Posted in Arizona April 20, 2020 by

One Of Arizona’s Most Stunning Natural Wonders, Humphreys Peak Stands 12,600 Feet Above Sea Level

While the Grand Canyon is inarguably the most majestic natural wonder in Arizona, our incredible mountains deserve recognition, as well. Humphreys Peak is the highest point in the state, towering nearly 13,000 feet into the clouds.

Humphrey's Peak is the highest natural point in Arizona, with an elevation of over 12,600 feet.
Flickr/Andrew Petro
The mountain is located just north of Flagstaff, within the Kachina Peaks Wilderness in the Coconino National Forest.
This natural wonder is part of the San Francisco Peaks, a dormant stratovolcano complex that collapsed around 200,000 years ago due to a lateral eruption.
Flickr/Coconino National Forest
Part of the Arizona Snowbowl ski resort, the mountain range provides a plethora of recreation opportunities -- especially during winter.
Flickr/Coconino National Forest
The area receives, on average, over 250 inches of snowfall per year, and the coverage draws crowds by the thousands for activities like skiing.
To experience the mountain firsthand, the 10.5-mile Humphreys Peak Trail leads straight to its summit.
Flickr/Andrew Petro
This challenging out-and-back hike begins at the Snowbowl and features steep uphill climbs that lead to one of the most expansive scenes in Arizona.
If you do attempt the arduous trek, make sure to pack ample gear, food, and water, and leave enough time to get back down before dark (read: start in the morning.)
Flickr/Andrew Petro
Not being in a hurry means you can soak up the stunning panoramic views, which encompass the Painted Desert, Verde Valley, and even the Grand Canyon.
Although it's not advised to be on the mountain itself at night, you can most certainly enjoy the spectacle from ground level.
Flickr/Coconino National Forest
On clear nights, you just might catch a glimpse of the Milky Way band!
All in all, Humphreys Peak is a highly underrated destination in our great state.
Flickr/Coconino National Forest
Whether you just want to look or attempt to conquer the skyscraping monolith, rest assured it'll be an adventure not soon forgotten.

Sadly, Humphreys Peak Trail is closed right now amid the COVID-19 pandemic, but we’d still love to hear all about your prior experiences! Keep up with the AllTrails page to be first to know when the hike reopens!

Have you ever hiked Humphreys Peak, or just viewed it from a distance? Let us know your thoughts on this majestic natural wonder! Check out our previous article for a much lower-effort way to experience the mountain: Take An Unforgettable Scenic Drive Around The Highest Mountains In Arizona.

Are there any natural wonders, businesses, or other attractions in Arizona you think the world should know about? Head over to our nomination page and give them a shoutout — you just might see your submission featured in an upcoming article!

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Address: Humphreys Peak, Arizona 86001, USA