Highlights: Amazing scenery and interesting geologyHighlights: Amazing scenery and interesting geology
Near: Flagstaff, AZ
Distance: 2.65 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 400 ft
Clothing: Shoes & windbreaker jacket
Hike Time: 1.5 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Condition: Well maintained trail
Hike Type: Out and Back
This hike takes you to one of the most interesting reminders of the Flagstaff area’s volcanic past.
You’ll start off in a pinion/juniper forest, notice the many victims of the recent bark beetle infestation. The first 2/3’s of the hike follows an old primitive road, the last part of the hike follows a dry wash lined with volcanic cinder sand. Just before entering the cinder cone the forest type changes form juniper/pinion to ponderosa pine forest.
Near the end of the trail, you’ll climb a 6-foot ladder between two portal-like volcanic formations and find yourself within a surreal landscape of rock spires and sheer cliff walls.
Be sure and bring your camera!
Trailhead
Follow Hwy 180 north of Flagstaff approx 30 miles. Look for the road sign for Red Mountain Trail on the west side of Hwy 180. There will be a parking lot and a well-marked trailhead about 1/4 mi off the highway. (Lat:35.53706 Lon:-111.879)
