Little Elden Trail

Most hikers complete the Little Elden Trail in about 2.5 hours. This estimate can vary based on your pace and how much time you spend enjoying the scenery or exploring side paths.

The Little Elden Trail is generally rated as moderate in difficulty, but some sections, especially those gradually descending towards Schultz Pass, can feel relatively easy. It's a multi-use trail, popular with hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians, making it accessible for those with some hiking experience. Families with active children should find it enjoyable.

The trail offers diverse terrain, winding through picturesque stands of Ponderosa pine and gamble oak, as well as traversing grasslands. You'll also encounter unburned pine, oak, and juniper. While some sections pass through areas impacted by the 2010 Schultz Wildfire, these stretches are often considered interesting rather than unpleasant.

The area is a significant wintering ground for mule deer, which can be seen year-round. In certain seasons, particularly the fall, the changing colors of aspens provide outstanding photo opportunities. The trail also leads to Schultz Tank and offers a short side trip to the reliable pools of Little Elden Spring.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round, with mule deer visible throughout the seasons. However, for outstanding photo opportunities and vibrant scenery, the fall is particularly recommended due to the changing colors of the aspens.

Yes, the Little Elden Trail is a major connector. It is part of the Mount Elden Dry Lake Hills Trail System and the Schultz Tank Trail System. It also forms a segment of the Arizona Trail and connects to the Sunset Trail and Weatherford Trail #102, allowing access to a wider network of trails, including those in the Kachina Peaks Wilderness.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly. However, please be aware that leashes may be required in some areas, so it's always best to keep your dog on a leash to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all trail users and wildlife.

Parking is available at various access points for the Little Elden Trail, which is part of the larger Mount Elden Dry Lake Hills Trail System. Specific trailhead parking information can often be found on local forest service websites or trail apps.

The Little Elden Trail is located within the Coconino National Forest. Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for day hiking on this trail. However, it's always a good idea to check the official USDA Forest Service website for the Coconino National Forest for any current regulations or alerts, especially if you plan on camping or engaging in other activities that might require a permit.

The trail's elevation ranges from approximately 7,111 feet to a maximum of 8,056 feet, with an overall elevation range of about 945 feet. This gradual change contributes to its moderate difficulty rating.

The Little Elden Trail primarily functions as a segment within a larger network, connecting to other trails. While it can be hiked as an out-and-back, many users incorporate it into longer loop routes by combining it with other trails in the Mount Elden Dry Lake Hills Trail System.