MOONEY TRAIL

This trail was originally built to drive cattle to and from summer pastures on the rim and is still used for this purpose. Because of this relationship to ranching, this is a wide, well constructed trail. The trail begins next to Black Tank at the junction of FR’s 525C and 9551. The trail turns due north along FR 9551A. The road ends at Sebra Tank and the foot path begins. Both of the two-track roads are rough but driveable. The wilderness boundary is along the 9551A road so take care not to drive off the road. 

From Sebra Tank the trail follows Mooney Canyon for about a mile at which time it starts a steep ascent to the top to the rim. Views are outstanding not only from the top but all along the way. Shade is available in the riparian zone of the canyon but once on the slopes of the canyon, shade becomes scarce. The trail tops out at the junction of Taylor Cabin and Casner Mountain trails. These trails offer some alternatives to returning by way of the same route. Please note that this can be a very hot hike during the warm months. Take plenty of water!