Skip to main content
ForestMatters, LLC

Kaibab Plateau Trail

Kaibab National Forest, Arizona · 4 min read

Distance
8 mi
Elevation Gain
600 ft
Difficulty
easy-moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
May through October
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
4 / 10
Trailhead Amenities
Restroom
None
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
None
Camping
Dispersed
Google MapsApple Maps

Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Classic Kaibab Plateau ponderosa pine forest
  • Meadow crossings with excellent mule deer and wild turkey viewing
  • Connects to the Arizona Trail long-distance system
  • Accessible terrain for hikers of most experience levels

Overview

The Kaibab Plateau Trail runs through the signature terrain of the Kaibab National Forest: dense ponderosa pine forest interspersed with open meadows at about 7,500 to 8,000 feet elevation on the North Kaibab Plateau. The 8-mile out-and-back described here covers the core of the trail's most accessible section, gaining a modest 600 feet over 4 miles with no technical terrain.

The Kaibab Plateau is the high, flat-topped landform north of the Grand Canyon that forms the North Rim approach country. Its ponderosa pine forest feels removed from the typical Arizona desert image, closer in character to the forests of Utah's plateaus than to southern Arizona. Wildlife is the primary draw: the Kaibab mule deer herd is world-famous in wildlife management history, and the meadow openings provide reliable viewing opportunities.

This trail connects to the Arizona Trail system, making it a useful segment for those planning longer traverses of the plateau. For a day hike, it stands on its own as one of the more pleasant easy-to-moderate walks on the North Kaibab unit. Many hikers carry 2 liters of water for this distance; no water sources exist on the route; individual needs vary.

The Route

Miles 0 to 2.0: From the trailhead, the route enters ponderosa pine forest that quickly opens into the first of several meadow crossings. These grassy openings are prime deer viewing areas. The trail is wide and the grade gentle throughout this section. Several large trees mark the edge of a forested rise about 1.5 miles in.

Miles 2.0 to 3.5: The trail climbs more noticeably through the second half of the outbound leg, working through alternating forest and meadow. Wild turkey are frequently spotted in the meadows. The forest canopy becomes more varied, with Gambel oak and some aspen mixed into the ponderosa.

Miles 3.5 to 4.0: The trail reaches a junction with the Arizona Trail near the turnaround point. The junction is marked. From here, the ATA continues south toward the Grand Canyon. This is the natural turnaround for the day hike itinerary.

Miles 4.0 to 8.0 (return): Retrace the route. The return trip covers mostly downhill terrain and typically runs 20-30 minutes faster than the outbound leg.

When to Visit

Mid-May through October. The plateau holds snow into May and the access roads open with snowmelt. June through October represents the main season, with late September and October offering the bonus of fall color and peak wildlife activity.

July through September brings afternoon thunderstorms. Start hikes by 7 a.m. and be prepared for rain by early afternoon. The forest provides better lightning cover than exposed ridge routes, but open meadows are exposed.

What to Bring

  • Water: many hikers carry 2 liters; no water sources on route; individual needs vary
  • Rain layer: essential July through September
  • Binoculars: the meadows justify bringing them for deer and bird watching
  • Offline trail maps: cell service is absent on the plateau
  • Sun protection: despite forest cover, UV at altitude is elevated

For long-distance Arizona Trail planning resources, see the Arizona Trail Association website. For general Leave No Trace practices in forest and meadow terrain, review the Leave No Trace 7 principles.

Practical Details

No permit or fee is required for the Kaibab Plateau Trail as of 2026. Dispersed camping is permitted in the national forest away from the trail corridor.

The North Kaibab Plateau access via AZ-67 closes November 1 each year and reopens in mid-May. Verify the road is open before planning a trip.

Fire restrictions apply seasonally; verify with the North Kaibab Ranger District before building any campfire.

Getting There

From Jacob Lake: Head north on US-89A a short distance, then east on Forest Road 461. The trailhead is approximately 5 miles from Jacob Lake on FR 461. The road is maintained gravel.

From Fredonia, AZ (30 miles): Head south on AZ-89A to the AZ-67 junction at Jacob Lake, then follow directions above.

Check current road status and trail conditions. See checking conditions before you go for ranger district contacts and current conditions resources.

Trailhead Parking

Kaibab Plateau Trailhead on Forest Road 461 north of Jacob Lake. Gravel lot with room for 15-20 vehicles. No facilities.

← Back to Kaibab National Forest

More Trails in Kaibab National Forest

moderatepoint-to-point

Arizona Trail on Kaibab Plateau

12 mi1,400 ft gain
May through October

A 12-mile point-to-point traverse of the Kaibab Plateau on the Arizona Trail, crossing ponderosa pine forest, high meadows, and the transition zone approaching the Grand Canyon's North Rim.

4 min read

easy-moderateout-and-back

Coconino Rim Trail

6 mi600 ft gain
April through November

An easy-moderate walk along the southern escarpment of the Kaibab Plateau on the South Kaibab unit, with views south across the Coconino Plateau and ponderosa pine forest terrain.

3 min read

easyout-and-back

Deer Lake Trail

3 mi300 ft gain
May through October

A short, easy hike to a secluded high-elevation lake on the Kaibab Plateau, passing through spruce-fir forest to a quiet fishing destination popular with North Rim visitors.

3 min read

easy-moderateout-and-back

Dog Point Trail

7 mi800 ft gain
May through October

A moderate forest hike to a canyon viewpoint on the eastern edge of the Kaibab Plateau, passing through ponderosa pine and meadow terrain with good wildlife visibility.

3 min read

moderateout-and-back

Indian Hollow Trail

8 mi1,500 ft gain
May through October

A moderate hike into the remote drainage country north of the Grand Canyon's North Rim, descending through ponderosa pine forest toward canyon terrain with creek crossings and good wildlife habitat.

4 min read

easyout-and-back

Point Imperial Area Trail

4 mi400 ft gain
May through October

An easy forest walk near the highest point on the Grand Canyon's North Rim, through old-growth ponderosa pine and spruce-fir forest with meadow openings and canyon views.

3 min read

moderate-hardout-and-back

Saddle Mountain Wilderness Trail

10 mi2,000 ft gain
June through October

A demanding climb into the Saddle Mountain Wilderness on the North Kaibab Plateau, reaching remote canyon rim country with expansive views into the Grand Canyon drainage system.

4 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Kaibab Plateau Trail accessible?
The trail is accessible when AZ-67 and the forest roads to the North Kaibab unit are open, generally mid-May through October. The plateau can hold snow into late May in heavy winters.
Will I see deer on the Kaibab Plateau Trail?
Mule deer are abundant on the Kaibab Plateau and visible in meadow areas, particularly in morning and evening hours. The Kaibab deer herd is one of the most-studied populations in North American wildlife management.
Does this trail connect to the Grand Canyon?
Not directly, but it connects to the Arizona Trail, which continues south to the Grand Canyon North Rim. A full Arizona Trail traverse from this area to the canyon rim is a multi-day commitment.
Is the trail marked?
The main trail corridor is marked, but some meadow crossings can cause confusion. A downloaded offline map is recommended.