Trail Overview
Red Skinner Road offers an easy-going, scenic dirt route through the Kaibab National Forest that is perfect for beginners, campers, and those looking to explore the beautiful pine country just south of Grand Canyon National Park. Spanning approximately 4.9 miles, this broad and well-maintained forest road serves as an excellent gateway for offroaders seeking spacious primitive camping sites capable of hosting large trailers and fifth wheels, particularly closer to the highway. As the trail heads east from Arizona Highway 64, travelers climb gently from an elevation of about 6,585 feet to 6,915 feet, navigating a smooth, rolling landscape dominated by towering ponderosa pines and open meadows. The area is highly active with wildlife, offering frequent sightings of wild horses, cattle grazing, and signs of elk and mule deer.
With a technical rating of 1, this route features a primarily gravel and dirt surface that requires no specialized equipment or high-clearance four-wheel-drive systems under normal dry conditions. Standard passenger vehicles, crossover SUVs, SxSs, and dirt bikes can comfortably traverse the entire distance without encountering any obstacles greater than a few inches. While the road is accessible most of the year, winter snow and spring muddy conditions can make the clay-heavy sections slick, so checking local weather and Kaibab National Forest road statuses is recommended before departure. The eastern end of the trail connects with several other forest service roads, offering options for extended exploration deep into the surrounding public lands.
Access Description
The route is located within the Tusayan Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest. No permits or fees are required to drive the road or to utilize the dispersed camping sites along the route. Dispersed camping is permitted for up to 14 days within a 30-day period. High-clearance four-wheel-drive is not required in dry conditions, but seasonal snow or rain can result in muddy, slick clay conditions that may prompt temporary seasonal closures by the U.S. Forest Service.