LONG BEFORE THE ARIZONA NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL (AZT) was created, Dale Shewalter was determined to cross the Grand Canyon State on foot, linking mountains, deserts, canyons, forests, and communities along a single path. Dale started this visionary adventure at the Mexico–U.S. border and walked north toward his home in Flagstaff, and eventually to the invisible line that separates Arizona and Utah. Thus, when the AZT was built, it was oriented from south to north to honor Dale’s journey and his vision.
As you will see in this guidebook, Passage 1 begins at the southern boundary, between Mexico and the United States, at the Arizona line; and the trail’s final link, Passage 43, terminates at the northern boundary, the Arizona–Utah border.
Within that geographic order, the passages are divided into three segments: South (Passages 1–15), Central (Passages 16–27), and North (Passages 28–43).
Likewise, the 32 Gateway Communities and the Geology Sites unfold from south to north.
Each passage’s length in miles—and its often-challenging terrain—can present a full day’s hike, and sometimes more, if you want to complete the entire passage. But all trail users should feel welcome to enjoy partial distances along each passage, according to their available time and energy. Therefore, you will note that the narrative description for each passage includes a southern access point and a northern access point—and often yet an additional alternate access. This gives hikers, backpackers, mountain bikers, and equestrians more options for hitting the trail. It also invites opportunities to set up shuttle transportation for each passage. For example, in Passage 1, you could arrange for a car to be parked near that passage’s northern access, at the Parker Canyon Lake Trailhead, or near the Sunnyside Canyon Trailhead. Meanwhile, you could begin the hike at the southern access, at Montezuma Pass.
Another aspect for trail users to consider is each passage’s terrain. Thus, the difficulty rating in the key info section at the top of each entry indicates the level of energy, stamina, and hiking prowess needed for that stretch of the AZT. Following are this guidebook’s difficulty criteria:
STRENUOUS: Extreme elevation challenges, rough terrain, harsh environmental concerns, and expert route-finding skills are often required. Appropriate for well-seasoned outdoor adventurers.
DIFFICULT: Steep grades, long distances between water sources, rough terrain, and good route-finding skills required. Appropriate for skilled hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians familiar with Arizona’s unique challenges.
MODERATE: Rolling terrain, well-maintained tread, and ample water. Appropriate for hikers, runners, and other trail users who are prepared for remote outings.
EASY: Level terrain that presents few environmental challenges. Appropriate for most ability levels.