Overview
Indian Hollow Trail descends into the drainage country west of the Kaibab Plateau's main crest, working through ponderosa pine forest into the creek drainages that feed the canyon system north of the Grand Canyon. It's a wilder, quieter hike than the Kaibab Plateau Trail or Arizona Trail sections, suited to hikers who want to get away from the managed corridor experience and into genuine backcountry terrain.
The trail eventually connects to backcountry Grand Canyon routes through the Tapeats Creek drainage, but those connections require a National Park Service backcountry permit and route-finding experience well beyond what most day hikers bring. The 8-mile national forest section described here is a complete day hike on its own, offering excellent canyon-approach terrain and wildlife habitat.
The Kaibab National Forest maintains this trail with less infrastructure than its flagship routes. Trail markings are present but not as frequent; a downloaded offline topo map and GPS are valuable companions. Many hikers carry 2-3 liters of water; creek water is available but requires treatment; individual needs vary.
The Route
Miles 0 to 2.5: From the trailhead, the route descends through ponderosa pine forest into the upper drainage. The grade is consistent and moderate. Mule deer, wild turkey, and elk are common in this section, particularly in early morning. The forest opens periodically to give views down the drainage ahead.
Miles 2.5 to 4.5: The trail steepens as it works deeper into the drainage, crossing seasonal creek water in spring and early summer. The vegetation transitions to include cottonwood and willow along the creek bottom. Canyon walls become visible through the trees as the drainage narrows.
Miles 4.5 to 8.0 (return): Retrace the route back to the trailhead. The return climb from the drainage bottom is the most demanding part of the day; plan energy reserves for the uphill return.
When to Visit
Mid-May through October, following North Kaibab access road openings. Spring visits offer the best creek water and green vegetation in the drainage bottom. Fall brings cooler temperatures and excellent wildlife activity.
July through September monsoon afternoon storms: start early and be prepared for rain. The drainage terrain carries flash flood risk if heavy rain occurs upstream; check weather forecasts before any canyon drainage hike. See checking conditions before you go for weather and conditions resources.
What to Bring
- Water: many hikers carry 2-3 liters; creek water available but requires treatment; individual needs vary
- Detailed topo map and GPS with offline maps downloaded
- Creek-appropriate footwear if spring creek crossings are planned
- First aid kit for a remote trail
- Rain gear and layers
- Emergency shelter for extended time in remote drainage
Review bear canister requirements for overnight trips in the drainage country. Practice Leave No Trace 7 principles in this remote terrain.
Practical Details
No permit required for the national forest section as of 2026. Grand Canyon National Park backcountry permits are a separate requirement if continuing into the canyon. Contact the NPS Grand Canyon Backcountry Information Center for permit information.
Campfire restrictions apply on the North Kaibab; verify current status before your trip. Cell service is entirely absent at Indian Hollow. Inform someone of your route and expected return.
Getting There
From AZ-67: Approximately 20 miles south of Jacob Lake, look for the Forest Road 232 junction on the west side of the highway. Follow FR 232 approximately 8 miles to the Indian Hollow Trailhead. The road is rough and a high-clearance vehicle is recommended.
Verify current road conditions with the North Kaibab Ranger District in Fredonia before this drive; the access road can be washed out after heavy rain.