Sycamore Canyon Wilderness - Coconino NF
Winter Cabin Trail #70
A steep descent into Sycamore Canyon connecting rim country to the canyon bottom and Sycamore Creek
Distance
5.9 miles
Difficulty
Moderate
Elevation Loss
~1,500 ft
Best Season
Mar-May, Sep-Nov
Route Overview
Winter Cabin Trail #70 drops 1,500 feet from the forested rim of Sycamore Canyon Wilderness down to Sycamore Creek in the canyon bottom. The trail is named for a historic cabin that once stood near the creek - a remnant of the area's ranching past when cattlemen used the canyon for winter grazing.
The trail provides a direct connection between the rim trail system (Kelsey Trail #3) and the canyon bottom, making it a useful route for through-hikes and loop trips in Sycamore Canyon. The descent is steady but not extreme, passing through a classic vegetation transition from ponderosa pine to oak woodland to riparian canyon bottom.
At 5.9 miles one-way, the trail is best done as an out-and-back (11.8 miles) or combined with the Kelsey Trail #3 for a longer loop. The trail connects with other routes in the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness system for multi-day backpack options.
Route Description
Trailhead: The Winter Cabin Trail #70 trailhead is accessed from Forest Road 231 in Coconino National Forest, south of I-40 near Williams, AZ. The trailhead shares the same access road as the Kelsey Trail #3 and other Sycamore Canyon Wilderness trails.
Upper Section: The trail begins in open ponderosa pine forest on the rim above Sycamore Canyon. The initial miles follow a gentle grade through mature pine forest with an understory of grasses and occasional Gambel oak.
Descent: The trail begins a steady descent into the canyon. The grade is consistent - roughly 1,500 feet of elevation loss over 5.9 miles. The vegetation transitions from pine forest to oak woodland as you drop in elevation. The red rock walls of Sycamore Canyon become visible as you approach the canyon bottom.
Canyon Bottom: The trail reaches Sycamore Creek in the canyon bottom. This area provides camping spots on sand and gravel bars. The creek flows seasonally - strongest in spring from snowmelt and during summer monsoon season.
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.
Fires: Check current fire restrictions. During fire season (typically May-July), campfires may be prohibited.
Connecting Trails
The Winter Cabin Trail #70 connects with the Kelsey Trail #3 at the rim, forming a useful combination for loop trips. From the canyon bottom, you can also connect to the Parsons Trail #144 and Dogie Trail #116 for extended routes through the wilderness area.
External Resources
Return to: Arizona Backpacking Regions