Trail Overview

The north-to-south route provides possibly the best views of the Sedona Red Rocks and surrounding areas than any other trail. When traveling from south to north, the lower part of the trail becomes more technical than the reverse route. The switchbacks at the southernmost part of the trail take you on a steep climb from 4,364 feet to 6,821 feet in elevation on top of Casner Mountain, requiring high-clearance 4WDs. This trail is extremely narrow and primitive, so keep your eyes on the trail and bring your rig to a stop to enjoy the views. This trail requires a Coconino National Forest Permit issued twice a year on a first-come, first-serve basis. Please contact the Red Rock Ranger Station for procedures.

Photos of Casner Mountain Trail

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Difficulty

The top of the trail runs the entire mountain ridge with terrain similar to any powerline road, while the southernmost part of the trail has a series of switchbacks and ledges. When headed south to north, the trail is more technical, requiring navigation over steep grades and terrain made of large rocks and loose materials warranting the rating. Note that getting to the north gate of the trail requires traveling over more undulating terrain, washes, and forest roads.

Technical Rating

Nestor Sambilay Jr.

Jul 30, 2025

Open

Got to trail head and gate was locked. Sign said it was for ATV’s less than 63” wide. Wish I knew this before getting to gate

Sean dziedzic

Oct 19, 2024

Open

Trail is completely clear literally nothing wrong but the forest service has it closed for winter 😑

Travis troupe

Jul 25, 2024

Open

Make sure to get your permit early in the year to do this trail. No permits are available if you get to the locked gate trying to get in. Only 22 permits are given per year so good luck getting one. I was hoping to link the west Sedona trails to the flagstaff trails with this route.

MacColl Nicolson

May 18, 2024

Open

Multiple trees down coming from the north end, one eventually to big even for a dirt bike to get around. Could be cleared with a hatched and a few hands.

Robert Moreno

Mar 27, 2024

Open

extremely muddy. limited to 62" or smaller or need a permit

Robert Adeky

Mar 03, 2024

Open

Trenton Hayward

Feb 26, 2024

Open

going up the switchbacks to the top may require an ohv. very wild route, looks like lots of dilapidated sections of rocks washing out going up and down the switchbacks

Carlos Vargas Reyes

Sep 19, 2023

Open

Scott Johnson

Aug 17, 2023

Open

Garrett Teague

Jun 12, 2023

Open