Slate Mountain Trail

Slate Mountain is a perfect pick on days when you want maximum views for the minimum amount of climbing possible. It’s a fairly quick trip to the summit (about 2.0mi), from where you can see the epic mountains of the Kachina Peaks Wilderness. Another perk? This route doesn’t get very busy, so you’re fairly likely to have the place to yourself.

This trail can get a little washed out after heavy rains, but it remains easy enough to navigate. We recommend delaying your hike if there’s rain in the forecast to avoid issues with washout as it happens. Low-clearance vehicles will have to take the road to the trailhead slow and easy as it’s not in great condition. If you have a high-clearance vehicle, we’d recommend you take it to be safe.

From the trailhead, hike towards the mountain on the obvious trail. You’ll make one wide switchback before completing a set of narrower ones as you gain elevation. A northeast traverse is followed by a northwestern climb, after which you’ll wrap around the peak and reach the top. From here, enjoy the views before retracing your steps back to the trailhead.