
Red Mountain Trail
Hike into a 740,000-year-old volcanic crater with unique hoodoos and a natural amphitheater.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for hiking

Red Mountain Trail
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for hiking

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike into a 740,000-year-old volcanic crater with unique hoodoos and a natural amphitheater.
"Absolutely perfect. Nice easy trail but can explore the entire area. Not busy .. very natural."

🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leash your dog and bring plenty of water, especially in warmer months.
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry ample water, as there's minimal shade and the cinder sand can amplify heat.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Volcanic Crater Amphitheater
Inside the cinder cone
Explore a natural amphitheater sculpted by ancient volcanic activity, featuring unique geological formations.

Hoodoos
Within the crater
Marvel at the striking hoodoos, natural rock spires formed by erosion, creating a surreal landscape.

Miniature Slot Canyon
Along the trail
Discover a charming, miniature slot canyon offering a unique geological experience on your hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Group Up for Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leash your dog and bring plenty of water, especially in warmer months.
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry ample water, as there's minimal shade and the cinder sand can amplify heat.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The trail is on gravel and cinders, making it a bit more strenuous.
🚗 Easy Access Road
The road leading to the trailhead is generally fine for most vehicles.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leash your dog and bring plenty of water, especially in warmer months.
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry ample water, as there's minimal shade and the cinder sand can amplify heat.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The trail is on gravel and cinders, making it a bit more strenuous.
🚗 Easy Access Road
The road leading to the trailhead is generally fine for most vehicles.
📸 Capture the Geology
Don't miss the unique volcanic features like hoodoos and the natural amphitheater.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Red Mountain Trail's unique geological features, calling it a 'hidden gem' and a 'neat geological site.' The easy hike, dog-friendliness, and scenic beauty are frequently praised. Some note the trail can be strenuous due to cinders and recommend visiting with a group for safety, especially given potential wildlife.
"This was one of the best things we did in the Sedona and Flagstaff region. What a place! You will walk on gravel or cinders which makes this a more strenuous adventure. About 1.5 miles each way. Very cool hoodoos inside the crater amphitheater. We loved the nature. Go with a group. Really not the best place to visit alone as if you needed help, there would be none. We saw a dead elk with the stomach eaten out, so there are preditors there. So, a group activity is best. The whole adjoining area is very picturesque with many volcanic cinder cones."
Nancy McCord
"Great short trail to cool crater. Minimal shade on trail. Good for dogs."
Thomas Youngerman
"Absolutely perfect. Many large level places to camp before the trail parking. The road here was fine for any type vehicle. Places large enough for any vehicle. The trail is easy to navigate and Red Mountain really is something to see. Nice easy trail but can explore the entire area. Not busy .. very natural. Like National forest service areas should be."
Rebecca Lents
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Red Mountain Trail is located about 25-30 miles northwest of Flagstaff, Arizona, heading towards the Grand Canyon South. Take Highway 180 and look for signs for the trailhead.
Yes, the road leading to the trailhead is generally accessible for most vehicles, with large areas for parking.
No, Red Mountain Trail is a separate destination located northwest of Flagstaff, often visited on the way to or from the Grand Canyon.
The drive involves scenic routes through forests and volcanic landscapes. The road itself is typically well-maintained.
Follow Highway 180 northwest from Flagstaff. The trailhead is usually well-marked, often off Fort Valley Road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Currently, there are no mentions of required tickets or permits for Red Mountain Trail. It's generally considered accessible within the Coconino National Forest.
As an outdoor trail, Red Mountain is typically accessible from dawn to dusk. It's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
There is no mention of an entrance fee for Red Mountain Trail. It's a free hiking destination.
Yes, there are large, level areas suitable for camping before the trail parking, offering a natural experience.
The hike is generally considered easy and family-friendly, though climbing into the cinder cone area involves large wooden steps.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The out-and-back trail is approximately 2.5 to 3 miles long, typically taking about an hour to complete.
You'll find a volcanic cinder cone, a natural amphitheater, hoodoos, and a miniature slot canyon, showcasing unique volcanic geology.
There is minimal shade on the trail, so it's advisable to visit during cooler parts of the day or year.
Yes, the trail is very dog-friendly, but be mindful of the heat reflecting off the cinders, which can be tough on paws.
The trail has a modest elevation gain, around 300 feet, making it an easy to moderate hike.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food services or restaurants directly at Red Mountain Trail. It's a natural area, so plan to bring your own snacks and water.
Pack plenty of water, especially for dogs, and consider snacks or a picnic lunch to enjoy before or after your hike.
While not designated picnic areas, the large camping spots before the trailhead offer a natural place to relax and eat.
Campfires are generally not permitted in this area due to fire restrictions in national forests. Always check local regulations.
Flagstaff offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants, located about 30 miles away.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique volcanic landscapes, including the natural amphitheater, hoodoos, and the miniature slot canyon. The panoramic views are also stunning.
Absolutely! The dramatic geological formations and expansive desert vistas make it a prime spot for landscape photographers.
Early morning or late afternoon light offers the best conditions for photography, creating dramatic shadows and warm tones.
While wildlife sightings are possible, maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing animals. Remember to check for local wildlife advisories.
Drone usage is subject to regulations in national forests. It's best to check with the Coconino National Forest for current drone policies before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents should still be mindful of the lack of shade and the potential for heat, especially during summer months. Bringing plenty of water and planning for cooler parts of the day is essential. The wooden steps leading into the cinder cone area are a fun element for kids to navigate. Overall, it's a rewarding experience that combines light physical activity with geological discovery in a beautiful natural setting.
🐶 Dog Owners
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
To get the best shots, aim for the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and creates beautiful shadows. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the volcanic landscape and a macro lens for detailed shots of the rock formations. The unique geology ensures a memorable and rewarding photography experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Geological Marvels of Red Mountain
Visitors often describe the experience as walking on another planet, with the red and black cinders creating a stark, beautiful environment. The trail itself is an out-and-back path, making it easy to navigate. The climb into the crater involves ascending several large wooden steps, which is something to consider for those with mobility challenges. The unique geology makes it a must-visit for anyone interested in the natural history of Arizona.
Pro Tip: While the geology is the main draw, remember that the cinder sand reflects heat, making it feel significantly hotter than the ambient temperature, especially during warmer months. This is a key consideration for planning your visit and ensuring a comfortable experience, particularly for pets.
Hiking Red Mountain Trail with Pets
When visiting with pets, always leash your dog for their safety and the protection of the natural environment. Ample water is non-negotiable; carry more than you think you'll need for both yourself and your pet. The trail offers minimal shade, so planning your hike for the cooler parts of the day – early morning or late afternoon – is highly recommended. Many visitors have successfully enjoyed the trail with their dogs, appreciating the natural beauty and the opportunity for outdoor adventure together.
Key Takeaway: While dog-friendly, responsible pet ownership is paramount. Prioritize your dog's comfort and safety by choosing the right time to visit and bringing sufficient hydration.
Photography Opportunities
Beyond the main crater, the trail itself winds through a landscape dotted with other cinder cones and unique rock formations, offering diverse photographic subjects. The miniature slot canyon is another photogenic spot, showcasing intricate details carved by erosion. Photographers will appreciate the relatively uncrowded nature of the trail, allowing for unhurried composition and capturing the serene, natural environment. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness of the volcanic terrain and a macro lens if you want to capture the finer details of the rock formations.
Photography Tip: Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons or on weekdays to avoid any potential crowds and maximize your photographic opportunities. The unique geology ensures that every angle offers a compelling shot.
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