North Mingus Loop – Prescott National Forest

Just outside the buzz of town, nestled in the cooler elevations of Prescott National Forest, the North Mingus Loop Trail offers a hike that hits the reset button. This trail gives you a bit of everything—sharp switchbacks, deep pine shade, rocky terrain, and panoramic views that feel like they belong in a painting. It’s the kind of hike that brings both movement and meaning.

The loop runs about 4.3 miles in total with an elevation gain of roughly 1,100 feet. It’s considered moderate in difficulty—enough to feel the climb, but manageable without gear beyond solid hiking shoes. Most hikers finish it in two and a half to three and a half hours, depending on how often they stop to take in the views. The best time to hike this trail is from spring through fall, when temperatures are steady and the forest floor is alive with wildflowers or autumn color. Trail access starts near the Mingus Summit Campground off FR104, and there’s a $5 day-use fee.

As you move through the loop, you’ll cross View Trail 106, Connector Trail 105A, and North Mingus Trail 105. Each section shifts subtly—from descending into rock-lined switchbacks to winding through tall pine and aspen groves, then opening up to sweeping overlooks across the Verde Valley. You’ll pass through high elevation zones filled with a mix of ponderosa, oak, and seasonal wild growth. The terrain changes enough to keep it interesting, but stays consistent enough to get into a solid flow. It’s quiet, it’s raw, and it’s beautiful.

Because the trail is remote and climbs up to 7,800 feet, it’s important to come prepared. Wear sturdy shoes with grip. Bring more water than you think you need—at least two liters. Weather can change quickly at elevation, so dress in light layers and pack a shell in case of storms. There’s no cell service in parts of the loop, so let someone know your route before you head out. Trail signage is decent, but having a GPS map on your phone can help if you’re unfamiliar with the area. Parking fills up fast on weekends, so get there early. And like always, respect the land—pack it in, pack it out.

What makes this trail a WildEx favorite is the feeling you get when you're out there. It’s the kind of hike that pulls you out of your head and drops you right into the moment. Whether you’re shooting photos in the filtered morning light, sketching on a rock, or just walking to let your thoughts settle, this trail holds space for all of it. It’s not about crushing miles—it’s about finding clarity in motion.

North Mingus Loop is perfect for the days when you want to feel something real. Not too far, not too easy, and just wild enough to leave you better than it found you.