Hike the Buckskin Mountain Passage from Stateline Campground on the Arizona Trail

Depending how you approach this 800 mile trail, I did the first 4 miles or last 4 miles as an out and back from Stateline Campground on the Utah/Arizona state line and the border of Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. This section of the trail does not pass through Vermilion Cliffs N.M. but offers amazing views of the mountains in the park. The trail is difficult and seldom hiked. It is a steady climb to the top of a mountain. Late May and early June are a perfect time to hike this trail because of all the wildflowers that are blooming. I hiked until the first back country dirt road that intersects the trail. It is easy to find your way along the trail and there are plenty of switchbacks along the way to make the climb easier.In total this was a little more than 8 miles round trip. A trail I would definitely hike again, especially to see the wildflowers with the Vermilion Cliffs in the background.

To get to the trail head, take House Rock Rd from Route 89. Pass the Buckskin Gulch and Wire Pass Trailheads. Continue until you reach the Stateline Campground on the right and park there.  The trail ascends steadily for the entire 4 miles out.  Be prepared and watch for changing weather conditions.