San Francisco Peaks
Humphreys Peak Trail
Arizona's highest point - 9 miles round trip to 12,633 feet above sea level
Distance
9 mi RT
Difficulty
Strenuous
Elevation
2,500 ft
Best Season
Jun-Oct
Trail Overview
Humphreys Peak is the highest point in Arizona at 12,633 feet. The trail climbs 2,500 feet in 4.5 miles from Lockett Meadow to the summit, passing through ponderosa pine forest, aspen groves, and alpine tundra. The final push to the summit is above treeline, where you're exposed to weather and the views stretch across northern Arizona.
This is a challenging but non-technical hike. No scrambling or special equipment required, just fitness and acclimatization. The altitude is the main challenge - if you're coming from sea level, spend a day or two in Flagstaff (7,000 feet) first to adjust.
Water is available from streams in the lower sections, but you'll need to carry enough for the summit push.
Trail Milestones
| Mile | Elevation | Feature |
|---|---|---|
| 0.0 | 10,200 ft | Trailhead - Lockett Meadow |
| 1.5 | 10,800 ft | Transition to aspen forest |
| 3.0 | 11,400 ft | Treeline - alpine tundra begins |
| 4.5 | 12,633 ft | Summit - Arizona's highest point |
What It's Really Like
Rated 4.9 out of 5 from over 1,200 reviews, Humphreys Peak is consistently called the most rewarding high-point hike in the Southwest. Reviewers love the sense of accomplishment, the panoramic views, and the unique ecosystem you pass through.
The first half climbs through dense forest. The trail is well-maintained and shaded. You'll pass through ponderosa pine, then spruce-fir, then aspen. The air gets thinner with each switchback.
Above treeline is where the real challenge begins. The trail becomes steeper and more exposed. The air is thin - you'll feel every breath. But the views are incredible: you can see the Grand Canyon to the north, the Painted Desert to the east, and the San Francisco volcanic field stretching to the horizon.
Insider tip from reviewers: Start before 6 AM to avoid afternoon thunderstorms. The summit is exposed and lightning is a real danger. Bring layers - it's 20-30 degrees cooler at the top than in Flagstaff.
Day Hike vs. Overnight
Day Hike Options
- Summit Day: 9 mi RT, ~2,500 ft elevation. Full-day commitment. The classic route.
This is a serious high-altitude hike. Start early and be prepared for weather changes.
Overnight Options
- Inner Basin: Camp in the glacial cirque, then summit the next morning. Split the elevation gain over two days.
Overnight permits required. Obtain from Coconino National Forest.
Water & Safety
Drinking Water: Streams are available in the lower sections, but you'll need to carry 2-3 liters for the summit push. All water must be treated - carry a filter or purification tablets.
Altitude Sickness: The summit is over 12,000 feet. If you're coming from sea level, spend 1-2 days in Flagstaff (7,000 feet) first. Symptoms include headache, nausea, and dizziness. Descend immediately if symptoms worsen.
Weather: The summit is exposed to lightning, wind, and sudden temperature drops. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. Check the forecast and turn back if storms approach.
Emergency: Cell service is available on most of the trail. Coconino National Forest Search and Rescue responds to emergencies. The trailhead is in Lockett Meadow, accessible from US 180 north of Flagstaff.
Permits & Regulations
Day Hiking: No permit required for day hiking. Lockett Meadow trailhead requires a fee or a forest pass.
Overnight Permits: Required for backpacking in the Kachina Peaks Wilderness. Obtain from the Coconino National Forest office in Flagstaff.
- Group size limited to 15 people
- Camp 200 feet from trails and water sources
- No campfires above 11,000 feet
Lockett Meadow: The trailhead is in Lockett Meadow, which has a day-use fee ($5/vehicle) or requires a forest pass.
History & Lore
The San Francisco Peaks are the eroded remnant of a massive stratovolcano that erupted 1 million years ago. The volcano was once as tall as 16,000 feet, but explosive eruptions and glacial erosion wore it down to the peaks you see today. Humphreys Peak is the highest remnant of that ancient volcano.
The peaks are sacred to the Hopi, Navajo, Zuni, and other Native American tribes. They're known as Dook'o'oosłííd in Navajo, meaning "Mountain That Never Melts" because snow persists on the north-facing slopes year-round. The mountains are home to the Kachinas, spiritual beings that bring rain and fertility.
The peak is named for Andrew Humphreys, a Union general and Chief of Engineers of the US Army during the Civil War. The name was given by early explorers and has stuck ever since.
External Resources
- USFS Humphreys Peak Information - Official trail details and conditions
- Coconino National Forest - Forest conditions and alerts
- AllTrails Humphreys Peak - Reviews and GPS tracks
Return to: Arizona Backpacking Regions