Kachina Peaks Wilderness near Flagstaff [Link]
The mountains of Flagstaff are known to create their own weather. In summer, that means it rains almost every day around the peaks, spiking the air over the Kachina Trail with an earthy-sweet dampness. Benefiting from its auspicious location on the windward side of the mountain, this trail sprouts green in rainforest proportions. Aspen clusters mimic whiteout conditions, and hip-deep swaths of frothy ferns tumble over the slopes in vivid emerald waves. Add to this already amazing hike a cozy lava cave, terrific views and fields of lupines growing in manic abundance and it’s easy to understand why this hike ranks as one of Arizona’s best.
HIGHLIGHTS: sun-drenched alpine meadows, musty pine forests, interesting geology
LENGTH: 10 miles round trip
ELEVATION: 8,600-9,500 feet
RATING: moderate
DOG RATING: ***
DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 155 miles one way (2.5 hours)
GETTING THERE: From Flagstaff, go north on US 180 for 7.3 miles to Snow Bowl Road (Forest Road 516). Follow FR 516 to the signed turnoff for the large trailhead on the right.
INFO: Peaks Ranger District, 928-526-0866,
www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino/recreation/peaks/kachina-tr.shtml
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