3 Keyhole Sink Trail

This very easy trail leads to a unique petroglyph site located in a box canyon near Sitgreaves Mountain. The pleasant walk takes you through stands of pine and aspen.

Location: 11 miles east of Williams.

Distance: 2 miles out and back.

Approximate hiking time: 1 hour.

Elevation change: 100 feet.

Best seasons: Spring through fall.

Water: None.

Other trail users: Horses and mountain bikes.

Canine compatibility: Dogs are allowed if kept under control.

Permits and restrictions: None.

Maps: USGS Sitgreaves Mountain; Kaibab National Forest (Williams and Tusayan Ranger Districts).

Trail contacts: Williams Ranger District, Kaibab National Forest, 742 South Clover Road, Williams, AZ 86046, (928) 635-5600, www.fs.fed.us/r3/kai/.

Finding the trailhead: From Williams, drive east on Interstate 40 about 8 miles to the Pittman Valley Road exit. Cross the interstate to the north, then turn right (east) on old Route 66. Continue for 2 miles to the Oak Hill Snowplay Area parking lot, which is on the right (south).

The Hike

The trail (which is not shown on the topographic map) starts at a gate on the north side of the road. The trail descends very gradually through an open ponderosa pine forest and small meadows, then turns northeast and passes a small stand of aspen before ending in a box canyon at the Keyhole Sink at 1 mile. A rail fence, interpretive sign, and visitors’ register mark the spot. The low, colorful volcanic cliffs, the aspens and pines, and the pool of water all combine to make this a pleasant spot, especially in the late afternoon.

Look carefully, and you will find a number of petroglyphs along the base of the wall. One of these clearly depicts a herd of deer entering the canyon. Usually the exact meaning of this ancient rock art is more elusive. Please do not touch or otherwise disturb the petroglyphs; they are protected by federal law as a fragile link to the unwritten past. Such artwork is one of the few signs of prehistoric human habitation still found in this section of the Coconino Plateau. Although it is likely that early hunting parties passed through this area from time to time, the short growing season and the lack of water probably discouraged permanent settlement.

Miles and Diections

0.0Trailhead.

1.0Reach Keyhole Sink, your turnaround point.

2.0Arrive back at the trailhead.