Outlaw OHV Trail

The trail offers diverse terrain, including dirt paths, doubletrack sections, and areas with loose rocks and solid bedrock. You'll encounter short, steep, technical sections with "softball-size boulders" and rock ledges. After rain, it can become muddy. Some parts are single-track, about one car wide, so be aware of OHV traffic.

The full Outlaw OHV Trail is approximately 27.26 km (about 17 miles) long. Depending on your pace and how much time you spend exploring, it can take around 7 to 8 hours to complete.

The Outlaw OHV Trail is located in the Coconino National Forest near Sedona, Arizona. Specific trailhead parking information isn't detailed, but as an OHV route, it generally has accessible starting points. It's advisable to check local forest service maps or resources for designated parking areas before your visit.

While the trail is within the Coconino National Forest, which generally allows dogs, it's primarily an OHV route. This means you might encounter off-highway vehicles and potentially cows. If you bring your dog, ensure they are on a leash and well-behaved around vehicles and other trail users. Always pack out any waste.

Hiking the Outlaw OHV Trail itself typically does not require a specific hiking permit or entrance fee. However, if you plan to visit nearby historical sites like the Honanki Heritage Site or Palatki Indian Ruins, you will likely need a Red Rock Pass and reservations. Always check the Coconino National Forest website for the latest regulations.

The best times to hike this trail are generally spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when temperatures are milder. Summers can be very hot, and while winters are generally mild, occasional snow or rain can make the trail muddy and more challenging. Always check weather conditions before heading out.

The trail offers impressive red rock formations and sweeping desert panoramas, with views of Capital Butte and Castner Mountain. A significant highlight is its proximity to historical sites like the Honanki Heritage Site and Palatki Indian Ruins, which feature ancient cliff dwellings and Native American pictographs. The trail itself is an old wagon trail, adding to its historical character.

Yes, the route does intersect with other paths. You'll find sections that overlap with Loy Canyon #5, Honanki #79, and Forest Service Road 9513. It also briefly touches the Coconino 250 MTB Route and Lime Kiln #82.

While some sections are rated as T1 (access trail/doubletrack) for hiking, the Outlaw OHV Trail is officially rated as 'difficult' for hiking on komoot. It features steep, rocky portions, loose terrain, and rock ledges that can be challenging. It's also an active OHV route, so beginners should be prepared for rugged conditions and shared use.

Yes, there are dispersed camping spots available along the Outlaw OHV Trail. This offers an opportunity to extend your exploration and experience the remote beauty of the Coconino National Forest. Always follow Leave No Trace principles when camping.

The Outlaw OHV Trail is often less crowded than other popular Sedona trails, particularly its western and southern portions. This is likely due to its primary designation as an OHV route, which deters some hikers, offering a more remote and solitary experience for those who venture onto it on foot.