Granite Mountain Trail #261

Granite Mountain Trail #261 is a dirt, hiking-only route (no bicycles) in Prescott National Forest that runs through Granite Mountain Wilderness. It’s mapped as an out-and-back day trip from the Granite Basin Recreation Area up toward Blair Pass and into the Granite Mountain Wilderness area.

The hike follows switchbacks as it climbs from the lower, mild tread into a steeper ascent on rocky terrain toward Blair Pass. After reaching the pass area, the route continues up and along granite sections toward an overlook at the top.

Distance is about 8.2–8.4 miles round-trip (about half that one-way). Elevation change is roughly 1,500+ ft over the day, which is why the route is rated moderate despite not being a technical scramble line.

Time-wise, plan on roughly 2 hours one-way for the main climbing leg, with additional time at the turnaround/overlook. One reported round-trip pacing is about 4 hours total with a short summit stop.

Access is via a trailhead reached from Granite Basin Road/Metate Trailhead; the trail starts just across from the parking area. A day-use fee applies for entry, with waivers on Wednesdays, so budget for that as part of trip planning.

The trail passes nesting habitat for peregrine falcons; stay on the marked tread during the nesting season from February 1 through July 31. Expect exposure and some sections with minimal shade on the steeper portions of the climb.

More information: Visitor information, Hike Granite Mountain in Prescott National Forest, Hike #13 - Granite Mountain Trail #261