Kachina Peaks Wilderness in Arizona

Kachina Peaks Wilderness in Arizona sits below the majestic Humphrey's Peak, beckoning visitors to come and explore its unique recreation opportunities. It is a rich land, volcanic soils and glacial remains have shaped this land into the beautiful retreat that visitors adore. Whether winter or summer, the call of the wild is never far away.

Richly volcanic and once victim of erosion, what is now one of Arizona's most loved recreation spots, has stood the test of time. The Kachina Peaks Wilderness is an exotic ecosystem that welcomes tourists year round to enjoy relaxation in a way that only it could deliver.

The Wilderness is the remains of a revegetated volcano, a remnant of an ancient eruption that tore the land apart with lava flows and volcanic ash. Great glaciers cut through the hardened mass, leaving the area bare, except for small patches of volcanic soil that host a rich habitat of alpine plants and hardy plants.

As the area is so sensitive to damage, hikers are not allowed beyond the specially prepared trails, or anywhere beyond the tree line/basin. In fact, even the climb up Humphrey's Peak requires a walk along the Humphrey's Trail. In fact, it has been said by ecologists and geologists that the area's fragile nature is only second to the San Francisco Peaks. Even the hiker group numbers are strictly monitored – 12 at the maximum.

Though camping is forbidden during the summer, winter snows give the land more protection and special campgrounds are set up to encourage backcountry travelers and climbers to have a base camp before they climb the mountain. However, it is mandatory to register at the Peaks Ranger Station and get a permit. Otherwise, visitors can use the area for cross-country skiing.