Taking you to the highest point in Arizona, Humphrey’s Peak Trail offers beautiful views all along. The trail is located near Flagstaff, Arizona in the Kachina Peaks Wilderness. It’s an out and back trail with a length of 17.4 kilometers and an elevation gain of 1,032 m.
It’s a challenging and rewarding hike, but before you head out to hike it, you should ask yourself whether you are ready for this. Getting to the highest point in Arizona does seem exciting, but if you are not an experienced hiker, maybe it’s not a good idea for you.
The hike begins from the lower parking lot of the Arizona Snowbowl; this is where the trailhead is located. You will pass below a ski lift and cross art Prairie. The trail passes through the forest and then the boundary of the Kachina Peaks Wilderness. In the summer season, the trail is easy to follow.
The elevation is very steep and it can cause altitude sickness so it’s important that you be careful about it and know what to do in such a situation. The trail is rocky and steep and the last section is even tougher. You will also have to pass through some narrow sections where you may have to make room for other hikers and avoid contact with them. If you are hiking in winter, you can expect ice and snow. Also, you need a permit to hike this trail during the snow season as you would need more time to complete the hike than in the summer months.
Due to the snow and ice, it could be very difficult to climb so you should be very careful and take your time to avoid slipping. It’s better if you are not hiking alone as the conditions can be very tough once you get closer to the mountain. When you get to the top, you can enjoy amazing views of the surrounding areas and that will make the effort worth it. When you are done enjoying the beautiful views, you can follow the same trail back to the parking lot.