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Keyhole Sink Trail: A Journey Through Time and Nature

Discover ancient petroglyphs and natural beauty on an easy hike through Arizona's Kaibab National Forest. A short trail with a rich history.

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Hike the easy Keyhole Sink Trail in Kaibab National Forest to discover ancient petroglyphs etched into volcanic rock by the Cohonina people, ancestors of modern tribes, and a seasonal waterfall in a scenic box canyon. This short trail offers a glimpse into the past and the natural beauty of Arizona's high country.

A brief summary to Keyhole Sink Trail

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be rocky in places.
  • Bring water, as there are no water sources along the trail.
  • Visit in early spring to see the seasonal waterfall.
  • Respect the petroglyphs and leave them undisturbed.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife, including deer and tree frogs.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Flagstaff (approximately 21 miles): Take I-40 W to exit 178 for Parks Rd. Turn right onto N Parks Road, then left onto E Old Route 66. Follow Old Route 66 for 4.1 miles to the trailhead. The parking area is located across the highway at the Oak Hill Snow Play Area. From Williams (approximately 11 miles): Take I-40 E to exit 171 for Pitman Valley Rd/Deer Farm Rd. Turn left onto Cool Pines Rd, then right onto E Old Route 66/Wagon Wheel Road. Follow Wagon Wheel Road for approximately 2.3 miles to the trailhead. The parking area is located across the highway at the Oak Hill Snow Play Area. There are no fees to park or access the trail.

  • Walking

    The Keyhole Sink Trailhead is located off of Route 66, a few miles west of Parks, Arizona. From the Oak Hill Snow Play Area parking lot, carefully cross Route 66 to reach the trailhead. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow.

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Discover more about Keyhole Sink Trail

The Keyhole Sink Trail, nestled in the Kaibab National Forest near Parks, Arizona, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and ancient history. This easy-to-hike trail leads to a scenic box canyon where the gray volcanic walls are adorned with petroglyphs created roughly 1,000 years ago by the Cohonina people. These ancient Puebloans, believed to be ancestors of today's Navajo, Hopi, and Zuni tribes, left their mark on the canyon, offering a glimpse into their lives and beliefs. The 1.5-mile round trip trail meanders through a tranquil ponderosa pine forest, providing shade and a pleasant aroma. The terrain is generally easy, though some sections can be rocky, so sturdy shoes are recommended. As you walk, keep an eye out for ancient tree stumps, remnants of logging activities from the early 1900s. These stumps serve as a reminder of the area's more recent past. At the end of the trail, you'll reach Keyhole Sink, a keyhole-shaped lava flow with a pool of water at its base. This natural dead-end was likely used by the Cohonina people as a hunting ground, as evidenced by a petroglyph depicting a deer herd entering the canyon. The petroglyphs showcase various animals, including deer, snakes, frogs, and lizards, reflecting the wildlife that frequented the watering hole. Depending on the season, you might even witness a seasonal waterfall cascading into the sinkhole basin, adding to the area's allure. In 2010, the petroglyphs suffered damage from vandalism but have since been restored. Today, hidden cameras monitor the site to protect this irreplaceable cultural resource. As you explore Keyhole Sink Trail, remember to respect the traces of the past and leave them undisturbed for others to enjoy.

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