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Kaibab Forest Hiking

KAIBAB FOREST

The Kaibab Plateau is a wonderful area to experience the beauty of nature. It is the home of the Kaibab White Tailed Squirrel as well as many other species of plants and animals. Wildflowers and fall colors are among nature’s seasonal offerings to hikers in the Kaibab National Forest. Deer, coyote, many species of birds as well as ground squirrels, chipmunks, and other rodents also inhabit the forest. Jacob Lake Inn is a great place to use as a base camp while exploring the Kaibab National Forest and its many trails, paths and roads.

Challenges on the North Kaibab include steep, rugged terrain, primitive trails, and lack of water; however, among the rewards are spectacular views of towering cliffs and magnificent canyons. Several trails lead into the Grand Canyon National Park. Overnight hiking or camping in the Park requires a permit from the National Park Service: for information, call or write Back Country Reservations at the Grand Canyon National Park.

Some of the trails on the Kaibab are best suited for the experienced hiker but there are trails for the novices too.

Difficulty is a function of trail condition, alignment, steepness of grades, gain or loss of elevation, the type and number of natural barriers that must be crossed - and, of course, the physical condition of the hiker. A few of the trails rise high enough that the hiker may encounter sudden changes in the weather. Winter-like snowstorms may occur as early as September and as late as May with a corresponding drop in temperature. Summer temperatures may be quite warm and afternoon thunderstorms occur frequently in July and August, especially in the vicinity of mountain peaks. It is best to avoid mountaintops or ridges, open areas, or shallow caves during storms. Take shelter in a boulder field, in forested areas away from tall trees, or in your car.

You may find water along some trails, but it is not recommended for drinking. Always carry plenty of water for each hike, at least 1 gallon per day per person. In addition to water, day hikers should have plenty of sunscreen, a long-sleeved cotton shirt, sweater, hat or cap, and a small first aid kit in their pack. Throw in a couple of large trash bags: they make excellent emergency rain gear, will keep you dry if you have to sit or lie on wet ground, and warm you up in a chilly wind. Take along a signal mirror too: it will enable you to signal passing aircraft in case of an emergency.