Walnut Creek via AZT-Walnut Canyon Trail

Route Description for Walnut Creek via AZT-Walnut Canyon Trail

Walnut Canyon is a natural and historic site not far outside of Flagstaff in the Coconino National Forest. Walnut Canyon is quite beautiful, and from the viewpoint at the end of this hike, you can appreciate the layers of rock visible in the canyon walls, which are the same layers you’d observe in the nearby Grand Canyon. Also, appreciate that there used to be a thriving pueblo community in this canyon!

This route takes you through a pleasant, shady forest to the creek, and then across the creek to the canyon viewpoint. It can get very muddy and slippery in colder weather, so we recommend this as a summer hike.

From the trailhead, head out on AZT-Walnut Canyon Trail. This will lead you through the trees towards the canyon on an easy, relaxed route. You’ll go left onto County Road 301 B for a few steps before taking a left off of it to approach the creek. Cross the creek, then continue towards the canyon. You’ll find the viewpoint right at the top of the canyon wall.
When you’re ready, you’ll return to the trailhead by backtracking along the same route.