Scoggin’s Wash

Route Description for Scoggin’s Wash

The Scoggin’s Wash Trail is a lovely low-traffic hike through the desert. This hike is very exposed to the sun and is not recommended for hot summer days. Save this hike for cool weather or the winter months. The sandy trail itself is not maintained but is fairly navigable as long as you have good hiking shoes. Bring lots and lots of water and a good sunhat with you and enjoy your time exploring the wonders of the desert.

From the pullout parking area along route 9, follow the Coalpits Wash trail as it heads north until it divides, approximately 2.8 km in. Take a right at this divide to begin on the Scoggin’s Wash Trail. Follow the wash northeast. Approximately 1 mile in, you will see a trail branch off to your left. This is the Old Scoggin’s Stock trail. A short hike up this trail will link you with the Chinle Trail. To finish the Scoggin’s wash trail, stick left and follow the path for another 3.2 km until it links up with the Chinle Trail.

This junction marks the end of the Scoggin’s Wash trail, but there is so much more to explore in this area. If you’re feeling up for it, the Chinle Trail takes you along the remains of a petrified forest and offers fantastic views of Mount Kinesava to the north; but if you are hot and tired and ready to go home, just turn around and follow the wash back out to the parking area.