Skunk Canyon Loop
Table of contents
The Skunk Canyon Loop takes you through one of the scenic canyons in the Walnut Canyon National Monument. This hike is easy, requires almost no elevation gain, and offers great canyon views the whole way. Note that this is a shorter, easier approach than the full hike of Skunk Canyon, so we recommend it for families. It can get hot out here in the summertime, so make sure you bring water. On the flip side, you might need microspikes in the wintertime. Expect moderate traffic on this hike.
Route Description for Skunk Canyon Loop
The Skunk Canyon Loop is a mostly flat, scenic route on the edge of Flagstaff in the Walnut Canyon National Monument. This is more of a taster of the canyon than the route that travels all the way through it, so this is a good pick for families with young kids or those who want a short, efficient adventure. If you want the full hike through the canyon, refer to our Skunk Canyon Trail route guide.
This hike gets hot in the summertime and snowy/icy in the wintertime. There can be a lot of wildlife on this trail, so take your time and see who you can spot!
Beginning from the trailhead, the route heads away from the road to the point at which the loop begins. Stay left here, curving through the trees down to the canyon. You’ll wander a few steps at the very beginning of the canyon and then return through the ponderosa pines to the trailhead.
Getting to the Skunk Canyon Loop Trailhead
The trailhead for the Skunk Canyon Loop is at the end of S J Diamond Road.
Route Information
Backcountry Campground:
No
When to do:
April-October
Pets allowed:
Yes - On Leash
Family friendly:
Yes
Route Signage:
Poor
Crowd Levels:
Low
Route Type:
Lollipop
Skunk Canyon Loop Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews
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