Do you enjoy getting active and pushing yourself to see gorgeous views of snow-capped mountains, the grand canyon, volcanoes and more? If you answered yes, then O’Leary Peak near the Sunset Crater National Park is most likely the perfect hike for you!
O’Leary Peak is a fantastic hike that is very doable for all ages and skill levels, in terms of difficulty; however, it is on the longer side. In total (round trip), the hike to the summit and back will bring you to about 10 miles.
The summit elevation of O’Leary Peak is at 8,937’ and is in the perfect location to see just about everything that Flagstaff has to offer. On the way up to the peak, you can see East Flagstaff, the Inner Basin of the Kachina Peaks, as well most as the Grand Canyon. If you plan on doing this hike within the next couple of months, I highly recommend wearing a lot of layers to stay warm as there is nothing to block the freezing wind once you reach the top.
P.S. You have to touch the summit plaque marker located underneath the fire watch tower (at the summit).
Directions (from NAU):
- Take S Knoles Dr and W University Dr for half a mile to S Milton Rd
- Follow I-40 E and US-89 N for 21 miles
- Take a right on Forest Service Rd 9124C to Forest Service Rd 545A and stay on it for 4 miles
- Park at the gate and follow the service road from there
- The service road is the considered the hike and will take you to the top