Canyon Largo Trading Post Road
Forgotten trading route through Navajo country
This forgotten trading route once connected Navajo families to the Canyon Largo Trading Post, threading through sandstone mesas and juniper flats north of Counselor. The 32-mile loop passes abandoned hogans, prehistoric ruins, and the remains of the old trading post, with technical sections requiring careful tire placement on exposed slickrock and loose shale descents into arroyos.
Rated difficult due to sandstone shelves, sand traps, and route-finding challenges through unmarked terrain. Stock 4WD with skid plates essential, plus GPS and recovery gear. Navajo Nation permits required from Window Rock. Spring and fall offer the best conditions, avoiding summer heat and winter mud. No services for 50+ miles, so carry extra fuel and water. You’ll experience the isolation that defined frontier trading culture and witness landscapes unchanged since Kit Carson’s time.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 32 mi / 51.5 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 6400 ft |
| Best season | March-May, September-November |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD with skid plates |
| Nearest town | Counselor, New Mexico |
| Land manager | Navajo Nation |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
No recent condition reports. Be the first to post one.
Log in to post a condition report.
Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler handle Canyon Largo Trading Post Road?
Yes, but you'll need skid plates and recovery gear. The sandstone ledges and loose rock sections will test your approach angles and underbody protection.
Is the trail accessible during winter months?
Winter access is unpredictable due to snow and mud at higher elevations. Stick to March-May or September-November for reliable conditions.
Do I need permits to drive through Navajo Nation lands?
Yes, you must obtain permits from the Navajo Nation before accessing this route. Contact the Navajo Parks and Recreation Department in advance.
What's the most challenging section of the trail?
The technical sandstone ledges around mile 18 require careful line choice and spotting. Expect body damage if you're not precise with wheel placement.
Are there water crossings and how deep do they get?
Yes, seasonal washes can have water depending on recent rainfall. Most are shallow rock crossings, but check conditions locally as flash flooding is possible.