Bring your camera on this spectacular little ramble. Situated on sloping meadows and open glades high on the west-ern slope of the San Francisco Peaks, the Aspen Loop Trail affords unhindered views of the volcanic field to the west and the Grand Canyon to the north. The Peaks themselves loom high above with fine views of the nearby Arizona Snowbowl.
Beginning at the Humphreys Trailhead and branching west, the way leads through micro habitats where sun-loving wildflowers and grasses alternate with shade plants and ferns along the trail’s winding, 300-foot elevation change. Birds of the open glades abound: flickers, jays, juncos, and warblers. Aspen, spruce, and pine stand along the trail, including several large bristlecones. Higher up the Peaks, these trees can live well over a thousand years!
Completed in 2007 by the Forest Service in cooperation with the City of Flagstaff, Coconino County, Flagstaff Biking, Arizona Trail Association, Coconino Trail Riders, CREC, and Gore Corporation, the trail offers opportunities to learn about northern Arizona’s volcanoes, its habitat extremes, and all the ways we protect and enjoy our beloved Peaks.
General Information
Directions:
General Location: north of Flagstaff on US 180 seven miles and seven miles up Snowbowl Road
Access: From Flagstaff drive north on US 180 for 7 miles to FR 516, the Snowbowl Road. Drive 7.4 miles on this paved road to the lower parking lot (no. 9) of the Snowbowl facility. The trailhead is located at the north end of the parking lot.
General Notes:
Usage: Medium
Best Season: May to November
Closest Town: Flagstaff
Operated by: Flagstaff Ranger District - 923-526-0866
Rating: easy
Area/Length: 2.5 miles
Hiking time: up to an hour
Horseback: 2.25 hours
Latitude: 35.33125
Longitude: -111.712429
Elevation: 8600' - 9266'
Note: no motorized vehicle use
Leave No Trace: Preserve wild lands for others by practicing LNT principles:
Pack it in; pack it out
Dispose of waste properly.
Minimize campfire impact
Respect wildlife and their water resources.
Leave only footprints; take only pictures.
Above all, plan ahead.
Trail Etiquette:
You’re sharing the trail with others; be safe and courteous.
Observe regulations; stay on designated trails and avoid muddy areas and vegetation.
All users yield to equestrians; mountain bikers yield to all others.
Trail Etiquette:
