Overview
The Saddle Mountain Wilderness covers the northeastern corner of the North Kaibab Plateau, where the forested plateau breaks apart into canyon drainage country leading toward the Colorado River. The wilderness is remote by Arizona standards, accessed by a trail that sees a fraction of the traffic on the main Kaibab Plateau and Arizona Trail corridors. The reward for the moderate-hard effort is canyon rim terrain with views into the Grand Canyon drainage system and the solitude that the main rim routes don't offer.
The Kaibab National Forest manages this trail with less intensive maintenance than its flagship routes. Come prepared for trail sections that may be overgrown or require some route-finding. A detailed topo map and GPS with offline navigation downloaded are important companions here.
No water sources exist on the route. Many hikers carry 3 liters for a full 10-mile day in this terrain; individual hydration needs vary. The trail is at elevations between 7,500 and 9,000 feet, so heat is less of a concern than on lower Arizona trails, but afternoon thunderstorms from July through September apply here as throughout the North Kaibab.
The Route
Miles 0 to 2.0: From the trailhead, the route climbs through dense ponderosa pine forest on the plateau. The grade is steady throughout. This section is the most forested and offers the best wildlife habitat, with mule deer common and wild turkey occasional visitors to the trail corridor.
Miles 2.0 to 4.0: The climb becomes more sustained as the trail gains the main ridge toward Saddle Mountain. The vegetation shifts as the trail works higher, with more Gambel oak and mixed conifer species appearing. Views begin to open as the canopy thins at higher elevations. Navigation requires more attention in this section.
Miles 4.0 to 5.0: The final approach to the Saddle Mountain ridge delivers the payoff. The trail reaches canyon rim terrain at approximately 9,000 feet, where the forested plateau gives way to the dramatic drop into drainage country. Views extend north across the canyon system and east toward the Vermilion Cliffs country of southern Utah.
Miles 5.0 to 10.0 (return): Retrace the route. The descent is easier than the climb but requires care on the steeper sections. Manage energy for the full return trip.
When to Visit
June through October, when the North Kaibab access roads are open. The earliest reliable access is mid-June when snow has cleared the upper elevations and forest roads have dried. Late September and October are excellent for fall conditions and reduced crowds.
July through September requires early starts due to afternoon thunderstorms. The Saddle Mountain ridge is exposed enough that being caught in a lightning storm is a serious hazard.
What to Bring
- Water: many hikers carry 3 liters; no reliable sources on route; individual needs vary
- Detailed topo map and GPS with offline maps
- Rain gear
- Layers: rim-level temperatures drop quickly when clouds arrive
- First aid supplies including blister care for a 10-mile day
- Headlamp for early starts
Review Leave No Trace 7 principles before visiting the wilderness. Dispersed camping is permitted with standard protocols.
Practical Details
No permit or fee is required as of 2026. The America the Beautiful Pass is not required at this trailhead. See veteran benefits in national forests for pass program information.
Campfire restrictions apply throughout the Kaibab. Verify current fire danger status before your trip.
Cell service is absent throughout the North Kaibab Plateau. The nearest services are at Jacob Lake Inn, approximately 15 miles from the trailhead.
Getting There
From AZ-67 south of Jacob Lake: Watch for the signed Forest Road 8910 turnoff east of the highway. Follow FR 8910 approximately 4 miles to the trailhead. The road is rough in places and a high-clearance vehicle is recommended.
Confirm the current road status with the North Kaibab Ranger District in Fredonia before your trip. See checking conditions before you go for current conditions resources.