Flagstaff has an array of amazing hikes, from short and easy to steep and challenging. Humphrey’s Peak is one of the highest points in Arizona and tends to be one of the more challenging ones.
Despite it being a tough climb, Humphrey’s is arguably one of the most rewarding hikes that Flagstaff has to offer. The view you are greeted with when you reach the summit is a vast panorama of beautiful landmarks; these include part of the grand canyon, all of Flagstaff, some of Sedona, Williams, and all of the other surrounding mountains in the San Francisco mountain range. If you’re willing to experience a whole other personality to the mountain and see an even more incredible view, then I recommend starting the hike around 12 to 1 am. If you decide to do this make sure to bring a headlamp and layer up, it’s cold!! I know, I know, that’s super early, but trust me, it’ll all be worth it shortly!
Once you reach the summit just sit down, relax, and look towards the sky where you’ll see just about every star, the milky way, and countless shooting stars. But don’t head down just yet, the sun is about to rise! The best part of this early morning start is, by far, witnessing the red bliss that illuminates the Flagstaff sky at 12,000 ft around 6:30 am.