Mt. Humphreys

[ScottC]

I'm coming in to Phoenix (from Ohio) visit family in a couple of weeks. We plan to spend several days in Flagstaff and climb Humphreys on 9/24.

Any tips about altitude, weather this time of year, etc. would be appreciated. I'd also enjoy any stories about your hikes on this mountain.

Thanks

[sbkelley]

ScottC - welcome (in advance!)

Humphreys Peak should be in full fall color display around that time, so you may be timing this well. September is usually beautiful on the Peaks. Typically, the weather is stable in AZ in mid- to late-September, with dry and sunny days, but of course, check the forecast before you go.

Wind can often be ripping across the San Francisco Peaks through much of the year, so be aware of that when you break timberline.

Other than that, staying in Flag for a day or two should get your lungs used to 7000'. The trails are well-marked and hard to lose.

I'd usually suggest going from the Inner Basin, but that access road is still closed, to my knowledge, as a result of last year's Schultz Fire. You'll likely be heading up the Humphreys Peak Trail, which keeps you in the forest for the majority of the hike.

Have fun!

-Scott
_________________
Mountains complement desert as desert complements city, as wilderness complements and completes civilization. - Ed Abbey

[ScottC]

Thanks Scott. We're looking forward to it. My 13 year old daughter is going to make the hike with us. Looking forward to what should be a memorable day.