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Humphrey's Peak

The summit of Humphrey's Peak is the highest elevation in Arizona at 12,633 feet and one of the scenic rises among the San Francisco Peaks just north of Flagstaff, Arizona. Humphrey's, according to many avid hikers is the "best hike in Arizona" where those that reach the summit are rewarded with distant views of the Grand Canyon and Oak Creek Canyon as well as a 360 degree panoramic of the valley of beauty just below the Peak.

Hiking Humphrey's Trail.

Getting to the trail head is easy and what is a mild beginning with meadows of wild flowers will eventually become a difficult and strenuous climb. A warning.....keep your eye on the sky. At this altitude, weather can suddenly become violent with storms that can bring strong winds, heavy rain, lightning and snow. Be prepared to turn around and trek back to lower elevation when thunderstorms occur and always be ready for bad weather conditions.

Along its 4.5 mile course, a thriving alpine forest streaked with huge rock slides and avalanche tracks hugs the mountain's slopes. Scenic Hart Prairie stretches out the base of the incline and on clear days the Grand Canyon is easily visible on the horizon.

Climbing Humphreys Peak The trail is steep with a quick 3,333 foot elevation gain and becomes very rocky at it's higher reaches. The trail begins with wild flower covered meadows before reaching a dense forest of aspen, fir and spruce trees as it reaches the saddle connecting Humphrey's Peak with its sister peak, Agassiz.

Near the tree line, the thick forest is quickly left behind and replaced with bent and twisted bristlecone pines and plants that can only survive in tundra conditions. Those that have never hiked Humphrey's Trail can expect to reach three false summits before being rewarded with views from Arizona's highest point.

The Hiking Facts.

Trail Length: 4.5 miles one way.
Elevation Range: 9,300 to 12,633 feet.
Elevation Gain: 3,333 feet.
Summit Peak: 12,633 feet.
Trail Rating: Strenuous.
Hiking Time: 3 hours one way.
Hike Volume: Moderate to heavy.
Hiking Season: Late spring to fall.
Winter Permits: Required
Camping: No camping above tree line.

Getting To Humphrey's Peak Trail.

Humphrey's is located 14.5 miles northwest to Flagstaff, Arizona. Take US 180 north for 7 miles, then Snowbowl Road (FR 516) for 7.4 miles to the Snowbowl lower parking lot. Find the Humphrey's trailhead at the north end of the parking lot. All roads are paved.

Hotel Accommodations.

Choose from a wide variety of hotels in Flagstaff Az from economy to luxury lodging. Also see Flagstaff bed and breakfasts. Flagstaff features many attractions, has an active nightlife and fine restaurants.