Hiking
You can explore Arizona's alpine tundra in the San Francisco Peaks, part of the Coconino National Forest, where more than 80 species of plants grow on the upper elevations. The habitat is fragile, so hikers are asked to stay on established trails (there are lots of them). Flatlanders should give themselves a day or two to adjust to the altitude before lengthy or strenuous hiking. The altitude here will make even the hardiest hikers breathe a little harder, so anyone with cardiac or respiratory problems should be cautious about overexertion. Note that most of the forest trails aren’t accessible during winter due to snow.
Coconino National Forest–Flagstaff Ranger District. The rangers of the Coconino National Forest maintain many of the region's trails and can provide you with details on hiking in the area. Excellent maps of the Flagstaff trails are sold here for $12. Both the forest's main office in West Flagstaff and the ranger station in East Flagstaff (5075 N. U.S. 89) are open weekdays 8–4. 1824 S. Thompson St., West Flagstaff, Flagstaff, Arizona, 86001. 928/527–3600; 928/526–0866; fs.usda.gov/coconino.
Kachina Trail. Those who don't want a long hike can do just the first mile or two of the 5-mile-long Kachina Trail; gently rolling, this route is surrounded by huge stands of aspen and offers fantastic vistas. In fall, changing leaves paint the landscape shades of yellow, russet, and amber. Moderate. Flagstaff, Arizona.
Sunset Trail. The 4-mile-long Sunset Trail proceeds with a gradual pitch through the pine forest, emerging onto a narrow ridge nicknamed the Catwalk. By all means take pictures of the stunning valley views, but make sure your feet are well placed. The access road to this trail is closed in winter. Moderate. Off U.S. 180, 3 miles north of downtown Flagstaff, then 6 miles east on FR 420/Schultz Pass Rd., Flagstaff, Arizona.
Elden Lookout Trail. The most challenging trail in the Mount Elden trail system, which happens to be the route with the most rewarding views, is along the steep switchbacks of the Elden Lookout Trail. If you traverse the full 3 miles to the top, keep your focus on the landscape rather than the tangle of antennae and satellite dishes that greets you at the end. Difficult. Flagstaff, Arizona, 86001.
Humphreys Peak Trail. Climbing Arizona’s highest peak is on many a hiker’s bucket list, and this 10-mile round-trip to the 12,600-foot summit will satisfy and delight experienced hikers. You’ll travel the first few miles through meadows and pine forest; then it’s a rocky, steep ascent to the top, where 360-degree views of the Grand Canyon, the Painted Desert, and the Verde Valley await. Beware of the thin air at this altitude—the trail starts at 8,800 feet—and set aside a whole day. Difficult. Trailhead: North end of Snowbowl’s lower parking lot; Snowbowl Rd., off U.S. 180., Flagstaff, Arizona.
