Humphreys Peak Trail at Coconino National Forest near Flagstaff, Arizona is a strenuous 10.1-mile out-and-back hike that leads to the summit of Humphreys Peak, Arizona's highest natural point, and features panoramic views.
Hike
This 10.1 mile out-and-back hike starts in a meadow before leading into wooded switch packs that run up the mountain. The trail ascends into the alpine zone above the treeline, passing a boulder field with loose rocks which takes you to Humphrey Peak -- Arizona’s highest point, located around mile 5. The last mile the trail is hard at times to locate so you will use wooden marker post to guide you along the path. Before hitting the trail, you might want to consider downloading an offline mapping app (like the MyHikes app) to ensure you stay on-trail during the steep ridge traverse. Hikers will reach the summit around mile 5, located at 12,633-feet above sea level. The views from the top of Humphreys Peak are vast panoramics that stretch for over 100 miles into the distance. After exploring the top of the mountain, the hike back down follows the same route. Hikers should be cautious of the ridge traverse with a lack of trail blazes (following wooden posts instead). Hike down the switchbacks through the forest and reach the parking lot to complete this 10.1-mile out-and-back hike to the summit of Humphreys Peak.
Parking
Hikers will find a very large parking lot at the coordinates provided.
Pets
Dogs are allowed only if leashed and must be cleaned up after.
Warning
Exposure: This trail leads up to 12,633-feet above sea level where approximately 2.5-miles of hiking is through exposed rocky terrain with minimal or no shade. Depending on the time of year, this could mean intense winds, rain, snow, or ice. Always plan your hike by watching the weather and finding a good weather window to attempt a summit push. If the weather gets bad, the best thing you can do is turn back immediately. Last, always check the temperature before heading out -- if hiking in the summer or warm months, plan a very early hike to ensure you do not have to battle the heat.
Steep terrain: This hike passes steep terrain along mountain ridges. Hikers should be comfortable with this type of open and steep mountain environment before committing to the trail.
Rattlesnakes: Arizona is home to rattlesnakes and other venomous snakes that like to den in exposed rocky areas. This trail may not have an active den nearby, but hikers should be on the lookout for any rattlers they find on or near the trail and to give them plenty of space.
Lack of water: Once above the tree line, the trail has no access to water. Ensure you bring at least 2 liters of water per person per day when hiking this trail.
Hike
This 10.1 mile out-and-back hike starts in a meadow before leading into wooded switch packs that run up the mountain. The trail ascends into the alpine zone above the treeline, passing a boulder field with loose rocks which takes you to Humphrey Peak -- Arizona’s highest point, located around mile 5. The last mile the trail is hard at times to locate so you will use wooden marker post to guide you along the path. Before hitting the trail, you might want to consider downloading an offline mapping app (like the MyHikes app) to ensure you stay on-trail during the steep ridge traverse. Hikers will reach the summit around mile 5, located at 12,633-feet above sea level. The views from the top of Humphreys Peak are vast panoramics that stretch for over 100 miles into the distance. After exploring the top of the mountain, the hike back down follows the same route. Hikers should be cautious of the ridge traverse with a lack of trail blazes (following wooden posts instead). Hike down the switchbacks through the forest and reach the parking lot to complete this 10.1-mile out-and-back hike to the summit of Humphreys Peak.
Parking
Hikers will find a very large parking lot at the coordinates provided.
Pets
Dogs are allowed only if leashed and must be cleaned up after.
Warning
Exposure: This trail leads up to 12,633-feet above sea level where approximately 2.5-miles of hiking is through exposed rocky terrain with minimal or no shade. Depending on the time of year, this could mean intense winds, rain, snow, or ice. Always plan your hike by watching the weather and finding a good weather window to attempt a summit push. If the weather gets bad, the best thing you can do is turn back immediately. Last, always check the temperature before heading out -- if hiking in the summer or warm months, plan a very early hike to ensure you do not have to battle the heat.
Steep terrain: This hike passes steep terrain along mountain ridges. Hikers should be comfortable with this type of open and steep mountain environment before committing to the trail.
Rattlesnakes: Arizona is home to rattlesnakes and other venomous snakes that like to den in exposed rocky areas. This trail may not have an active den nearby, but hikers should be on the lookout for any rattlers they find on or near the trail and to give them plenty of space.
Lack of water: Once above the tree line, the trail has no access to water. Ensure you bring at least 2 liters of water per person per day when hiking this trail.
