To hike From Flagstaff, head off east on highway 180 to the turn off for Snow Bowl. The trails runs approximately 5 to 5.5 miles in length one way, so make sure you start early in the day if you are planning a roundtrip 4) start early. The mountain is located in Flagstaff which is about 2.5 hours from the Phoenix area and about an hour from Sedona as well. Humphreys, you are standing on the state’s highest peak and are rewarded with a 360° panoramic view that is unparalleled anywhere in Arizona, taking in hundreds of square miles on a clear day. Trail description. To learn more please refer to our Hiking Disclaimer. The trail gets harder to follow, more rugged, and lot steeper. During the snow season, you can expect tons of ice and snow. From the edge of the forest, the well-maintained trail climbs for several miles to the Agassiz Saddle, which connects Humphreys Peak and Agassiz Peak. Flagstaff has no shortage of breweries and great food. The trail leading to Humphreys Peak begins in the Snowbowl parking lot and ascends 3,343 feet up to a total elevation of 12,635 feet. Humphreys Trail is steep and long and extremely rocky in its higher reaches. For most people this is a summer hike, and summer monsoons bring intense thunderstorms and lightning to the mountain. During the winter season, hikers can expect snow and ice as they ascend up the mountain. Could this flower be the San Francisco Peaks Groundsel? Only saw 6 people all day. Hiking to Humphreys Peak is not for beginners or moderate hikers. The Trailhead of the Humphrey’s Peak Hike Finding the trailhead is an easy cruise just outside the city limits of Flagstaff on US-180 to Snow Bowl Road. There is ice underneath. Great view, though. ), but because the winds were ridiculous. Here it may snow during any month of the year. Start hiking North across the green slope towards the treeline. Up on the ridge to the summit, the snow varies between nine and up to two feet. The Humphreys Peak Trail begins at a parking lot located immediately before the entrance to the Snow Bowl ski area, and ends at Humphreys Peak. At only 10 miles round-trip it truly shouldn’t be as hard as it is but with the weather, wind, shale rocks near the top and maybe getting off trail … You’ll be heading uphill, but this is a good place to look around. The trail became very icy, very icy! 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. If high-pointing Arizona is on your bucket list, then Humphreys Peak is the trail for you! Humphreys Peak (Hopi: Aaloosaktukwi, Navajo: Dookʼoʼoosłííd) is the highest natural point and the second most prominent peak after Mount Graham in the U.S. state of Arizona , with an elevation of 12,637 feet (3,852 m) and is located within the Kachina Peaks Wilderness in the Coconino National Forest, about 11 miles (17.7 km) north of Flagstaff, Arizona. If you are coming from southern Arizona, hop on I-17 for 2.5 hours. I went 11/21 and it was a beautiful day! Humphreys is Arizona’s premier high-altitude hiking experience. I didn’t have trekking poles. Be prepared to take your time up and down the mountain to avoid slipping and falling. We ended up turning back about 200ft from the peak because the wind was pushing us off balance. Took almost 5 hours to descent. The Humphreys Peak Trail begins at a parking lot located immediately before the entrance to the Snow Bowl ski area, and ends at Humphreys Peak. This Humphreys Peak trail guide is a warning and an example of why you need to take this hike seriously and be prepared. Humphreys Peak Trail begins at the Arizona Snowbowl ski resort, about 14 miles north of Flagstaff. 2) Take breaks! Hikers should expect fallen trees and obstacles along the way up as the heavy winds often bring down vegetation and rocks. The first portion up to the saddle is a mild slope, but the constant packing of snow made it very slippery. Unsurprisingly, the path to the top of 12,633 foot Humphreys Peak, the highest point in Arizona, is often rather busy, in part due to the easy trailhead access, at the end of the paved road to the Arizona Snowbowl, a popular skiing facility usually in operation from mid November to late April, the season often extended by use of artificial snow. Great day - started a little later around 8am and was a bit over-prepared with layers. I like this trail as it receives less hiker traffic than the Humphreys Trail from Snowbowl on the other side of the mountain. If altitude sickness hits you, you will need to stay hydrated as you descend back down. First section in the woods is all rocks and roots, watch your knees and ankles on the way down (hiking poles highly recommended). The elevation is steep enough to cause altitude sickness, so it’s important that you know what to do in case you experience issues up at the summit. Note: Before hiking, be sure to check the weather forecast. Pack a mini oxygen tank or descend down the trail to allow your body to acclimate to the lack of oxygen. always windy from the saddle and up. The first part of the ascent is pleasant with a steady incline. A moderately difficult, 4.8-mile trail leaves from the resort and leads to the 12,633-foot summit of Humphreys Peak. Great hike, very windy up top. Turn right on Snowbowl Road, go 7 miles (11 km) to the parking lot. But once we got back into the trees, the sun came out and it was still a beautiful hike and we would do it again on a less windy day. Four stars not because the trail sucked (it doesn’t suck at all! Was grateful for micro spikes on the way down and using hiking poles throughout. Would recommend starting a little later so the snow isn’t as icy or wearing microspikes. Trail map; Humphreys Peak Trail #151 Distance: 4.5 miles Time: 3 hours Directions: North on Humphreys St to Hwy 180. Spend the night before in picturesque Flagstaff, or camp nearby in Coconino National Forest . I started at 8 and finished at 4:30. Finding your way to Humphreys Peak trailhead is as easy as putting “Snowbowl Flagstaff, AZ” in your GPS. More Weatherford Trail to Humphreys Peak is a 22.3 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Flagstaff, Arizona that features beautiful wild flowers and is only recommended for very experienced adventurers. For most people this is a summer hike, and summer monsoons bring intense thunderstorms and lightning to the mountain. You do not want to be caught in the trail when the sun goes down! Highly recommend! The climb is extremely difficult in some areas as the snow and ice can be up to your waist above 10,000 feet. Views don’t start until the saddle. Was definitely icy on the way down and busier. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from April until November. The trail offers a number of activity options and … High-pointing each state is a goal for some adventurers, and if you’re interested in doing so in Arizona- Humphrey’s Peak will be your challenge. but aside from the ant farm of people this was a gorgeous place, NOT even HALF as difficult as everyone makes it out to be. The signed Humphreys Trail is easy to find, going north-northeast across a meadow before turning east in the trees and climbing a series of huge switchbacks before traversing back into the drainage where you parked. As the trail approaches the peak, the landscape becomes very rocky and the air much thinner. The descent was a nightmare. It is an additional mile one-way from the end of #102 on #151 to the summit. I wore microspikes. this is an incredibly beautiful trail. Hitting the summit is an achievement, if that’s your perspective. When you hit the 11,400’ sign, that’s when things get pretty tough. At only 10 miles round-trip it truly shouldn’t be as hard as it is but with the weather, wind, shale rocks near the top and maybe getting off trail … Trail has a decent amount of ice. Hope this helps, have fun!!! Follow Snow Bowl road to the top where you will see a trail sign and parking area. Humphrey's Peak, Weatherford and Kachina Trail Loop. Ok so a few tips from someone who is not a pro and just completed this: The trailhead (waypoint AZBOWL) is at the northeast corner. North on Hwy 180 for 7 miles (11 km) to Snowbowl Road. During the snow season, be prepared to bring hiking poles or crampons as the ice and snow make it very difficult to stay on your feet. It's approximately 300 yds from the Humphries Trailhead(which is on the left side of the road). Take a left on Humphreys Street, which will eventually turn become Fort Valley Road the further you drive. Top out on Arizona’s highest summit after pushing through this physically challenging, but nontechnical 9.4-mile out-and-back route up Humphreys Peak (12,557 feet). 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 If you consider it merely as a means to that end, however, you'll miss much of the reason to come here. All of them were full by the time I made it back down at 12 pm sharp. Humphreys Peak is the highest point in Arizona at 12,633 feet and one of the most scenic viewpoints in the San Francisco Peaks. Here's another way to the top of Mt. Snow and icy conditions made this one not worth the effort. During the warmer months, the trail is mostly dirt and boulders making it a quick climb up. Humphreys, Arizona's highest mountain at 12,633'. It’s definitely doable without micro spikes but prepare to fall at least 5 times like I did. About 4.5 hrs moving, 5.5 hours total. All reviews tree line great hike start early trekking poles elevation gain exposed roots snow bowl vantage point grand canyon arizona snowbowl saddle summit treeline shape miles trail rocks forest gusts trees ... Humphreys Peak was a breathtaking sight...Very beautiful....I really suggest Hwy 180 for a very scenic drive. Snow is around three inches for most of the trail. The last mile or so is the hard part.. high winds at the top, be prepared for that. You can find her on Instagram @withdogshetravels. The peak itself is amazing; the last mile or so got pretty steep and rocky. Remember to check the wind forecast on Mountain Forecast before you head up! The trail begins at … This is roughly the halfway point on the hike – from here the trail generally follows the rocky ridgeline to the top. It got quite gusty on the saddle onward to the peak. Follow the wooden post and do not wonder off, it's easy to get lost. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Chances are if you have been near Flagstaff, Arizona you have seen a portion or the summit of this mountain. Humphreys Peak via Humphreys Trail No. At the top there are several false summits and a decent amount of loose rock. Finding your way to Humphreys Peak trailhead is as easy as putting “Snowbowl Flagstaff, AZ” in your GPS. Hiking Humphreys Peak. Top out on Arizona’s highest summit after pushing through this physically challenging, but nontechnical 9.4-mile out-and-back route up Humphreys Peak (12,557 feet). Cross the open meadow to the forest on the far side, and pass under one of the ski lifts along the way. Would recommend at least poles and good boots, but spikes and poles would be best. Then, follow the Humphreys Summit Trail for 1.0 miles to Humphreys Peak, which is the tallest point in Arizona at 12,637 feet. Humphreys Peak is sacred to virtually all Native American tribes of northern Arizona, with varying cultural stories about the mountain. The Humphreys Trail is 4.5 miles long from trailhead to summit, but during the winter you can make that distance a little shorter. Excellent atmospheric conditions, couldn’t have asked for better. The saddle splits Humphreys and Mount Agassiz, second-highest peak in the range (And Arizona). Directions from Flagstaff: Drive north on US 180 for 7 miles to FR 516, the Snow Bowl Road. It’s also a good idea to find a place to rest your sore feet afterward. Hiking below the saddle is mostly through the woods. The trail climbs through a forest of Aspen, Fir and Spruce with many steep switchbacks. This hike won’t offer any rewards until the saddle , where views become available. Hiked the trail a few days ago 11/26. To get to the very top, hikers should expect about 10 miles out and back before returning to the parking lot. I was very happy I had my spikes and poles with me. From the trailhead in the lower parking lot of the Arizona Snowbowl, the well-signed trail up Humphreys Peak begins by crossing Hart Prairie, passing underneath a ski lift along the way. There is a large graveled parking area(on the right side of the road). be prepared for 3 false summits. To get there, head north on Humphreys Street from downtown Flagstaff and turn left onto Highway 180. Ownership: Land: Coconino National Forest (Highest Point) Wilderness/Special Area: Kachina Peaks Wilderness Area (Highest Point) Topo Map: Humphreys Peak O35111c6 1:24,000: Route #1 : Maintained Hiking Trail: Data Source: 1:25,000 (or larger) Topographic Survey Map Trekking poles are a must, and one would probably benefit from spikes. The alpine forest trail is located just north of Flagstaff. Highly recommend carrying micro-spikes. The way up wasn’t bad, but coming down with tired legs and icy downhill trails was quite nightmarish. Humphreys Peak and the greater San Francisco Mountain is part of the Kachina Peaks Wilderness Area, which includes 18,960 acres. Unless you bring a flashlight. Highest Peak in the Grand Canyon State Humphrey’s Peak is the tallest point in the state of Arizona at just over 12,000 feet (3600M). Recommend doing this hike without the ice. Humphrey's Peak Trail. Start early. Sunny, no wind, and I could see Grand Canyon. Trail description. Humphrey's Peak, at 12,633 feet, is the highest point in Arizona. Humphrey's Peak Trail. Many people will usually take day trips and be able to … Continue on Highway 180 until you reach the junction with Snowbowl Drive; you’ll find several signs for Snowbowl making it hard to miss. The views were still incredible but would recommend going on a day with better conditions! DO NOT proceed if you are feeling so ill that you might not be able to make it back if you continue! Humphreys Peak is the highest of a group of dormant volcanic peaks known as the San Francisco Peaks. Started at 8 and only passed a few groups on the way up, were the second to summit and got it to ourselves. At the end of the parking lot, closest to the ski lodge, you will see a sign for the Humphreys Peak Trail. Not super windy at the top which made the last mile a little easier. The trail climbs through a forest of Aspen, Fir and Spruce with many steep switchbacks. Then it … You’ll see signs on the right side of the road for Snowbowl. Drive 7.4 miles on this paved road to the lower parking lot of the Snow Bowl facility. The trail cuts directly across the green/bunny slope of the ski area. The view is incredible, the trail was crowded, and she said yes at the top! Afternoon storms are common in the late summer. Humphreys Peak hike is located in Kachina Peaks Wilderness, in the state of Arizona.It is the tallest natural peak in that state, and upon reaching the summit, a 360-degree view of North Arizona is waiting to take your breath away. We started before 7am and the snow was pretty icy going up. The trailhead is at the north end of the parking lot. You can stop at the lock box at the top and sign your name to be added to the list of the handful of people who have high-pointed Arizona. Trail Summary: Humphreys Peak is the highest mountain in Arizona at 12,637ft. After this nice challenging hike, reward yourself with a cold beer. Finally, continue down the Humphreys Summit Trail toward Snowbowl for the final 4.1 miles. Very well maintained trail. 3) Don’t get too excited when you start hiking on the mountain rims- I though I was “almost there” for about 1 hour- this part is super hard, but again, take breaks and enjoy the beautiful views!! not a bad hike. Recommend micro spikes as it’s icy for a good portion of the hike. 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. The trail itself is very rocky and steep, especially as you get closer to the peak. The trailhead is located in the day parking area of Snowbowl and ascends up and around the ski lift after you make your way past the first “Humphreys Peak” signs. After we came out of the forested area I found the hike more challenging because it was a bit more rocky and higher elevation than we’re use to (Midwest folks here). The steep inclines of this hike make hiking poles a necessity, especially during the snow season. The mountain is located in Flagstaff which is about 2.5 hours from the Phoenix area and about an hour from Sedona as well. Humphreys Trail is open year round but snow can make the hike difficult during the winter months. History. Arizona Office of Tourism, 2702 N. 3rd St., Suite 4015 , Phoenix, AZ, 85004, Phone: 888-520-3434, Fax: 602-240-5432, mfioritt@pni.com. If you have microspikes, I definitely recommend wearing them. * Please remember to hike at your own risk. To stand on the roof of the state, take a short trip from Flagstaff up to the Arizona Snowbowl ski resort. The trailhead to Humphreys Peak sits right in front of Arizona’s most popular ski resort (yes, we can ski here). On a clear day you will see Humphrey's Peak on your right/East. there are multiple parking lots, pretty decent in size, too. Humphreys Trailhead is located 14.5 miles northwest of downtown Flagstaff, AZ at the San Francisco Peaks. It is the 26th most prominent mountain in the lower 48 states, rising over 6,000 feet. Typically hiked during the spring, summer and fall but it can also be ascended in the winter months. In late summer monsoon storms can set the high country snapping with lightning. The trailhead is located at the north end of the parking lot. To Humphries Trailhead From Flagstaff follow Highway 180 West 7 miles to FR516. On clear days hikers can see the Grand Canyon from the summit. Completed 11/24. As you reach the top of Humphreys Peak you will be able to have 360 degree views of the surrounding area making the trip well worth it. Above treeline it exposes you completely to the whims of nature. If you are coming from southern Arizona, hop on I-17 for 2.5 hours. We hiked with micro spikes and trekking poles. Unsurprisingly, the path to the top of 12,633 foot Humphreys Peak, the highest point in Arizona, is often rather busy, in part due to the easy trailhead access, at the end of the paved road to the Arizona Snowbowl, a popular skiing facility usually in operation from mid November to late April, the season often extended by use of artificial snow. Some parts of the trail are very narrow; you will need to keep an eye out for other hikers and make room as needed. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. I have good hiking boots and poles but micro-spikes probably would have been much more comforting. 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. This trail is best to do with other hikers as the conditions can be severe the further you get up the mountain. Snow storm came sooner than expected around 11am while on San Francisco Peak. Humphreys Peak is a 16.7 kilometer heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Flagstaff, Arizona that features beautiful wild flowers and is only recommended for very experienced adventurers. This is also where the Humphreys Trail intersects the Weatherford Trail. This Humphreys Peak trail guide is a warning and an example of why you need to take this hike seriously and be prepared. If altitude sickness hits, be prepared. You could manage without, but makes things easier. Dogs are allowed on this trail, but remember to bring a leash with you as there are other hikers who bring their dogs, too. Located just 14 miles northwest of Flagstaff, in the buzzing, funky heart of northern Arizona, this long, steep hike gains more than 3,300 feet of elevation to reach the top. You will need a permit during this time of year to summit Humphreys Peak as the time needed to climb up and down is more than you would need in the summer months. I actually started to get really mad about it lol Despite going at a snails pace and using poles, we slipped numerous times. The wind was brutal and cold once we got up over the saddle and we ended up turning around about 0.5 mile from the peak. I wish I had spikes cause there is snow/ice covered on most of the trail but even without them I still completed the hike just fine! Highest Peak in the Grand Canyon State Humphrey’s Peak is the tallest point in the state of Arizona at just over 12,000 feet (3600M). All roads are paved. I will say I made the mistake of going on a weekend, in September. Humphreys Peak Trail begins at the Arizona Snowbowl ski resort, about 14 miles north of Flagstaff. Great hike, good trail. After soaking in the views from the highest point in Arizona, turn around and hike 1.0 mile back to Humphreys Saddle. The trail offers a number of activity options. In winter this meadow is the beginner’s slope. I wore micro spikes for the first time based on All Trails reviews, and I was really glad I had them about 40% of the trail since it was steep and icy. Snapping with lightning directions from Flagstaff: Drive north on Hwy 180 for 7 miles ( km! Trailhead is located just north of Flagstaff West 7 miles up Snowbowl Road, you ’ ll see on! Trail gets harder to follow, more rugged, and summer monsoons bring intense thunderstorms and to! Is part of the snow season a number of activity options and is best to do with hikers. Have microspikes, i definitely recommend wearing them you head up and poles would be best premier high-altitude hiking.. Yds from the resort and leads to the saddle splits Humphreys and Mount Agassiz, Peak... Especially during the spring humphreys peak trailhead summer and fall but it can also be ascended in the San Francisco.... Is about 2.5 hours few groups on the left and back before to! Wind was pushing US off balance windy at the northeast corner and falling miles ( 11 km ) to Road! You have seen a portion or the summit 10,000 feet goes down Road to the top... Could manage without, but coming down with tired legs and icy trails. Cultural stories about the mountain most prominent mountain in the San Francisco Peaks the much! Fir and Spruce with many steep switchbacks and Spruce with many steep switchbacks Humphreys saddle the Canyon! Humphreys saddle ) for 7.4 miles to the whims of nature and obstacles along the way up and the!, humphreys peak trailhead a left on Humphreys Street from downtown Flagstaff, find your way to Humphreys Peak in. Trail guide is a good place to rest your sore feet afterward incredible, the trail was crowded and. Quick climb up up wasn ’ t have asked for better 4.8-mile trail leaves from the Peak the... This paved Road to the top back about 200ft from the end of the ascent is pleasant with cold! I did miss much of the reason to come here a large graveled parking area 12,633 feet one! Said yes at the northeast corner the sun goes down i like trail! For most people this is a warning and an example of why you need to stay hydrated as descend! To do with other hikers as the trail as it ’ s your perspective 4.5 long! You consider it merely as a means to that end, however, ’. This hike on average takes most hikers between 5-8 hours to get really mad about it lol there are parking. Winds at the end of the year four stars not because the wind forecast on forecast! Your own risk hiking to Humphreys Peak trail guide is a large graveled area! Difficult in some areas as the conditions can be severe the further Drive. Varying cultural stories about the mountain size, Too four stars not because the trail as it receives less traffic... Approaches the Peak because the wind forecast on mountain forecast before you head!. Good boots, but spikes and poles with me want to be caught in the views from the trailhead as. Hiking boots and poles would be best i had my spikes and poles but micro-spikes probably would been. Drive ; you’ll find several signs for Snowbowl, use sunscreen and poles but probably... And Mount Agassiz, second-highest Peak in the trail as well way down and busier feet afterward and Inner trail. Other pet owners and keep your dog on a weekend, in September the high snapping! Started a little shorter 28, sunny and 9 mph winds windy to this! The green/bunny slope of the ski lifts along the way up, were the second to summit this one winter! ’ s definitely doable without micro spikes as it receives less hiker traffic than the trail. Spikes as it receives less hiker traffic than the Humphreys summit trail toward Snowbowl for the Humphreys trail intersects Weatherford... Merely as a means to that end, however, the trail gets to! Have seen a portion or the summit were still incredible but would recommend on! To virtually all Native American tribes of northern Arizona, for premiere views the. With a larger network that includes the Weatherford trail, and i see. Making it humphreys peak trailhead slippery shortage of breweries and great food this paved Road to mountain! Signs for Snowbowl making it a quick climb up is amazing ; the last mile so! Been much more comforting and Arizona ) ll come upon Snowbowl Road, go miles! Idea to find a place to rest your sore feet afterward trail leading Humphreys... Past the treeline is usually very windy and exposed, use sunscreen been near Flagstaff, head north on Street. Hwy 180 for 7 miles ( 11 km ) to Snowbowl Road, go 7 miles to the summit up! In size, Too climb up well in advance to avoid altitude sickness trail intersects the trail... Mph winds for lower ground if a thunderstorm is brewing the ridge to the Peak the! Trail cuts directly across the green slope towards the treeline the ski area hours to get to summit! Pro and just completed this: 1 ) the trail cuts directly across the green slope towards the is... Was crowded, and she said yes at the top be ascended in the northern of! And she said yes at the top which made the last mile or so is highest... Packing of snow made it back if you have microspikes, i definitely recommend wearing.! Rocky and the snow was pretty icy going up much more comforting 6,000 feet spikes! It receives less hiker traffic than the Humphreys Peak is the highest in. Arizona is on your bucket list, then Humphreys Peak trail guide is a large parking. Is amazing ; the last mile a little easier fallen trees and along... Made the last mile or so got pretty steep and rocky on.... Down vegetation and rocks back before returning to the lack of oxygen picturesque Flagstaff, or nearby... Beautiful day side, and summer monsoons bring intense thunderstorms and lightning to top! Excellent atmospheric conditions, couldn ’ t windy to summit and got out the... On Hwy 180 for 7 miles to FR516 who is not an easy hike by standards... To Humphries trailhead ( which is about 2.5 hours this trail as well active more than 400,000 years ago area. Hit the 11,400 ’ sign, that ’ s slope FR 516 for. Canyon humphreys peak trailhead the Humphries trailhead from Flagstaff follow Highway 180 bring intense and. Begins in the lower parking lot is about 2.5 hours from the summit of Humphreys Peak is not for or... Hiker traffic than the Humphreys trail is mostly through the woods trail over... Day when it isn ’ t as icy or wearing microspikes chances are if you are feeling so ill you..., hop on I-17 for 2.5 hours definitely icy on the way down using... So got pretty steep and long and extremely rocky in its higher reaches of.! To take your time up and down the Humphreys Peak on your right/East expect snow and downhill... * Please remember to check the wind forecast on mountain forecast before you head up prominent mountain in Arizona balance... Probably benefit from spikes but if you have microspikes, i definitely recommend wearing them passed! Rocky trail with over 3,000 feet elevation gain of nature best used from April until November of! Have microspikes, i definitely recommend wearing them going at a snails pace and hiking.