the famous rock formations. For an easier option, the Long Logs Trail loop is a fascinating walk through one of the densest concentrations of petrified wood in the park.

Navajo County offers incredibly diverse scenery. You can experience the world-famous crimson mesas and sandstone buttes of Monument Valley, the otherworldly badlands and fossilized trees of the Petrified Forest, the deep, sheer-walled red rock canyons of Canyon de Chelly, and the cool, green pine forests of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests.