Sycamore Canyon Wilderness - Coconino NF
Dogie Trail #116 & Taylor Cabin Trail #35
Historic trails through Sycamore Canyon connecting rim country forests to the canyon bottom and historic homestead sites
Distance
~6 miles combined
Difficulty
Moderate
Elevation Change
~1,400 ft
Best Season
Mar-May, Sep-Nov
Route Overview
The Dogie Trail #116 and Taylor Cabin Trail #35 are two interconnected trails in Sycamore Canyon Wilderness that together provide access through the heart of this scenic canyon system. Both trails have roots in the area's ranching history - the "Dogie" name comes from the cowboy term for a motherless calf, reflecting the area's cattle-ranching past, while the Taylor Cabin Trail leads to a historic homestead cabin built by early settlers in Sycamore Canyon.
The Dogie Trail #116 follows a route along the canyon slopes, providing access between the upper canyon and the canyon bottom. The Taylor Cabin Trail #35 connects the rim area to the historic Taylor Cabin site near Sycamore Creek, passing through diverse vegetation zones and offering views of the canyon's red rock walls.
Together, these trails can be combined with the Kelsey Trail #3, Dorsey Spring Trail #7, and Parsons Trail #144 to create extended loop routes through Sycamore Canyon Wilderness - making this one of the most versatile trail systems in northern Arizona for both day hikes and multi-day backpacks.
Route Description
Dogie Trail #116
Trailhead: Accessed from Forest Road 231 or connecting trails in the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness system. The trailhead is in Coconino National Forest south of I-40 near Williams, AZ.
The Dogie Trail traverses the middle slopes of Sycamore Canyon, connecting upper rim trails with the canyon bottom. The route follows a moderate grade through mixed conifer and oak forest, with periodic openings that provide views into the canyon. The trail is well-defined but can have some rough sections with rocky tread and occasional fallen trees.
The name "Dogie" reflects the trail's history as a route used by ranchers to move cattle between summer grazing on the rim and winter range in the canyon bottom. Remnants of old stock driveways and fence lines can still be seen along portions of the route.
Taylor Cabin Trail #35
Trailhead: The Taylor Cabin Trail #35 begins at a trailhead accessible from Forest Road 231, similar to the other Sycamore Canyon Wilderness trails.
The Taylor Cabin Trail descends from the rim toward Sycamore Creek, passing through a classic northern Arizona vegetation sequence: ponderosa pine at the top, transitioning through Gambel oak and mountain mahogany, and reaching the canyon bottom where cottonwoods and sycamores line the creek. The trail is named for the historic Taylor Cabin, a stone structure built by early homesteaders near Sycamore Creek.
Taylor Cabin: The cabin is a remnant of the area's homesteading era. While the structure has been stabilized as a historic site, visitors are asked to respect the site and not disturb any artifacts or structural elements. The cabin sits near Sycamore Creek in a shady grove of cottonwoods - a pleasant rest stop on a hot day.
Permits & Regulations
Permit Required: No. No permits are required for day use or overnight camping in Sycamore Canyon Wilderness.
Camping: Dispersed camping is allowed following Coconino National Forest regulations. Camp at least 200 feet from water sources. The area near Taylor Cabin and along Sycamore Creek offers suitable campsites on sand and gravel bars.
Fires: Check current fire restrictions before your trip. Use established fire rings where available. During fire season, campfires may be prohibited - use a camp stove instead.
Historic Sites: The Taylor Cabin and other historic structures in Sycamore Canyon are protected. Do not disturb artifacts, write on structures, or remove any materials from historic sites.
Water & Conditions
- Water Sources: Sycamore Creek is the primary water source in the canyon bottom. Flow varies seasonally - strongest in spring from snowmelt and during monsoon season (July-September). In late summer and fall, the creek may be reduced to isolated pools. Carry water for the rim sections of the hike.
- Trail Conditions: These trails receive less maintenance than more popular trails in the system. Expect some rough tread, occasional blowdowns, and overgrown sections in places. Trail conditions are best in spring and fall.
- Navigation: Trail junctions can be confusing. Carry a topographic map and pay attention to trail signs at junctions. The Dogie Trail #116 and Taylor Cabin Trail #35 junction with other trails in the system - know your route before you go.
- Wildlife: The Sycamore Canyon area supports mule deer, elk, turkey, and occasionally black bear. Mountain lions are present but rarely seen. Store food properly and make noise while hiking.
External Resources
Return to: Arizona Backpacking Regions