Trail Overview
Old 304 Road offers an easy yet scenic four-wheel-drive journey through the Tusayan Ranger District of Kaibab National Forest, making it ideal for beginners, overland enthusiasts, and SxSs looking to explore the high-desert pine country just south of the Grand Canyon. Spanning approximately 9 miles, this point-to-point trail weaves through mixed ponderosa pine stands, transitions into open fields, and showcases views of the prominent Red Butte landmark rising to the south. The terrain consists primarily of unpaved, single-lane dirt tracks characterized by loose rocks, chalky dust, and mild ruts, with the southern portion becoming increasingly thick with scrub brush and undergrowth.
Earning a technical rating of 2, the trail climbs gently from 6,345 feet to a peak elevation of 7,247 feet, accumulating about 900 feet of climbing along its length. While the route is highly accessible under dry conditions and requires no specialized modifications, high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles are best suited to handle the rocky stretches and uneven surfaces. Wildlife viewing is a major highlight, with frequent sightings of elk, mule deer, and grazing cattle that may occasionally block the path. Due to the nature of the soil, wet weather or winter snow can quickly turn the dirt tracks into slick, challenging mud ruts, making late spring through fall the optimal season for a trip.
