There are two hikable ends to this canyon with a canyoneering route in the middle.
Lower Catstair Canyon
Type of Hike : Out and Back
Length: 1 Mile round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Sand, mild talus scrambling at the end
Elevation Gain: 5 feet
Dog Friendly: Yes
Park Pass/Permit Required: No
Length: 1 Mile round trip
Directions to the Trailhead
Turn south at mile marker 24.1 on a sneaky dirt road suitable for all vehicles. The turn will be in the middle of a guard rail and the rail will be curved inward on both sides of the dirt road, making it easier to spot. Drive 0.25 miles to the end of the dirt road. Hike due west on a well worn trail.
Lower Catstair Canyon Hiking Description
The east end of the trail, known as Lower Catstair, features an easy 1-mile out-and-back hike leading to a small panel of Ancestral Puebloan pictographs, petroglyphs, and matate (grain grinding grooves) in a pleasantly shaded cavern. It’s easy to imagine the ancient inhabitants creating their artwork while enjoying the cool shade on a hot summer day. Beyond the cavern, the trail continues through a picturesque canyon with easy walking on soft sand, which ends abruptly at a cliff.
Upper Catstair Canyon
Type of Hike : Out and Back
Length: 1 Mile round trip
Difficulty: Easy to Challenging depending on distance.
Terrain: Sand, Sandstone, Slot canyon scrambling (optional)
Elevation Gain: 25 feet
Dog Friendly: Yes to the crushed cars, No after that
Park Pass/Permit Required: No
Length: 1 Mile round trip
Directions to the Trailhead
Turn south at a hard to spot dirt road at mile marker 24.9. It is right in the middle of a steep 3 lane hill so be very cautious of oncoming traffic! The dirt road is a short 75 yards and is fine for all types of vehicles. The hike starts in the wash just below the end of the dirt road and meanders in an S curve to start.
Upper Catstair Canyon Hike Description
The west end, or Upper Catstair Canyon, is a 0.5-mile (1 mile round trip) hike through a narrow canyon featuring elegantly sculpted rock formations and an unusual sight—stacked cars used as an embankment for the highway. Beyond the cars, the canyon narrows into a beautiful slot that invites further exploration. However, be cautious of the drop-offs; while they are easy to jump down, climbing back up is technically challenging. Experienced rock climbers can ascend the first two drops, but the third requires repelling gear. Those unfamiliar with rock climbing may find themselves stuck if not prepared.