Staff are currently working to reinvigorate interpretive programing at Walnut Canyon. Ask for information at the visitor center's front desk, or call (928) 526-3367 to check program offerings in advance.
The Ranger Cabin was built in 1904 to help protect Walnut Canyon.
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2023 Walnut Canyon Discovery Hike Schedule Discovery Hikes are ranger led programs that explore sensitive locations and resources within Walnut Canyon National Monument. These locations are not open to the public outside of ranger led programs. During the 2023 season, park rangers will be guiding trips along the historic Ledge Trail and out to Ranger Cabin, the second oldest USFS cabin in the country.
Ledge Discovery Hike - Reservations Required
The Ledge Hike navigates an unmaintained path that leads past a number of Native American cliff dwellings that date back to 1100 - 1250 CE. Due to the highly sensitive dwelling sites and cultural heritage that is preserved along this trail, the hike is limited to 5 participants. Reservations are required for this hike, and these programs often fill quickly. To inquire about available spots on the Ledge Hike, please call the Walnut Canyon visitor center at (928) 526-3367.
Know before you go: The Ledge Discovery Hike traverses an unmaintained path within Walnut Canyon National Monument. There are steep drop offs, no handrails, and uneven footing in certain areas. This hike is not appropriate for those that have trouble hiking in these conditions or for young children. The hike is roughly 1.5 miles round-trip and will take around 1 hour and 30 minutes. The trail descends 200 feet into Walnut Canyon and concludes with a 200-foot ascent out of the canyon via 273 stairsteps.
Ledge Discovery Hike Schedule
Saturday, June 24 from 10:00-11:30 AM
Saturday, July 8 from 10:00-11:30 AM
Saturday, July 22 from 10:00-11:30 AM
Ranger Cabin Discovery Hike
The Ranger Cabin Discovery Hike explores the rich and complex history of modern preservation efforts within Walnut Canyon. The cabin was built for the first forest rangers who were tasked with preserving the resources within Walnut Canyon National Monument. Participants will join a park ranger in a 2 mile round-trip hike to the cabin, learning about the diverse history of this land and how Ranger Cabin and the occupants who lived there approached preservation. The program will conclude with a tour of the cabin, and the hike back to the visitor center.
Know before you go: The Ranger Cabin Discovery Hike is a 2 mile round-trip hike. The path to Ranger Cabin is dirt, with uneven and rocky sections. Much of the trail is not protected by shade. Participants should wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, wear layers, and ensure they have sun protection. Participants who would like to attend the Ranger Cabin Discovery Hike should arrive 15-30 minutes early, meet at the Walnut Canyon Visitor Center, and be prepared to begin the program at 10:00 AM.
Ranger Cabin Discovery Hike Schedule
Saturday, June 17 from 10:00 AM -12:00 PM
Saturday, July 15 from 10:00 AM -12:00 PM
Saturday, July 29 from 10:00 AM -12:00 PM
Interpretive programs are presented each summer weekend at the top of the Snowbowl Sky Ride.
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Programs in the Nearby Flagstaff Area.
Join Park Rangers and volunteers on ranger guided talks and hikes in nearby National Park Service and Forest Service locations throughout the summer.
