North Canyon Trail #4

North Canyon Trail #4 is a remote, strenuous hike in the Saddle Mountain Wilderness on the North Kaibab Ranger District, descending from the East Rim area into North Canyon and finishing near House Rock Wildlife Area. It’s about 10.8 miles out-and-back (around 7 miles one-way if you connect to the lower trailhead).

The trail drops from the rim through mixed conifer and oak thickets, then works its way down North Canyon. Expect a lot of back-and-forth ground across the canyon floor as the route follows the drainage.

Early in the descent you may hit narrow, steep sections; horseback use is possible, but the same steep-and-narrow character applies—move deliberately and don’t assume easy footing in the canyon.

Water is available in the upper canyon: there’s a perennial stream with protected native trout living in some of the larger pools. If you’re planning an overnight, keep at least 100 yards away from the creek for camping.

Route-finding can be tricky once you’re deep in the canyon, where conifer growth can take over the trail corridor. Give yourself extra time for navigation work and stay conservative when visibility or footing degrades.

The trail runs inside a wilderness area with restrictions on mechanized use and equipment, and the forest may post temporary closures; check current conditions before you commit to the drive and hike.

Access is via forest roads from the East Rim Viewpoint side and the lower trailhead road network. The upper section ties into East Rim Trail #7, and the lower end reaches the FR 631 area after following the canyon down from FR 611.

More information: Visitor information, Visitor information, Eastern Kaibab Plateau - Arizona Handbook