San Francisco Peaks - Coconino NF
Humphreys Peak Trail #151
Summit Arizona's highest peak at 12,633 feet with 360-degree views of the Colorado Plateau
Distance
4.5 miles RT
Difficulty
Advanced
Elevation Gain
~2,600 ft
Best Season
Jun-Sep
Route Overview
Humphreys Peak is the highest point in Arizona at 12,633 feet. The Humphreys Peak Trail #151 is the most direct route to the summit, climbing 2,600 feet over 4.5 miles (round trip) from the Arizona Snowbowl ski area near Flagstaff. The summit offers 360-degree views of the Colorado Plateau, including the San Francisco volcanic field, the Painted Desert, and on clear days, the Grand Canyon.
The trail passes through a dramatic ecological transition: from ponderosa pine forest at the trailhead, through stands of aspen and Engelmann spruce, to the exposed alpine tundra above treeline. The summit ridge is narrow and exposed - weather can change rapidly at this elevation.
While not technically difficult, the altitude and exposure make this a challenging hike. Altitude sickness is a real concern, especially for visitors coming from lower elevations. Start early, watch the weather, and turn back if thunderstorms threaten.
Route Description
Trailhead: The Humphreys Peak Trail #151 begins at the Arizona Snowbowl ski area, approximately 15 miles north of Flagstaff via US-180 and Forest Road 552. The road to the ski area is paved but can be icy in winter and early spring. Parking is available at the ski area base.
Lower Section: The trail begins in dense ponderosa pine forest at approximately 10,000 feet. The initial miles follow an old road bed that climbs steadily through the forest. The grade is moderate but consistent. You'll pass through the ski area's upper boundaries before entering true wilderness.
Treeline: As you climb above 11,500 feet, the forest thins and gives way to krummholz (twisted, stunted trees) and then alpine tundra. The trail becomes steeper and more exposed. This is where altitude effects become most noticeable - take your time and stay hydrated.
Summit Ridge: The final approach to the summit follows a narrow, exposed ridge. The last quarter-mile involves some scrambling over volcanic rock. The summit is marked with a benchmark and offers panoramic views in all directions. The San Francisco Peaks are the eroded remnant of a stratovolcano that was once over 15,000 feet tall.
⚠ Altitude & Weather Warning
The summit is at 12,633 feet - higher than any point in 30 other U.S. states. Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of fitness level. Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. If symptoms worsen, descend immediately.
Thunderstorms: Afternoon thunderstorms are common from July through September (monsoon season). Lightning strikes are a serious danger on the exposed summit ridge. Start before dawn and plan to be off the summit by noon. If you hear thunder or see lightning, descend immediately - do not wait.
Permits & Regulations
Permit Required: No. No permits are required for day use on Humphreys Peak Trail.
Sacred Land: The San Francisco Peaks (Dook'o'ošlíid in Western Apache) are sacred to multiple Native American tribes, including the Navajo, Hopi, Havasupai, Hualapai, Yavapai, and Western Apache. The summit is a site of religious significance. Please respect the cultural importance of this place - stay on the trail, do not build rock cairns, and do not remove any materials.
Ski Area Access: The trail passes through the Arizona Snowbowl ski area. The ski area operates a shuttle during summer hiking season (check their website for schedules and fees). You can also drive the access road yourself.
Dogs: Dogs are permitted on the trail but must be leashed within the ski area. Above treeline, dogs should be under strict control due to fragile alpine vegetation and wildlife.
External Resources
Return to: Arizona Backpacking Regions