The best running trails in Navajo County

Navajo County offers a diverse landscape for runners, ranging from high-desert plateaus and iconic sandstone formations to cooler ponderosa pine forests. You'll find a variety of environments, including paths with moderate elevation changes and relatively flat sections, providing distinct running experiences across the region.

There are 11 running routes available in Navajo County, with options for various preferences. The majority, 10 routes, are rated as moderate, and there is 1 difficult route for those seeking a greater challenge.

The running routes in Navajo County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Runners frequently praise the stunning natural beauty, from the dramatic desert vistas of Monument Valley to the serene mountain forests, offering unique and engaging environments for their runs.

While many routes are moderate, some areas offer more accessible options. For example, the Sandal Trail at Navajo National Monument is a 1.3-mile roundtrip self-guided trail leading to an overlook of the Betatakin ruins, offering a scenic and historical experience suitable for families. Always check specific trail conditions for suitability.

Navajo County is rich in natural wonders. You can experience the iconic red sandstone formations of Monument Valley, such as those visible from the West Mitten Butte loop from Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. Other highlights include the 'Old Faithful giant petrified log' at Petrified Forest National Park, and the ancient cliff dwellings at Navajo National Monument & Visitor Center.

Yes, many of the running routes in Navajo County are circular. For instance, the Running loop from Timber Mesa Trailhead Parking and the Running loop from Torreon Golf Course are popular options that allow you to start and finish at the same point.

Many trailheads offer designated parking. For example, the Running loop from Timber Mesa Trailhead Parking starts directly from a parking area. When planning your run, check the specific route details on komoot for information on parking facilities near the trailhead, especially for popular spots like Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park.

The diverse climate of Navajo County means different areas are ideal at different times. The cooler mountain forests, particularly in the White Mountains Region and areas with ponderosa pines, are excellent for running during warmer months. Desert areas like Monument Valley are often more pleasant in spring and fall, avoiding the peak summer heat.

Absolutely. The West Mitten Butte loop from Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park offers close-up views of the monumental sandstone structures. Another excellent option is the View on East Mitten Butte – View on West Mitten Butte loop from Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, which provides expansive vistas of these iconic geological formations.

Dog policies vary significantly by location within Navajo County. While some local parks and forest trails may be dog-friendly, national parks and monuments, such as Petrified Forest National Park and Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, often have strict rules regarding pets on trails. Always check the specific regulations for the area you plan to visit before bringing your dog.

Access to certain areas, particularly within tribal parks like Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park or national parks like Petrified Forest National Park, may require entrance fees. Some trails on Navajo Nation land might also have specific permit requirements. It's advisable to check the official websites for these locations before your visit. For general information about Navajo County, you can visit navajocountyaz.gov.

The running trails in Navajo County vary in length. For example, the West Mitten Butte loop from Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is 4.3 miles (7.0 km), while the Blue Ridge Mountain loop from Blue Ridge Trailhead #2 is a longer option at 9.3 miles (14.9 km). Most routes range from 4 to 9 miles, offering options for different running preferences.