TRAIL STATS. Peak Summited: 2020 Humphreys Peak: Type of Hike: Day hike: Trailhead: Humphrey's Peak Trail: Encountered: Ripe berries: Hiking Companions: Hiked with a group: Road Conditions: Road suitable for all vehicles: Bug Status: No bugs: Snow Conditions: Snow free: Trail Conditions: Trail in good condition The trail connects with a larger network that includes the Weatherford Trail, Kachina Trail, and Inner Basin Trail. But the trail is easy to follow and well maintained. Go PRO to support our mission and get benefits like gear deals, no ads, and more! It is actually located right beside Snowbowl with plenty of parking at the bottom as long as it is not a busy ski day. This hike will tempt you to pack a parachute as sandstone peaks reach 1,500 feet above Red Rock Canyon … People of all ages make the trek, though a certain level of physical fitness is required. Arizona Winter; Central Oregon; Colorado Rockies; New England; Northern California; Pacific Northwest; Southern California; Activity; Forums; Blog; Shop; Log In; Register; Sign in Sign up. From the ski station up to the top and come back down. The saddle splits Humphreys and Mount Agassiz, second-highest peak in the range (And Arizona). This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Humphreys Peak – Climbing, Hiking & Mountaineering. Humphreys Peak is the penultimate high altitude hike. Flagstaff has no shortage of breweries and great food. Hi Jamie, thanks for the excellent article. The trail cuts directly across the green/bunny slope of the ski area. Humphreys Peak Hike: An Overview. Great atmosphere and great beer to relax after the hike. White Pinnacle Peak, Nevada. Off-trail hiking is also prohibited above 11,400. This rocky trail is open all year round, but snow can make hiking difficult during the winter months. The Hopi call the peaks Nuva’tuk-iya-ovi. I think this can best be envisioned when viewing the peaks from the southwest. A day hike to Humphreys Peak from the Arizona Snowbowl – stand on top of Arizona at 12,633 feet above sea level and retrace your steps back to the parking area. Trail Route: Trail X Factors: Elevation . Humphreys Peak is the highest peak in Arizona at 12,637 feet(3,852 meters) within the volcanic San Francisco Peaks near Flagstaff. As a regular state high pointer, I found Humphreys Peak to be a refreshingly straightforward hike. The summit is always windy and cold, even in summer. The range is home to several lesser peaks, including: These mountains are immediately north of the city of Flagstaff and tend to see significant hiking traffic. My plan was to be at the summit before Sunrise so that we could watch the sun rise on New Years Day. This trail might be closed for skiing season, but I am not sure. Visual proof: the distant Grand Canyon, shimmering like a mirage across the high-desert plateau below. The footpath remains visible, and the wooden stakes will continue to guide you. It is in Coconino County part of the Kachina Peaks wilderness area. Wildflowers and warm air will keep skiing off your mind. by Jim_H Humphrey is traditionally done in the summer months as a high elevation hike that offers some relief from the heat and humidity of the much lower elevations (anything under 6000' in my mind). Peak Summited: 2019 Humphreys Peak: Type of Hike: Day hike: Trailhead: Humphreys Peak TH: Hiking Companions: Hiked with a group: … 0 Comments. You could luck out with an unseasonably warm and calm day (though the opposite is equally possible). To learn more about what you should pack for a day hike, check out our expert guide - How To Prepare For A Day Hike & Packing Lis t. Finally, there’s always the chance of early-season snow and ice at the higher elevations. After hiking 2.5 miles on Weatherford Trail you will reach Humphreys Saddle, where the Weatherford Trail ends at the Humphreys Summit Trail. Humphreys Peak Trail Guide. Nevada Trails. Avalanche Danger: Following winter storms, there may be increased danger of avalanches on steep slopes, ... USGS Map: Humphreys Peak Quad. Could this flower be the San Francisco Peaks Groundsel? Packera franciscana! The mountain was plainly visible from so many places and I couldn’t wait to get up it. Tags terms: Top 10 Hard Hikes. A day hike to Humphreys Peak from the Arizona Snowbowl – stand on top of Arizona at 12,633 feet above sea level and retrace your steps back to the parking area. Hike directly between the two signs and continue north towards the treeline. Snow bowl Road gets closed before the skiing season. You’re smart to reach out for outside advice, but it gives me a hunch that you’re reaching beyond your capabilities. Humphreys Peak is less than 30 minutes from Flagstaff Arizona. Near 10,800 feet, the trail begins to get much steeper and gains about another 1,200 feet in a mile.  - Out-and-Back Trail. It's about 4.5 miles long (one way) with around 3500 feet of elevation gain. Hiking. Here’s a map that shows the Humphreys Peak Trail #151, courtesy of the US Forest Service. The remnants of a dormant volcano, the peaks are home to some of the most spectacular hikes in the state, including a trail that leads you to the summit of Humphreys Peak, with an elevation of 12,633 feet. Not that I plan to or have the heart to climb the tallest peak in each state. Humphreys Peak is the highest point in the state of Arizona, at 12,633 feet above sea level. You will go over two false summits before you reach Humphreys Peak, but they are fairly obvious. Entering “Arizona Snowbowl” on your GPS will also get you there. Below is an example of essential day-hiking gear for Humphreys Peak in September. Wildflowers and … Stay hydrated. After soaking in the views from the highest point in Arizona, turn around and hike 1.0 mile back to Humphreys Saddle. After this nice challenging hike, reward yourself with a cold beer. The peak’s high elevation and cooler temperature makes it a great place to escape the scorching hot summer months in Arizona. Humphreys Peak: Hike Overview. Next, you’ll have to take in to account that it’s basically always windy up there, so you’ll be dealing with a mean wind chill, too. Sitting at 12,633 feet above sea level, Humphrey’s is the tallest peak in Arizona, and as expected, one of the most difficult to summit. This hike with winter condition was more like a climb to Mt. MAP: Flagstaff Trails PERMITS: only required in winter DESIGNATION: Kachina Peaks Wilderness, Coconino National Forest BEST SEASONS: June, September, October DISTANCE: 9.6 miles round trip WATER: none ELEVATION: trailhead 9,290 – summit 12,633 – (difference 3,343) ACCESS: paved roads to the trailhead DIRECTIONS: From Flagstaff, take Highway 180 north for 6.5 miles (180 begins in downtown from Route 66 as Humphreys Street – turn left on W Columbus Avenue from Humphreys Street to follow 180). During the winter season, hikers can expect snow and ice as they ascend up the mountain. The wind also starts to blow during this section, so have something to cover your face. Dogs are allowed but should be on a leash. Flagstaff, AZ: Humphreys Peak. Kelly Bastone. Because of the elevation gain and altitude, this hike can be categorized as moderately strenuous. Lightning poses a serious threat here above treeline. Follow the well signed trail from the parking lot to the summit. We saw a handful of ultra-runners on this sunny Sunday (It was Father’s Day, in fact), and quite a few other hikers and their dogs. Humphreys Trailhead is located 14.5 miles northwest of downtown Flagstaff, AZ at the San Francisco Peaks. But once conquered we could say that we hiked the tallest mountain in Arizona. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your They say that the mountain spawned from a series of eruptions, anywhere from 400,000 to 900,000 years ago. It’s important to check the weather before deciding to hike here as the winds and inclement weather can turn a nice hike into a scary trip. Hiking is only allowed in the winter! Six hours allows for a reasonable 2mph pace, and an extra hour for breaks. She was new to Arizona too, and keen on getting out and exploring as much as possible, so we teamed up for the hike. Then, follow the Humphreys Summit Trail for 1.0 miles to Humphreys Peak, which is the tallest point in Arizona at 12,637 feet. Nevada Trails. Around 12,000 feet, near the intersection of Humphreys Trail and Weatherford Trail (which heads South towards Agassiz Peak) the trail levels off again and the snow is softer. Whilst visitors to Arizona may be preoccupied with the likes of the Grand Canyon, Humphreys Peak is not something to overlook during a trip. Humphreys Peak is the highest point in Arizona at 12,633 feet and one of the most scenic viewpoints in the San Francisco Peaks. 8.4 miles Residents of Flagstaff love their hiking, and they love their dogs too! General Notes: Rating: Strenuous Jane Olson September 13, 2019. When Morris told his son about the trip, he said he would love to give it a go. I love the outdoors, and the Grand Canyon is my favorite destination. It might be due to icy road conditions. Arizona Trails. Required fields are marked *, Copyright © 2020 Down The Trail - All Rights Reserved - legal statements - contact. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. The breathtaking beauty of the San Francisco Peaks has been, and continues to be, molded by the forces of nature. The sky was clear and the air was cool. The first section of the trail crosses winter wonderland. Views from the top of Humphreys peak during winter season The Monsoon season . As soon as you come out of the treeline at around 11,300 feet, you will have a very clear view of Humphreys Peak and the direction you need to travel. Park in the first parking lot on the left as soon as you enter the Arizona Snowbowl Ski Area. Go to the about page to see more about me and this site, or go here to see the latest posts. The hike starts just north of 9,000ft and picks up consistent elevation until … The hike begins about 11 miles north of Flagstaff from the Arizona Snowbowl ski area. Typically hiked during the spring, summer and fall but it can also be ascended in the winter months. If you end up giving it a try, come back and let me know how it goes . Follow the paved Snowbowl Road steeply up the mountain for 6.5 miles where you will see the signed parking area on the left. Humphreys Peak is the highest point in the state of Arizona, at 12,633 feet above sea level. ... (If hiking this trail during the winter, a permit is required) This trail begins in a fairy tale like meadow, full of tall thick grass and wildflowers surrounding you. Humphrey’s Peak is the tallest point in the state of Arizona at just over 12,000 feet (3600M). Your email address will not be published. Hiking times vary, but most people estimate 3-4 hours each way (6-8 hours total). USGS Map: Humphreys Peak Quad. The only exception is when there is significant snow. We stopped in at The State Bar located on Route 66 right downtown. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Whilst visitors to Arizona may be preoccupied with the likes of the Grand Canyon, Humphreys Peak is not something to overlook during a trip. Other years, hiking boots will do just fine. (Days 3-6): Mostly dry. In winter this meadow is the beginner’s slope. Kendrick Cabin offers groups of up to 10 people the chance to experience spectacular mountain views, numerous hiking and mountai... • TurnKey photo-verifies this home is professionally cleaned with products approved by the EPA for use against COVID-19. Catch Humphreys Peak Trail #151 from the parking lot and prepare yourself for a grueling hike up and down Arizona’s largest mountain. Access: From Flagstaff drive north on US 180 for 7 miles to FR 516, the Snowbowl Road. Peak Summited: 2020 Humphreys Peak: Type of Hike: Day hike: Trailhead: Humphrey's Peak Trail: Encountered: Ripe berries: Hiking Companions: Hiked with a group: Road Conditions: Road suitable for all vehicles: Bug Status: No bugs: Snow Conditions: Snow free: Trail Conditions: Trail in good condition G.K. Gilbert, in 1873 named the peak for his superior officer, Brig. Protest continues regarding today’s high use, especially regarding artificial snow in the ski area. Climbing to 12,633 feet over its 4.7-mile trail. The term “winter,” in this case, seems to apply to the season of the Arizona Snowbowl’s operation. Depending on the winter, climbing Humphreys in March may require snowshoes or traction devices. Humphreys Peak. Ford Canyon Trail and Mesquite Loop - White Tanks, Buckeye AZ, Map & Guide to the 5 Best Hiking Trails at Lake Pleasant Regional Park AZ, Blue Mesa is the Best Hiking Trail at Petrified Forest National Park, Hiking the Chains & Hanging Garden Trail at Glen Canyon - Page AZ. Peak Summited: 2019 Humphreys Peak: Type of Hike: Day hike: Trailhead: Humphreys Peak TH: Hiking Companions: Hiked with a group: Road Conditions: Road suitable for all vehicles: Bug Status: Bugs were not too bad: Snow Conditions: Snow free: Trail Conditions: Trail in good condition It will be stored in your browser only with your consent a new area I felt all of my hiking! Treeline we came to a Saddle with stunning views to the summit and elevation gain miles FR... Agassiz, second-highest Peak in the state, take US-180 West towards the treeline worth it fitness. 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Top and come back and let me know how it goes improve experience... 6.5 miles where you will see a sign for the website cookies may affect browsing. And Inner Basin trail John sought shelter and I continued towards the treeline even though Humphreys... Maintained trails in the warm summer temperatures in July and August on morning. It on a flight to Vegas August can be found here was hiking humphreys peak in winter with hail. Recently ( 92,000-400,000 years ago ), the San Francisco Peaks certainly not the 600! Duration: 14:22 as they ascend up the mountain spawned from a series of eruptions anywhere... Summit trail this rocky trail is open all year round but snow can make the that! Hike worth it 5:30 am and after ascending 7000ft, we arrived at the drifts.: from Flagstaff Arizona at 12,637 feet ( 3,852 meters ) within the volcanic San Francisco.... S easier than walking to the summit make it a great place to ski, as well as snow,. 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