Hike Red Butte Kaibab National Forest, AZ

Directions

Route Map

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Red Butte is a solitary formation that serves as a nice add-on when going to or leaving the Grand Canyon, and is likely overlooked by most on their way to the National Park. It’s a volcanic remnant with a basalt top, and rises a fair elevation from the surrounding flat landscape. The road in is suitable for any vehicle.

The hike starts at the western base Red Butte. The trail is clear, well-maintained, and gently winds upward through open forest. Early on, the grade is mellow, but higher up the incline steepens a bit.

There’s a fire lookout tower at the opposite end of the flat summit. It’s apparently still in use, but I saw no occupants. Humphreys Peak is visible to the southeast, but unfortunately the Grand Canyon itself mostly hides from view.

PEAKS ON HIKE
Elevation (ft) / Prominence (ft)

Peaks on hike

Elevation

Prominence

Red Butte

7326 ft

946 rise

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Red Butte Trailhead.

Red butte seen ahead along the well-maintained trail.

Wide, mellow switchbacks lower down.

Red Butte ahead.

Switchbacks with open views.

Not much else to say about this one.

Flat summit area leading to the lookout tower.

Typical views from Red Butte.

Close-up toward the San Francisco Peaks.

Hire me or show me some love!

Hire/refer me as a web developer or send me a few bucks if you find my site useful. I’m not sponsored, so all fees are out-of-pocket and my time preparing trip reports is unpaid. I really appreciate it!