Ascent Expedition to Humphreys Peak

Hiking up Humphreys Peak, Arizona's highest point, offers an unforgettable experience. From the summit, gaze upon the breathtaking landscapes all the way to the Grand Canyon. Let's dive into this guide and make the adventure a breeze.

Finding Humphreys Peak Hike

Your trek begins at the Arizona Snowbowl Ski Area, which is leased from Coconino National Forest. Use this trailhead address for navigation: 9300 N Snow Bowl Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Starting at approximately 9200 feet, prepare for thin air in this area affectionately known as "Arizona's little Colorado."

Hiking Essentials

This high-altitude hike requires careful preparation. Always carry the 10 essentials and be ready for whatever Mother Nature throws at you.
Mountain weather can be unpredictable, especially above the tree-line. Plan for cooler and windier conditions.
A satellite communicator is highly recommended for emergencies, as cell reception may be inconsistent.
Around 1-2 liters of water usually suffice, but be mindful of hot temperatures. Remember, there are no water sources available along the trail.
Trekking poles can provide stability on steep slopes.
Early season hikers might encounter snow and require micro-spikes for added traction.

Osprey Hikelite 26 - My go-to daypack. Light, tough, and keeps my back dry with the trampoline mesh.

My Top Picks for Gear

Osprey Hikelite 26 - A light, rugged daypack perfect for keeping your back dry and essentials close.
Norda 001 - A combination of off-road capabilities and cushioned comfort for your feet.
Garmin inReach Mini 2 - A reliable, satellite-enabled device designed for emergency situations in remote areas.
AllTrails Plus - Get up-to-date trip reports, offline maps, alerts, and Garmin sync at a 30% discount.
Garmin Fenix 8 - Improved and durable GPS watch for maps, tracking, and routing.

Norda 001 - Like a monster truck and a comfy pillow had a featherweight baby, for your feet.

Find detailed explanations about my current gear favorites on my Top Gear Picks page (last updated June 2025).

Trail Maps for Humphreys Peak

Garmin inReach Mini 2 - When I need 100% reliable SOS coverage, this is what I take in the backountry.

View Hike on CalTopo - Download GPX File

Elevation Profile

AllTrails Plus - (30% off link) Up-to-date trip reports. Plus adds offline maps, off-trail alerts, and Garmin sync.

Tackling Humphreys Peak Tips

Keep altitude sickness in mind, as the peak exceeds 12000 feet. Staying at altitude or in Flagstaff before your hike can help you acclimatize.
The trail is generally free of snow from June to October.
Stay alert to potential thunderstorms above the treeline during hiking season, and be quick to retreat to safety if thunder is heard. Start at sunrise to minimize the risk.
Campsites are not official along the trail, but dispersed camping below 11,400 feet and away from the ski area is allowed.

Garmin Fenix 8 - Took a few updates to get right, but now it's rock solid for me. I use it for maps, tracking, and routing.

Humphreys Peak Hike Walkthrough

This area is sacred to many Native Peoples, including the Hopi, Navajo, and Apache. Look out for remnants of a crashed B-24 bomber from 1944.

Beyond the scree field, the trail becomes exposed and vulnerable to weather conditions. If inclement weather approaches, turn back to avoid trouble.

As you continue towards the summit, keep an eye out for captivating vistas and Hopi spirit beings, or Kachinas.

The hiking adventure begins at the Arizona Snowbowl Ski Area, leased from Coconino National Forest. Use the trailhead address for navigation: 9300 N Snow Bowl Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001.

Prepare for thin air in this high-altitude hike, affectionately known as "Arizona's little Colorado." Essential gear, including the 10 essentials, trekking poles, and water, is a necessity due to unpredictable mountain weather and lack of water sources along the trail.

My go-to daypack for such treks is the Osprey Hikelite 26, offering lightweight, rugged durability, and back safety. For footwear, consider the Norda 001, offering off-road capabilities and cushioned comfort.

In case of emergencies, a satellite communicator like the Garmin inReach Mini 2 is highly recommended. AllTrails Plus can provide up-to-date trip reports, offline maps, alerts, and Garmin sync at a 30% discount.

For those who prefer GPS watches, the Garmin Fenix 8 is a reliable option for maps, tracking, and routing. Remember to stay alert to potential weather changes and obey any regulations regarding dispersed camping.

This area is sacred to many Native Peoples, including the Hopi, Navajo, and Apache, so be respectful of cultural remnants, such as a crashed B-24 bomber from 1944. As you ascend, keep an eye out for captivating vistas and Hopi spirit beings, or Kachinas.