Mooney Trail

Mooney Trail #12 is a strenuous out-and-back hike/horse route in the Red Rock–Secret Mountain Wilderness area on Coconino National Forest. The route follows Mooney Canyon for about a mile before starting a steep climb up to the rim.

This trail was originally built to drive cattle to and from summer pastures on the rim and still sees that use. Expect wide, well-constructed two-track ground for much of the hike, with the tread switching to a foot path once you reach Sebra Tank.

The trail begins at the junction next to Black Tank where Forest Road (FR) 525C meets FR 9551, then turns due north along FR 9551A. Follow that road toward the wilderness boundary sign; the climb phase begins after the Sebra Tank section and the Mooney Canyon stretch.

Surface is mostly ground; the area is closely associated with ranching infrastructure and includes many water crossings when following the drainage (notably along Mooney Canyon / Spring Creek corridor). Horse use is part of the mix, so move predictably around stock.

Shade is available in the riparian zone within the canyon, but once you’re higher on the slopes, shade becomes scarce. Length is about 18.9 miles out and back with about 2,349 ft elevation gain (around 8 hours typical).

Seasonally, it’s year-round, but snow may occur at higher elevations in winter. Avoid relying on mechanical traction for wet conditions—this canyon and drainage country can get slick, especially where the route traverses crossings and rockier grades.

At the top, the trail reaches the junction with Taylor Cabin Trail and Casner Mountain Trail, giving alternatives to returning the same way (or setting up an alternate loop using those connections).

Plan the logistics with the restrictions in mind: no motorized or mechanized vehicles in the wilderness, and motorized vehicles are not allowed on the two-track portion between FR 9551 and the wilderness boundary at Sebra Tank.

More information: Visitor information, Mount Mooney and Vetter Mountain, MOONEY TRAIL | 101 Hiking Trails