Kaibab National Forest
Snake Gulch-Kanab Creek Trail #59
Remote wilderness trail past multicolored cliffs and ancient pictographs to Kanab Creek
Distance
~12 miles RT
Difficulty
Advanced
Elevation Change
~2,000 ft
Best Season
Mar-May, Sep-Nov
Route Overview
The Snake Gulch-Kanab Creek Trail #59 is one of the most remote and scenic wilderness trails in northern Arizona. The route descends from the Kaibab Plateau through Snake Gulch - a narrow, multicolored canyon with towering sandstone walls - to Kanab Creek in the canyon bottom. Along the way, you'll pass ancient pictographs, natural arches, and some of the most dramatic canyon scenery outside of Grand Canyon National Park.
The trail is approximately 12 miles round trip with about 2,000 feet of elevation change. The route is well-maintained but receives relatively little traffic, giving it a true wilderness feel. Kanab Creek provides reliable water year-round, making this a viable backpacking destination.
The trail connects to the Ranger Trail #41 in the canyon bottom, providing access to extended routes along Kanab Creek. This area is part of the Kaibab National Forest and borders Grand Canyon National Park's northern boundary.
Route Description
Trailhead: The Snake Gulch Trail #59 trailhead is located on Forest Road 222 in Kaibab National Forest, south of Fredonia, AZ. The road is dirt but generally passable for standard vehicles in dry conditions. High-clearance is recommended after rain. The trailhead has a small parking area and a trail register.
Upper Section: The trail begins on the Kaibab Plateau in open pinyon-juniper forest. The initial miles follow a gentle grade across the plateau, passing through typical Kaibab forest with scattered ponderosa pine. Views are limited in the upper section as the trail stays in forest.
Snake Gulch: The trail enters Snake Gulch via a steep descent. The canyon walls close in around you, revealing spectacular multicolored sandstone - bands of red, orange, white, and gray. The gulch is narrow in places, with the trail following the canyon bottom or bench systems along the walls. You'll pass several seeps and small springs that feed the canyon.
Pictographs: Along the canyon walls, you'll encounter ancient pictographs left by ancestral Puebloan peoples. These rock art panels are fragile and culturally significant - view them respectfully and do not touch or deface them.
Kanab Creek: The trail reaches Kanab Creek in the canyon bottom. The creek flows year-round, though volume varies seasonally. The creek bottom is sandy with cottonwoods and willows providing shade. This is a good camping area for overnight trips.
Permits & Regulations
Permit Required: No. No permits are required for day use or overnight camping on the Snake Gulch Trail in Kaibab National Forest.
Camping: Dispersed camping is allowed following Kaibab National Forest regulations. Camp at least 200 feet from water sources. The Kanab Creek bottom offers excellent campsites.
Fires: Check current fire restrictions. During fire season, campfires may be prohibited. Use established fire rings where available.
Cultural Resources: The pictographs and archaeological sites along the trail are protected by federal law. Do not touch, deface, or remove any artifacts.
Water & Conditions
- Water Sources: Kanab Creek provides reliable water year-round. Several seeps and springs occur along Snake Gulch. Carry water for the upper plateau section until you reach the gulch.
- Trail Conditions: The trail is generally well-maintained but can have rough sections with rocky tread. After heavy rain, the canyon bottom may have standing water or mud. Flash flood risk is low in Snake Gulch compared to slot canyons, but always check weather conditions.
- Seasonal Notes: Spring (March-May) offers wildflowers and moderate temperatures. Fall (September-November) provides crisp air and golden cottonwoods. Summer can be hot in the canyon. Winter brings snow on the plateau.
- Wildlife: The area supports mule deer, turkey, and diverse bird species. Kanab Creek is home to native fish species. Black bears are present on the Kaibab Plateau - store food properly.
External Resources
Return to: Arizona Backpacking Regions