San Francisco Peaks Near Flagstaff, Arizona

Originally written by Tony Subia

Updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on November 4, 2026

Rising north of Flagstaff, Arizona, the San Francisco Peaks are home to 12,633-foot Humphreys Peak, the highest point in the state. These volcanic mountains offer hiking trails, scenic drives, skiing at Arizona Snowbowl, colorful fall aspens and panoramic views across Northern Arizona. Visitors can explore high-elevation forests, mountain meadows and alpine terrain within Coconino National Forest, including the Kachina Peaks Wilderness.

• San Francisco Peaks Overview
• Cultural Significance
• Best Things To See
• Best Time To Visit
• Hiking Trails
• Scenic Drives
• Winter Activities
• Directions & Access
• Elevation & Weather Safety
• Visitor Tips
• FAQ

San Francisco Peaks Overview

The San Francisco Peaks are a prominent volcanic mountain range immediately north of Flagstaff and one of the defining natural landmarks of Northern Arizona. The range includes several high summits surrounding the eroded core of an ancient volcano, with 12,633-foot Humphreys Peak forming the highest point in Arizona. Much of the mountain landscape lies within Coconino National Forest, including high-elevation forests, alpine terrain, Kachina Peaks Wilderness, Arizona Snowbowl and numerous hiking and scenic recreation areas.

Cultural Significance Of The San Francisco Peaks

The San Francisco Peaks are deeply significant to many Indigenous peoples of the Southwest and remain an important place for ceremony, prayer, gathering traditional plants and maintaining cultural traditions. Tribes with longstanding connections to the Peaks include the Hopi, Navajo, Zuni, Acoma, Havasupai, Hualapai, Apache and others. Visitors should recognize that the mountains are not only a recreation destination but also a living cultural and sacred landscape.

Why Visit The San Francisco Peaks?

The San Francisco Peaks offer a dramatic change of scenery from Arizona's desert landscapes. Visitors can explore ponderosa pine forests, mountain meadows, aspen groves and high-elevation trails, with sweeping views of the surrounding Colorado Plateau. The area is especially appealing during summer for cooler mountain weather, in fall for golden aspens and in winter for skiing and snow-covered scenery.

The San Francisco Peaks include several prominent summits surrounding the eroded core of an ancient volcano. Humphreys Peak rises to 12,633 feet, followed by Agassiz Peak at 12,356 feet and Fremont Peak at 11,969 feet. Aubineau, Reese and Doyle peaks help form the surrounding high country. From the upper slopes and nearby viewpoints, visitors can see vast portions of the Colorado Plateau, including distant volcanic fields, forests and, on clear days, areas toward the Grand Canyon.

Best Things To See Around San Francisco Peaks

• Humphreys Peak – Arizona's highest summit, with challenging hiking and panoramic mountain views.
• Arizona Snowbowl – Winter skiing and snowboarding, plus seasonal scenic lift rides and mountain recreation.
• Inner Basin – High-elevation hiking through aspen groves, especially popular during fall color season.
• Hart Prairie – Open mountain meadows, seasonal wildflowers, wildlife habitat and views of the Peaks.
• Lava River Cave – A nearby underground lava tube offering an unusual forest recreation experience.
• Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument – Volcanic landscapes, lava flows and interpretive trails east of Flagstaff.
• Wupatki National Monument – Historic ancestral Puebloan sites with distant views of the San Francisco Peaks.

Best Times To Visit The San Francisco Peaks

• Spring (March-May): Snow often remains at higher elevations, particularly during early spring. Lower-elevation trails and scenic drives become more accessible as conditions improve, but mountain roads and trails may remain snow-covered.
• Summer (June-August): Popular for hiking, camping, mountain scenery and escaping the desert heat. Afternoon thunderstorms are common during the summer monsoon season, making early starts important for high-elevation hikes.
• Fall (September-November): Cooler temperatures and changing aspen leaves make early fall especially scenic. Fall colors often peak from late September into October, depending on elevation and weather. Snow may arrive later in the season.
• Winter (December-February): Snow-covered mountains attract visitors for skiing, snowboarding and winter scenery. Arizona Snowbowl is the area's primary downhill skiing destination, while nearby recreation areas offer additional winter activities.

Best overall for hiking: Summer through early fall, depending on snow and weather conditions. Best for fall color: Late September through October. Best for skiing: Winter through early spring, depending on snow conditions and resort operations.

San Francisco Peaks Hiking Trails

The San Francisco Peaks and surrounding Coconino National Forest offer numerous hiking routes ranging from short forest walks to strenuous high-elevation climbs. Conditions can change quickly with elevation, and hikers should prepare for intense sun, wind, thunderstorms, snow and rapidly falling temperatures.

More San Francisco Peaks Hiking Trails

Kachina Trail

• Type: Hiking and equestrian use
• Length: Approximately 5 miles one way
• Difficulty: Moderate
• About: Scenic high-elevation trail through forest, aspen groves and open areas on the southern slopes of the San Francisco Peaks.
• Access: The trailhead is reached from the Arizona Snowbowl area northwest of Flagstaff.
• Tips: Carry water, prepare for rapid weather changes and avoid exposed areas during thunderstorms.

Slate Mountain Trail

• Type:Hiking, Mountain Bike, Equestrian
• Information:(928) 526-0866
• Length:5 miles roundtrip
• Difficulty:Moderate
• About: The summit rewards with awesome views of the San Francisco Peaks and the Grand Canyon. The easy-to-follow trail follows an old road, long closed to vehicles. Signs along the way describing the trees and shrubs.
• Directions: From Flagstaff, drive north on US180 to Forest Road 191. Turn left. The trailhead is two miles from this point.
• Tips: This multi-use trail is open to mountain bikers and horses. No water is available.

Humphreys Peak Trail

• Information: Coconino National Forest, (928) 526-0866
• Length: Approximately 8.7 miles roundtrip
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• About: This high-elevation trail climbs through forests and aspen groves before reaching exposed alpine terrain near the summit of Humphreys Peak. The upper portion is steep, rocky and frequently windy, with expansive views across Northern Arizona.
• Directions: From Flagstaff, travel north on U.S. 180 to Snowbowl Road. Follow Snowbowl Road to the Arizona Snowbowl parking area, where the trailhead is located.
• Tips: Humphreys Peak reaches 12,633 feet. Prepare for altitude effects, strong winds, cold temperatures and rapidly developing thunderstorms. Start early, carry sufficient water and avoid exposed ridges when lightning threatens.

Scenic Drives Around San Francisco Peaks

Scenic roads around the San Francisco Peaks offer views of volcanic mountains, ponderosa pine forests, aspen groves and open meadows. Popular routes include Peaks Loop, Schultz Pass Road, Snowbowl Road and the Volcanoes and Ruins Loop. Some routes include unpaved forest roads, while others are paved and accessible for much of the year. Always check current road conditions and seasonal closures before traveling.

The Peaks Loop follows forest roads around the San Francisco Peaks and provides access to hiking, mountain biking, wildlife viewing and colorful aspen groves. Road surfaces and seasonal access can vary, and portions may close because of snow, mud, wildfire restrictions or forest management activities.

Schultz Pass Road provides a scenic forest route with access to hiking, mountain biking and views of the Peaks. Conditions and seasonal closures vary, so check current Coconino National Forest road status before driving.

Snowbowl Road climbs from U.S. 180 toward Arizona Snowbowl through ponderosa pine, mixed conifer and aspen forests. The paved mountain road provides access to hiking, skiing, scenic lift rides and some of the area's most popular fall-color viewpoints.

The approximately 70-mile Volcanoes and Ruins Loop combines Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument and Wupatki National Monument with scenic views of the surrounding volcanic landscape. Visitors can explore lava flows, ancient pueblo sites and interpretive trails. The main park roads are paved, although winter weather and temporary closures may affect access.

Winter Activities At San Francisco Peaks

Winter transforms the San Francisco Peaks into one of Arizona's premier snow-recreation areas. Visitors can ski and snowboard at Arizona Snowbowl, enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing at Arizona Nordic Village, and explore other designated winter recreation areas around Flagstaff. Snow conditions, road access and operating schedules vary throughout the season, so check current conditions before traveling.

More Outdoor Activities Near San Francisco Peaks

Additional recreation near the Peaks includes Lava River Cave, wildlife viewing, camping, mountain biking and volcanic landscapes throughout Coconino National Forest. Arizona Snowbowl also offers seasonal mountain activities outside the winter ski season. Nearby attractions such as Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument and Wupatki National Monument make it easy to combine a visit to the Peaks with a larger Northern Arizona itinerary.

How To Get To San Francisco Peaks

The San Francisco Peaks are immediately north of Flagstaff and are reached primarily from U.S. 180 and U.S. 89. Snowbowl Road branches from U.S. 180 and provides access to Arizona Snowbowl, Humphreys Peak Trail and other mountain recreation areas. Numerous Forest Service roads provide additional access around the lower slopes, but seasonal closures and road conditions vary throughout the year.

How The San Francisco Peaks Formed

The San Francisco Peaks are the eroded remains of a large volcanic mountain within the San Francisco Volcanic Field of Northern Arizona. Volcanic activity shaped the region over millions of years, leaving hundreds of volcanic features across the surrounding landscape. Erosion and past volcanic activity created the high summits, steep slopes and broad Inner Basin visible today. Nearby Sunset Crater erupted much more recently and provides another dramatic example of the region's volcanic history.

San Francisco Peaks Elevation And Weather Safety

Elevation is one of the most important considerations when visiting the San Francisco Peaks. Many recreation areas are above 8,000 feet, and Humphreys Peak reaches 12,633 feet. Temperatures are generally cooler than in Flagstaff, and conditions can change rapidly as visitors climb into higher mountain terrain.

Altitude And Hiking Conditions

Visitors arriving from lower elevations may experience shortness of breath, fatigue or headaches while hiking. Allow time to adjust to the elevation, drink water regularly and avoid pushing beyond your physical limits. Severe or worsening altitude-related symptoms require prompt descent and medical attention.

Summer Thunderstorms

Afternoon thunderstorms are a significant concern during Arizona's summer monsoon season, particularly on exposed ridges and near the summit of Humphreys Peak. Start strenuous hikes early, monitor weather forecasts and turn around if thunderstorms threaten. Avoid exposed high ground when lightning is possible.

Snow, Wind And Seasonal Closures

Snow can remain on high-elevation trails well into spring, and winter storms may create hazardous road and hiking conditions. Strong winds and sudden temperature drops are possible throughout the year. Before visiting, check current weather forecasts, trail conditions and road restrictions through Coconino National Forest and Arizona Snowbowl.

San Francisco Peaks Visitor Tips

• Check road conditions: Forest roads and mountain access can close because of snow, mud, wildfire restrictions or maintenance.
• Prepare for altitude: Much of the recreation area is above 8,000 feet, and Humphreys Peak reaches 12,633 feet.
• Start hikes early: Summer thunderstorms can develop quickly over the mountains.
• Carry water: Reliable drinking water is not available on many trails.
• Dress in layers: Temperatures can change rapidly with elevation and weather.
• Respect sacred areas: The San Francisco Peaks hold deep cultural and religious significance for numerous Indigenous communities.
• Stay on designated routes: Follow wilderness regulations, trail signs and seasonal restrictions.
• Check current conditions: Verify trail, road, fire and weather information before leaving Flagstaff.

San Francisco Peaks FAQ

Where Are The San Francisco Peaks?

The San Francisco Peaks are immediately north of Flagstaff, Arizona, within Coconino National Forest.

What Is The Highest Peak In Arizona?

Humphreys Peak is the highest point in Arizona at 12,633 feet above sea level.

Can You Hike To The Top Of Humphreys Peak?

Yes. Humphreys Peak Trail climbs to the summit, but it is a strenuous high-elevation hike that requires preparation for altitude, strong winds and rapidly changing weather.

Is Arizona Snowbowl On The San Francisco Peaks?

Yes. Arizona Snowbowl is located on the western slopes of the San Francisco Peaks northwest of Flagstaff.

What Is The Best Time To Visit The San Francisco Peaks?

Summer and early fall are popular for hiking, scenic drives and mountain recreation, while winter is best for skiing and snow activities. Fall color typically attracts visitors during late September and October.

Can You Drive Around The San Francisco Peaks?

Yes. Several paved and unpaved scenic routes provide access around the Peaks, including Snowbowl Road, Peaks Loop routes and Schultz Pass Road. Seasonal closures and road conditions should be checked before traveling.

Why Are The San Francisco Peaks Sacred?

The mountains have longstanding cultural and spiritual importance to numerous Indigenous peoples of the Southwest and continue to be used for prayer, ceremonies, traditional plant gathering and other cultural practices.

Are The San Francisco Peaks Volcanic?

Yes. The Peaks are the eroded remains of a large volcano within the San Francisco Volcanic Field of Northern Arizona.

Can You See The Grand Canyon From The San Francisco Peaks?

On clear days, high-elevation viewpoints around the Peaks can provide extremely long-distance views across Northern Arizona toward Grand Canyon country.

Are The San Francisco Peaks Open Year-Round?

Many areas are accessible throughout the year, but individual roads, trails and recreation sites may close seasonally because of snow, wildfire restrictions, weather or forest management activities.

More Information

Coconino National Forest
1824 S. Thompson St.
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
928-527-3600

Camping in the Peaks District
Snowbowl Ski Resort Area

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Flagstaff High Country