Mt. Humphreys, Flagstaff Arizona

Mt. Humphreys is located just outside Flagstaff in Arizona. This towering mount is considered of the regions highest and most prestigious, and is part of a long chain of ancient extinct volcanoes, called the San Francisco Peaks. It reserves it striking terrain for those who cannot get enough of hiking.

Hikers cannot resist the wonders and prospect of meandering along the mountain trails that adorn Mt. Humphreys, Arizona. It is only a stone's throw away from Flagstaff and offers sensational views, including the chance to experience the wonder of this mount and its ancient volcanic past.

Being Arizona's highest peak, its trails reach to its very summit, a four and a half mile hike that starts n the Coconino National Forest. It winds slowly through the Arizona tundra, reaching up to over eleven thousand feet above sea level.

The mountain is easily confused with its equivalent in the Sierra Nevada desert. However, this peak is distinctive because it was called Mt. Humphreys in honor of the Union, American Civil War general, Andrew A. Humphreys, back in 1870. Interestingly enough, it was not renamed on maps until 1903, being known officially as San Francisco Peak. It was not until 1933 that the mistake was corrected.

The peak is also home to many interesting animals and plant life, some of which are endangered or rare. Hikers are asked to respect the sanctity of the area, and to leave no trace wherever possible. It is also important to note that given the changing weather conditions, hikers should go prepared for any type of weather, most especially unexpected thunderstorms.