Notice: Oct 2009 Descent into the canyon has been prohibited by the Navajo Nation. Hiking is now permitted only along the upper rim. If you proceed beyond the description below, you may also require a
permit from the Hopi Nation as the canyon extends across the tribal boundaries.
Park near the lower (north) concrete tables of the Navajo Nation picnic ground. To the west you can see the site of an old Mormon coal mine. The thin vein of soft coal can be seen around the canyon walls near the top. Other spots were also mined. Walk to the east to find the unmarked trailhead. Coal Mine Canyon is mostly on the Navajo Reservation. The trail starts to the east of the windmill and campground. About 150 feet west of a fence that goes over the edge, a vague trail leads down the north side of a mound can be found. Go around and more to the east, under the lower end of a fence, and down a steep drainage toward the bottom, and into this picturesque canyon.
As you continue down, drop bread crumbs so you will be able to identify the correct exit when you return. The canyon head has about five fingers and can surprise relaxed trekkers who are looking up at the Bryce-like scenes. If it has rained, expect to get dirty. Wear gloves as your hands will be used in the decline and return upward. Walk down canyon to the northeast. After the decline, the hike is easy. About three miles in, you will be at the base of the 400 foot white and Red tower known as The Ghost. Along the way in and back, you should be able to see many arches and fantastic formations. Should you continue another mile or so, you will reach the opening of another wonderful canyon. Ha Ho No Geh Canyon is also great.
There is no water along the way and the hike would be very hot in summer. The trailhead elevation is 5820 feet while the base of The Ghost is at 5320. Most of the decline happens in the first mile. The bright colors of red, white, black, brown, gold, and gray make this one of the best hikes possible for photography. We completed this hike just after a rain and got great pictures. It doesn't get any better than this. It should be part of National Park made up of the Moencopi canyons of Coal, Ha Ho No Geh, Bat, and Blue.
