Little Saddle

Embark on a difficult hiking adventure along Arizona Trail: Passage 23 - Mazatzal Divide, a challenging route spanning 23.4 miles (37.7 km). You will gain 4285 feet (1306 metres) in elevation, requiring an estimated 11 hours and 28 minutes to complete. This passage takes you through the rugged Mazatzal Wilderness, offering dramatic terrain and expansive views as you traverse just below the peaks of the Mazatzal Mountains. The singletrack path winds through diverse landscapes, from old-growth ponderosa pine forests to rocky sections of red quartzite. Look out for the steep, red-rock cliffs of Mazatzal Peak, towering above the trail and providing incredible vistas of the valleys to the west.

While you can hike this passage year-round, be prepared for varying conditions. Snow may be present at higher elevations following winter storms, so check forecasts before you go. Conversely, lower elevations can become very warm during the summer months, making an early start advisable to avoid the midday heat. Remember that mountain bikes are not permitted within the Mazatzal Wilderness area.

This segment of the Arizona Trail is renowned for its true wilderness experience, immersing you in a remote and untamed landscape. The trail's well-built path guides you through a unique geological setting, characterized by the distinctive "boot-gnashing Mazatzal Red Quartzite." You will encounter a diverse ecosystem, transitioning from dense ponderosa pine forests to more exposed, rocky terrain. It is a demanding journey that rewards you with profound solitude and expansive views across Arizona's rugged heartland.