How to Say “Trail” in Navajo

By Douglas Juan • Updated September 30, 2026

atiin

The Navajo word for a trail or a route for travel over land is atiin.

Meaning: route for travel over land (noun)

Did you know?

In some contexts, the word for 'trail' can be used to describe the way a person carries themselves or behaves.
While English uses 'trail' for both a path and a scent, Navajo distinguishes between a physical 'atiin' and the 'scent trail' left by an animal.
The word atiin descends from the Proto-Athabaskan root *təŋʸ-eˑ.

Example conversation

Amanda and Kyle are planning a hike in the mountains.

Amanda

Díí atiin t'áá ákót'é.
This trail is very narrow.
Kyle

Hózhóóh, t'áá áádooláá.
Yes, it is very steep.
Amanda

Atiin bee yááł?
Will we walk along the trail?
Kyle

Áá', atiin bee yááł.
Yes, we will walk along the trail.

Sources

Word origins: Wiktionary entries atiin, CC BY-SA 4.0.

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About The Author

Douglas Juan

Hello, I am Douglas, an absolute Navajo language enthusiast. My passion for this beautiful language, coupled with my love for sharing knowledge, has inspired me to write numerous guides on common phrases and words. I enjoy exploring words from "Angel" to "Yucca" and everything in between. In my leisure time, you'll often find me experimenting with traditional Navajo recipes, strolling amidst nature, or enjoying a robust cup of traditional Navajo tea. Apache is spoken not far from Navajo, and it has become another language close to my heart, so you will now find my guides to Apache here too. Haash yinilyeii (that's how I say 'that's me' in Navajo)!

Douglas JuanHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

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