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Jacks Canyon Trail No. 55

Jacks Canyon Trail leads up the bottom of a rocky desert gorge where the vegetation is mostly high chaparral. The trail starts by skirting the boundary of an outlying subdivision, and passes through the effects of the 800 acre La Barranca Fire. It then follows an old jeep trail to Jacks Canyon Tank where it drops into the drainage bottom and proceeds along its moderate climb by crisscrossing the dry streambed. At the upper end of the canyon, the trail leaves the streambed to switchback to a high saddle connecting the Mogollon Rim and Munds Mountain. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, March 14, 2012. Credit: USFS Coconino National Forest. Learn more about hiking Jacks Canyon Trail in the Red Rock Ranger District of the Coconino National Forest website. Jacks Canyon Trail leads up the bottom of a rocky desert gorge where the vegetation is mostly high chaparral. The trail starts by skirting the boundary of an outlying subdivision, and passes through the effects of the 800 acre La Barranca Fire. It then follows an old jeep trail to Jacks Canyon Tank where it drops into the drainage bottom and proceeds along its moderate climb by crisscrossing the dry streambed. At the upper end of the canyon, the trail leaves the streambed to switchback to a high saddle connecting the Mogollon Rim and Munds Mountain. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, March 14, 2012. Credit: USFS Coconino National Forest. Learn more about hiking Jacks Canyon Trail in the Red Rock Ranger District of the Coconino National Forest website.

Fay Canyon Trail

Fay Canyon is a favorite hike for many who prefer a shorter hike with minimal elevation gain or who enjoy the grandeur of red sandstone walls towering overhead. Some people visit Fay Canyon to see the natural arch located just under a half mile up the trail. Those who don't know about it usually walk right past. Though the Fay Canyon Arch is by no means small, it looks so much like an ordinary rock overhang, it's easy to glance right at it and not realize what you've seen. If you keep watching the rock wall to the north (right) side of the trail sooner or later you'll spot it. This small, hidden canyon supports a diverse community of desert plants and provides good views of the surrounding cliffs. It dead ends at a red Supai sandstone cliff. Throughout Fay Canyon you can marvel at the breathtaking scenery that surrounds you. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, January 5, 2011. Credit: Coconino National Forest, U.S. Forest Service. Learn more about hiking Fay Canyon Trail No. 53 in the Red Rock Ranger District of the Coconino National Forest.

Mogollon Rim

At the Rim above Bear Sign Canyon. At the Rim above Bear Sign Canyon

Mogollon Rim

At the Rim above Bear Sign Canyon. At the Rim above Bear Sign Canyon

Arizona Trail Passage 34

View of Humphreys Peak, the highest of the San Francisco Peaks. The Peaks is an extinct stratovolcano in northern Arizona. On the southwestern side of the San Francisco Peaks, Arizona Trail Passage 34 drops gently from the junction of Aspen Loop, heading north across the top of Hart Prarie. The trail skirts the edge of the Kachina Peaks Wilderness, instersecting Bismarck Lake Trail approximately 2 miles from Aspen Loop. This section of trail offers fantastic views of the Humphreys and Agassiz Peaks of the San Francisco Peaks, as well as stunning vistas of Hart Prarie, Kendrick Mountain, and surrounding area. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, September 2015. Source: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. See Bismarck Lake and Aspen Loop trail descriptions for information about these Arizona Trail Passage 34 access trails on the Coconino National Forest website.

Fossil Creek

Fossil Creek seems to appear out of nowhere, gushing 20,000 gallons a minute out of a series of springs at the bottom of a 1,600 foot deep canyon. Over the years these calcium laden waters have laid down huge deposits of a type of limestone called travertine. That rock-like substance encases whatever happens to fall into the streambed, forming the fossils for which the area is named. Fossil Creek is one of two "Wild and Scenic" rivers in Arizona. This special designation was achieved when the Irving power plant was decommissioned, and removal of flume and dam on the creek allowed this magnificent creek to once again flow freely through Arizona's arid landscape. Most people come to Fossil Creek to sunbathe, wade, hike and birdwatch. It's also a great place to take photographs. The lushness of the riparian area strikes a sharp contrast to the brittle desert that surrounds it. Increasing popularity has led to the Coconino and Tonto National Forests to implement a parking permit reservation system in 2016. Reserved parking permits give visitors the peace of mind knowing they'll have a spot waiting for them in this remote location. Many visitors drive two or three hours to get to the creek. The final descent to the creek at the bottom of a canyon is on an extremely rough, rocky jeep road. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz. Credit: USFS Coconino National Forest. Learn more about visiting Fossil Creek, Fossil Springs Wilderness, and the Coconino National Forest.

Flume Trail

The Flume Trail starts at the old Irving Power Plant site. The five mile long trail follows the old flume access road along the canyon wall above Fossil Creek, providing beautiful, wide-open views of the wilderness. There is an easy low-water crossing across flat, solid rock at the trailhead on Forest Road 708. From the trailhead, the trail heads up towards the cliff wall where informational signs can be found. The steep hillside offers little shade to the gently rolling trail. The trail ends at the Old Fossil Springs Dam, where it meets up with Fossil Springs Trail.

Fossil Springs Wilderness: Old Fossil Creek Dam

The Fossil Creek Diversion Dam is found at the end of Flume Trail. It was built in 1915 to divert water from fossil creek into flumes that flow to the Irving Powerhouse. The hand-built, concrete dam was 25 feet high, 5 feet wide at the top, and over 24 feet wide at the base. The top 14 feet of the dam was removed in 2008 to allow the creek to flow freely, leaving a man-made waterfall a quarter mile downstream from the main springs. The Fossil Creek Diversion Dam is found at the end of Flume Trail. It was built in 1915 to divert water from fossil creek into flumes that flow to the Irving Powerhouse. The hand-built, concrete dam was 25 feet high, 5 feet wide at the top, and over 24 feet wide at the base. The top 14 feet of the dam was removed in 2008 to allow the creek to flow freely, leaving a man-made waterfall a quarter mile downstream from the main springs.

Fay Canyon Trail

Fay Canyon is a favorite hike for many who prefer a shorter hike with minimal elevation gain or who enjoy the grandeur of red sandstone walls towering overhead. Some people visit Fay Canyon to see the natural arch located just under a half mile up the trail. Those who don't know about it usually walk right past. Though the Fay Canyon Arch is by no means small, it looks so much like an ordinary rock overhang, it's easy to glance right at it and not realize what you've seen. If you keep watching the rock wall to the north (right) side of the trail sooner or later you'll spot it. This small, hidden canyon supports a diverse community of desert plants and provides good views of the surrounding cliffs. It dead ends at a red Supai sandstone cliff. Throughout Fay Canyon you can marvel at the breathtaking scenery that surrounds you. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, January 5, 2011. Credit: Coconino National Forest, U.S. Forest Service. Learn more about hiking Fay Canyon Trail No. 53 in the Red Rock Ranger District of the Coconino National Forest.

Arizona Snowbowl Grand Canyon Express Ski Lift Opening Celebration

On December 10, 2016, the Arizona Snowbowl Ski Resort opened the new Grand Canyon Express ski lift. As part of the celebration, the resort offered free rides on the new lift to members of the public, served hot chocolate and s'mores, and lit a bonfire to keep revelers warm. Offering skiing and snowboarding on Arizona's highest mountain, the SnowBowl ski resort is a full service downhill ski area. Runs range from beginner to advanced, so there's opportunities for everyone to have fun. The resort offers rentals, lessons, and childcare. The Snowbowl usually opens in early December and remains open until mid-April. In summer months, the Arizona Snowbowl operates one of the lifts as a scenic ride. The Arizona Snowbowl is operated by permit from the Coconino National Forest. Photo taken December 10, 2016 by Deborah Lee Soltesz. Credit: U.S. Forest Service Coconino National Forest. For more information, visit the Arizona Snowbowl and Coconino National Forest. On December 10, 2016, the Arizona Snowbowl Ski Resort opened the new Grand Canyon Express ski lift. As part of the celebration, the resort offered free rides on the new lift to members of the public, served hot chocolate and s'mores, and lit a bonfire to keep revelers warm. Offering skiing and snowboarding on Arizona's highest mountain, the SnowBowl ski resort is a full service downhill ski area. Runs range from beginner to advanced, so there's opportunities for everyone to have fun. The resort offers rentals, lessons, and childcare. The Snowbowl usually opens in early December and remains open until mid-April. In summer months, the Arizona Snowbowl operates one of the lifts as a scenic ride. The Arizona Snowbowl is operated by permit from the Coconino National Forest. Photo taken December 10, 2016 by Deborah Lee Soltesz. Credit: U.S. Forest Service Coconino National Forest. For more information, visit the Arizona Snowbowl and Coconino National Forest.

Fossil Creek 2006

View of the canyon above Fossil Creek from Fossil Creek Road (FR 708) in 2006. The flume (now removed) that once fed water from the diversion dam at the springs to the Irving power plant is visible running along the length of the canyon. This section of road is currently (2016) closed due to safety issues caused by rock falls along the cliff above the road. Fossil Creek is one of only two National Wild & Scenic rivers in Arizona and is fed by springs coming from the cliffs of the Mogollon Rim. Over 30 million gallons of water are discharged each day at a constant 70°F. The high mineral content leaves travertine dams and deposits, giving rise to fossil-like features. In 2005, Arizona Public Service (APS) decommissioned the Fossil Creek Dam and Flume, restoring full flows to Fossil Creek. The diversion dam at Fossil Springs was partially removed, allowing the creek to flow freely. The flume that once carried water to the power plant was disassembled. The Irving power plant and other buildings around the site were removed. Traces of history remain visible at the Irving site and along the Flume Trail in the form of old building foundations, rock work along the flume's maintenance road, and concrete pilings that once supported the flume. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, November 26, 2006. Credit: Coconino National Forest, U.S. Forest Service. Learn more about Fossil Creek Wild and Scenic River on the Coconino National Forest. This is a stitched panorama. Some portions of the edges (mainly the sky) were edited to fill in areas that were not photographed. View of the canyon above Fossil Creek from Fossil Creek Road (FR 708) in 2006. The flume (now removed) that once fed water from the diversion dam at the springs to the Irving power plant is visible running along the length of the canyon. This section of road is currently (2016) closed due to safety issues caused by rock falls along the cliff above the road. Fossil Creek is one of only two National Wild & Scenic rivers in Arizona and is fed by springs coming from the cliffs of the Mogollon Rim. Over 30 million gallons of water are discharged each day at a constant 70°F. The high mineral content leaves travertine dams and deposits, giving rise to fossil-like features. In 2005, Arizona Public Service (APS) decommissioned the Fossil Creek Dam and Flume, restoring full flows to Fossil Creek. The diversion dam at Fossil Springs was partially removed, allowing the creek to flow freely. The flume that once carried water to the power plant was disassembled. The Irving power plant and other buildings around the site were removed. Traces of history remain visible at the Irving site and along the Flume Trail in the form of old building foundations, rock work along the flume's maintenance road, and concrete pilings that once supported the flume. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, November 26, 2006. Credit: Coconino National Forest, U.S. Forest Service. Learn more about Fossil Creek Wild and Scenic River on the Coconino National Forest. This is a stitched panorama. Some portions of the edges (mainly the sky) were edited to fill in areas that were not photographed.

Mogollon Rim

At the Rim above Bear Sign Canyon. At the Rim above Bear Sign Canyon

Mogollon Rim

At the Rim above Bear Sign Canyon. At the Rim above Bear Sign Canyon

Fossil Springs Wilderness: Springs Area

Fossil Creek is one of two Arizona streams protected by the National Wild and Scenic Act. The Irving Power Plant, and associated dirversion dam and flumes, were decommissioned and much of the structures removed, allowing the creek to flow freely and the area begin to return to a more natural state. The creek is primarily fed by Fossil Springs, which produces approximately 28 million gallons of water per day. Fossil Creek is one of two Arizona streams protected by the National Wild and Scenic Act. The Irving Power Plant, and associated dirversion dam and flumes, were decommissioned and much of the structures removed, allowing the creek to flow freely and the area begin to return to a more natural state. The creek is primarily fed by Fossil Springs, which produces approximately 28 million gallons of water per day.

Kelsey Trail No. 3

Junction of Dorsey Trail No. 7 and Kelsey Trail No. 3. Dorsey Spring is to the southeast of the junction along Dorsey Trail. Photograph by Deborah Lee Soltesz. Credit USDA Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Kelsey Trail No. 3 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website.

[Processed] Milky Way over Ashurst Lake

Milky Way viewed from the northern end of Ashurst Lake, south of Flagstaff. Post-processed using my own standard processing techniques and preferences (noted for comparison with "Unprocessed" and "Lonely Speck" photos). Milky Way viewed from the northern end of Ashurst Lake, south of Flagstaff. Post-processed using my own standard processing techniques and preferences (noted for comparison with "Unprocessed" and "Lonely Speck" photos).

Waterfall Trail on Fossil Creek

This large, natural waterfall on Fossil Creek is the destination of an easy, one mile hike on Waterfall Trail. A large, deep pool at the base of the fall is a popular swimming hole. Fossil Creek produces 20,000 gallons of water a minute from a series of springs at the bottom of a 1,600 foot deep canyon. This permanent water source has created a stunningly beautiful, green riparian zone rich with flora and fauna at the bottom of this arid canyon in Arizona's high desert. Travertine deposits encase whatever happens to fall into the streambed, forming the fossils for which the area is named. These deposits create deep pools along the length of the creek, providing opportunities to find more secluded swimming holes than the popular pool at the waterfall. Fossil Creek is one of two "Wild and Scenic" rivers in Arizona. This designation was achieved when the Irving power plant was decommissioned, and removal of flume and dam on the creek allowed the creek to flow free. Increasing popularity has led to the Coconino and Tonto National Forests to implement a parking permit reservation system in 2016. Reserved parking permits allow visitors to have a parking spot available in their chosen parking lot. Many visitors drive two or three hours to get to the creek. The final descent to the creek at the bottom of a canyon is on an extremely rough, rocky jeep road. In prior years, the area would often be closed to entry when it reached capacity, and potential visitors would be turned away after the long, difficult drive. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, May 12, 2016. For trail and recreation information, see Fossil Creek, Fossil Springs Wilderness, and the Coconino National Forest. This large, natural waterfall on Fossil Creek is the destination of an easy, one mile hike on Waterfall Trail. A large, deep pool at the base of the fall is a popular swimming hole. Fossil Creek produces 20,000 gallons of water a minute from a series of springs at the bottom of a 1,600 foot deep canyon. This permanent water source has created a stunningly beautiful, green riparian zone rich with flora and fauna at the bottom of this arid canyon in Arizona's high desert. Travertine deposits encase whatever happens to fall into the streambed, forming the fossils for which the area is named. These deposits create deep pools along the length of the creek, providing opportunities to find more secluded swimming holes than the popular pool at the waterfall. Fossil Creek is one of two "Wild and Scenic" rivers in Arizona. This designation was achieved when the Irving power plant was decommissioned, and removal of flume and dam on the creek allowed the creek to flow free. Increasing popularity has led to the Coconino and Tonto National Forests to implement a parking permit reservation system in 2016. Reserved parking permits allow visitors to have a parking spot available in their chosen parking lot. Many visitors drive two or three hours to get to the creek. The final descent to the creek at the bottom of a canyon is on an extremely rough, rocky jeep road. In prior years, the area would often be closed to entry when it reached capacity, and potential visitors would be turned away after the long, difficult drive. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, May 12, 2016. For trail and recreation information, see Fossil Creek, Fossil Springs Wilderness, and the Coconino National Forest.

Arizona Snowbowl Grand Canyon Express Ski Lift Opening Celebration

On December 10, 2016, the Arizona Snowbowl Ski Resort opened the new Grand Canyon Express ski lift. As part of the celebration, the resort offered free rides on the new lift to members of the public, served hot chocolate and s'mores, and lit a bonfire to keep revelers warm. Offering skiing and snowboarding on Arizona's highest mountain, the SnowBowl ski resort is a full service downhill ski area. Runs range from beginner to advanced, so there's opportunities for everyone to have fun. The resort offers rentals, lessons, and childcare. The Snowbowl usually opens in early December and remains open until mid-April. In summer months, the Arizona Snowbowl operates one of the lifts as a scenic ride. The Arizona Snowbowl is operated by permit from the Coconino National Forest. Photo taken December 10, 2016 by Deborah Lee Soltesz. Credit: U. S. Forest Service Coconino National Forest. For more information, visit the Arizona Snowbowl and Coconino National Forest. On December 10, 2016, the Arizona Snowbowl Ski Resort opened the new Grand Canyon Express ski lift. As part of the celebration, the resort offered free rides on the new lift to members of the public, served hot chocolate and s'mores, and lit a bonfire to keep revelers warm. Offering skiing and snowboarding on Arizona's highest mountain, the SnowBowl ski resort is a full service downhill ski area. Runs range from beginner to advanced, so there's opportunities for everyone to have fun. The resort offers rentals, lessons, and childcare. The Snowbowl usually opens in early December and remains open until mid-April. In summer months, the Arizona Snowbowl operates one of the lifts as a scenic ride. The Arizona Snowbowl is operated by permit from the Coconino National Forest. Photo taken December 10, 2016 by Deborah Lee Soltesz. Credit: U. S. Forest Service Coconino National Forest. For more information, visit the Arizona Snowbowl and Coconino National Forest.

Barbershop Trail No. 91

Along the creek at the bottom of Barbershop Canyon. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, August 2010. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Barbershop No. 91 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website. Along the creek at the bottom of Barbershop Canyon. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, August 2010. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Barbershop No. 91 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website.

Barbershop Trail No. 91

Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, August 2010. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Barbershop No. 91 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, August 2010. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Barbershop No. 91 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website.

Secret Canyon Trail

Backpacking trip into Secret Canyon. Backpacking trip into Secret Canyon.

Knoll Lake

This secluded forest lake is surrounded by ponderosa pines, with a picturesque island in the center. Knoll Lake provides a scenic setting for picnicking, fishing, canoeing, and other activities. The nearby campground, trails, and Mogollon Rim make Knoll Lake a peaceful getaway with plenty to see and do. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, August 2010. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information, visit Knoll Lake on the Coconino National Forest website.

Milky Way over Ashurst Lake

Milky Way viewed from the northern end of Ashurst Lake, south of Flagstaff. Milky Way viewed from the northern end of Ashurst Lake, south of Flagstaff.

Fossil Creek 2006

Fossil Creek just below the Irving power plant site, 2006. The power plant had been decommissioned and the structures were in the process of being removed before the creek was granted the "Wild and Scenic" designation in 2009. Fossil Creek is one of only two National Wild & Scenic rivers in Arizona and is fed by springs coming from the cliffs of the Mogollon Rim. Over 30 million gallons of water are discharged each day at a constant 70°F. The high mineral content leaves travertine dams and deposits, giving rise to fossil-like features. In 2005, Arizona Public Service (APS) decommissioned the Fossil Creek Dam and Flume, restoring full flows to Fossil Creek. The diversion dam at Fossil Springs was partially removed, allowing the creek to flow freely. The flume that once carried water to the power plant was disassembled. The Irving power plant and other buildings around the site were removed. Traces of history remain visible at the Irving site and along the Flume Trail in the form of old building foundations, rock work along the flume's maintenance road, and concrete pilings that once supported the flume. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, November 26, 2006. Credit: Coconino National Forest, U.S. Forest Service. Learn more about Fossil Creek Wild and Scenic River on the Coconino National Forest. This is a stitched panorama. Some portions of the edges (mainly the sky) were edited to fill in areas that were not photographed. Fossil Creek just below the Irving power plant site, 2006. The power plant had been decommissioned and the structures were in the process of being removed before the creek was granted the "Wild and Scenic" designation in 2009. Fossil Creek is one of only two National Wild & Scenic rivers in Arizona and is fed by springs coming from the cliffs of the Mogollon Rim. Over 30 million gallons of water are discharged each day at a constant 70°F. The high mineral content leaves travertine dams and deposits, giving rise to fossil-like features. In 2005, Arizona Public Service (APS) decommissioned the Fossil Creek Dam and Flume, restoring full flows to Fossil Creek. The diversion dam at Fossil Springs was partially removed, allowing the creek to flow freely. The flume that once carried water to the power plant was disassembled. The Irving power plant and other buildings around the site were removed. Traces of history remain visible at the Irving site and along the Flume Trail in the form of old building foundations, rock work along the flume's maintenance road, and concrete pilings that once supported the flume. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, November 26, 2006. Credit: Coconino National Forest, U.S. Forest Service. Learn more about Fossil Creek Wild and Scenic River on the Coconino National Forest. This is a stitched panorama. Some portions of the edges (mainly the sky) were edited to fill in areas that were not photographed.

Little L.O. Trail No. 6

Geronimo Spring, Little Lookout (L.O.) Trail. Photograph by Deborah Lee Soltesz. Credit USDA Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Little L.O. Trail No. 6 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website.

Inner Basin Trail No. 29

The Inner Basin Trail ascends from Lockett Meadow into the caldera of the San Francisco Peaks, an extinct volcano and home of the tallest peaks in Arizona. The first 1.7 miles of the trail winds through the extensive aspen forest flanking the upper reaches of the Peaks, joining the Waterline Trail briefly before following a jeep road into the caldera. The trail starts at an elevation of 8665 feet, gaining approximately 1200 feet over 2 miles on its way into the Inner Basin. The trail continues another 2 miles, gaining an additional 600 feet or so to join up with the Weatherford Trail. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, October 1, 2015. Source: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. See Lockett Meadow Campground and Inner Basin No. 29 for information about this area of the Peaks on the Coconino National Forest website. The Inner Basin Trail ascends from Lockett Meadow into the caldera of the San Francisco Peaks, an extinct volcano and home of the tallest peaks in Arizona. The first 1.7 miles of the trail winds through the extensive aspen forest flanking the upper reaches of the Peaks, joining the Waterline Trail briefly before following a jeep road into the caldera. The trail starts at an elevation of 8665 feet, gaining approximately 1200 feet over 2 miles on its way into the Inner Basin. The trail continues another 2 miles, gaining an additional 600 feet or so to join up with the Weatherford Trail. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, October 1, 2015. Source: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. See Lockett Meadow Campground and Inner Basin No. 29 for information about this area of the Peaks on the Coconino National Forest website.

Waterfall Trail on Fossil Creek

Waterfall Trail is an easy, one mile trail along Fossil Creek Wild and Scenic River outside of Camp Verde, Arizona. A parking permit is required in the busy warm weather months. Trail information www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recarea/?recid=55272. Waterfall Trail is an easy, one mile trail along Fossil Creek Wild and Scenic River outside of Camp Verde, Arizona. A parking permit is required in the busy warm weather months. Trail information www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recarea/?recid=55272

Barbershop Trail No. 91

Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, August 2010. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Barbershop No. 91 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, August 2010. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Barbershop No. 91 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website.

Knoll Lake

This secluded forest lake is surrounded by ponderosa pines, with a picturesque island in the center. Knoll Lake provides a scenic setting for picnicking, fishing, canoeing, and other activities. The nearby campground, trails, and Mogollon Rim make Knoll Lake a peaceful getaway with plenty to see and do. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, August 2010. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information, visit Knoll Lake on the Coconino National Forest website.

Cathedral Rock Trail No. 170

Cathedral Rock Trail ascends one of the most recognizable rock formations in the heart of Red Rock Country. Many visitors hike the first quarter mile to enjoy the fantastic views from the first ledge, where the trail meets Templeton Trail. From here, the trail becomes as much a rock climb as a hike, requiring non-technical scrambling up rock faces and ledges to make it to the final ascent to the top. The saddle between two spires offers spectacular views. The unmaintained trail explores the lava and spires at the top. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, February 5, 2014. Credit: USFS Coconino National Forest. Learn more about hiking Cathedral Rock Trail No. 170 in the Red Rock Ranger District of the Coconino National Forest website.

Secret Canyon Trail

Backpacking trip into Secret Canyon. Backpacking trip into Secret Canyon.

Knoll Lake Boat Ramp

This secluded forest lake is surrounded by ponderosa pines, with a picturesque island in the center. Knoll Lake provides a scenic setting for picnicking, fishing, canoeing, and other activities. The nearby campground, trails, and Mogollon Rim make Knoll Lake a peaceful getaway with plenty to see and do. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, August 2010. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information, visit Knoll Lake on the Coconino National Forest website. This secluded forest lake is surrounded by ponderosa pines, with a picturesque island in the center. Knoll Lake provides a scenic setting for picnicking, fishing, canoeing, and other activities. The nearby campground, trails, and Mogollon Rim make Knoll Lake a peaceful getaway with plenty to see and do. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, August 2010. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information, visit Knoll Lake on the Coconino National Forest website.

Rogers Lake

Rogers Lake

Secret Canyon Trail

Backpacking trip into Secret Canyon. Backpacking trip into Secret Canyon.

Fay Canyon Trail

Fay Canyon is a favorite hike for many who prefer a shorter hike with minimal elevation gain or who enjoy the grandeur of red sandstone walls towering overhead. Some people visit Fay Canyon to see the natural arch located just under a half mile up the trail. Those who don't know about it usually walk right past. Though the Fay Canyon Arch is by no means small, it looks so much like an ordinary rock overhang, it's easy to glance right at it and not realize what you've seen. If you keep watching the rock wall to the north (right) side of the trail sooner or later you'll spot it. This small, hidden canyon supports a diverse community of desert plants and provides good views of the surrounding cliffs. It dead ends at a red Supai sandstone cliff. Throughout Fay Canyon you can marvel at the breathtaking scenery that surrounds you. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, January 5, 2011. Credit: Coconino National Forest, U.S. Forest Service. Learn more about hiking Fay Canyon Trail No. 53 in the Red Rock Ranger District of the Coconino National Forest.

Barbershop Trail No. 91

Along the creek at the bottom of Barbershop Canyon. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, August 2010. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Barbershop No. 91 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website. Along the creek at the bottom of Barbershop Canyon. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, August 2010. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Barbershop No. 91 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website.

Arizona Snowbowl Grand Canyon Express Ski Lift Opening Celebration

On December 10, 2016, the Arizona Snowbowl Ski Resort opened the new Grand Canyon Express ski lift. As part of the celebration, the resort offered free rides on the new lift to members of the public, served hot chocolate and s'mores, and lit a bonfire to keep revelers warm. Offering skiing and snowboarding on Arizona's highest mountain, the SnowBowl ski resort is a full service downhill ski area. Runs range from beginner to advanced, so there's opportunities for everyone to have fun. The resort offers rentals, lessons, and childcare. The Snowbowl usually opens in early December and remains open until mid-April. In summer months, the Arizona Snowbowl operates one of the lifts as a scenic ride. The Arizona Snowbowl is operated by permit from the Coconino National Forest. Photo taken December 10, 2016 by Deborah Lee Soltesz. Credit: U.S. Forest Service Coconino National Forest. For more information, visit the Arizona Snowbowl and Coconino National Forest. On December 10, 2016, the Arizona Snowbowl Ski Resort opened the new Grand Canyon Express ski lift. As part of the celebration, the resort offered free rides on the new lift to members of the public, served hot chocolate and s'mores, and lit a bonfire to keep revelers warm. Offering skiing and snowboarding on Arizona's highest mountain, the SnowBowl ski resort is a full service downhill ski area. Runs range from beginner to advanced, so there's opportunities for everyone to have fun. The resort offers rentals, lessons, and childcare. The Snowbowl usually opens in early December and remains open until mid-April. In summer months, the Arizona Snowbowl operates one of the lifts as a scenic ride. The Arizona Snowbowl is operated by permit from the Coconino National Forest. Photo taken December 10, 2016 by Deborah Lee Soltesz. Credit: U.S. Forest Service Coconino National Forest. For more information, visit the Arizona Snowbowl and Coconino National Forest.

Cathedral Rock Trail No. 170

View from the saddle on Cathedral Rock. Cathedral Rock Trail ascends one of the most recognizable rock formations in the heart of Red Rock Country. Many visitors hike the first quarter mile to enjoy the fantastic views from the first ledge, where the trail meets Templeton Trail. From here, the trail becomes as much a rock climb as a hike, requiring non-technical scrambling up rock faces and ledges to make it to the final ascent to the top. The saddle between two spires offers spectacular views. The unmaintained trail explores the lava and spires at the top. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, February 5, 2014. Credit: USFS Coconino National Forest. Learn more about hiking Cathedral Rock Trail No. 170 in the Red Rock Ranger District of the Coconino National Forest website.

Waterfall Trail on Fossil Creek

This large, natural waterfall on Fossil Creek is the destination of an easy, one mile hike on Waterfall Trail. A large, deep pool at the base of the fall is a popular swimming hole. Fossil Creek produces 20,000 gallons of water a minute from a series of springs at the bottom of a 1,600 foot deep canyon. This permanent water source has created a stunningly beautiful, green riparian zone rich with flora and fauna at the bottom of this arid canyon in Arizona's high desert. Travertine deposits encase whatever happens to fall into the streambed, forming the fossils for which the area is named. These deposits create deep pools along the length of the creek, providing opportunities to find more secluded swimming holes than the popular pool at the waterfall. Fossil Creek is one of two "Wild and Scenic" rivers in Arizona. This designation was achieved when the Irving power plant was decommissioned, and removal of flume and dam on the creek allowed the creek to flow free. Increasing popularity has led to the Coconino and Tonto National Forests to implement a parking permit reservation system in 2016. Reserved parking permits allow visitors to have a parking spot available in their chosen parking lot. Many visitors drive two or three hours to get to the creek. The final descent to the creek at the bottom of a canyon is on an extremely rough, rocky jeep road. In prior years, the area would often be closed to entry when it reached capacity, and potential visitors would be turned away after the long, difficult drive. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, May 12, 2016. For trail and recreation information, see Fossil Creek, Fossil Springs Wilderness, and the Coconino National Forest. This large, natural waterfall on Fossil Creek is the destination of an easy, one mile hike on Waterfall Trail. A large, deep pool at the base of the fall is a popular swimming hole. Fossil Creek produces 20,000 gallons of water a minute from a series of springs at the bottom of a 1,600 foot deep canyon. This permanent water source has created a stunningly beautiful, green riparian zone rich with flora and fauna at the bottom of this arid canyon in Arizona's high desert. Travertine deposits encase whatever happens to fall into the streambed, forming the fossils for which the area is named. These deposits create deep pools along the length of the creek, providing opportunities to find more secluded swimming holes than the popular pool at the waterfall. Fossil Creek is one of two "Wild and Scenic" rivers in Arizona. This designation was achieved when the Irving power plant was decommissioned, and removal of flume and dam on the creek allowed the creek to flow free. Increasing popularity has led to the Coconino and Tonto National Forests to implement a parking permit reservation system in 2016. Reserved parking permits allow visitors to have a parking spot available in their chosen parking lot. Many visitors drive two or three hours to get to the creek. The final descent to the creek at the bottom of a canyon is on an extremely rough, rocky jeep road. In prior years, the area would often be closed to entry when it reached capacity, and potential visitors would be turned away after the long, difficult drive. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, May 12, 2016. For trail and recreation information, see Fossil Creek, Fossil Springs Wilderness, and the Coconino National Forest.

Boyton Canyon Trail No. 47

Boynton Canyon is one of the most scenic of the box canyons that make Arizona's Red Rock Country so famous. The trail starts out by skirting a luxury resort, then returns to the canyon floor where the walking is pleasant and easy. The canyon gradually becomes narrower, entering Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness, and ending at a box at the base of Secret Mountain. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, February 2011. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Boynton Canyon No. 47 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website. Boynton Canyon is one of the most scenic of the box canyons that make Arizona's Red Rock Country so famous. The trail starts out by skirting a luxury resort, then returns to the canyon floor where the walking is pleasant and easy. The canyon gradually becomes narrower, entering Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness, and ending at a box at the base of Secret Mountain. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, February 2011. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Boynton Canyon No. 47 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website.

Mount Elden

The top of Mt. Elden following winter storms. Mt. Elden houses communications towers and a fire lookout tower. Winter storms passed through northern Arizona the first week of January 2016, dropping nearly three feet of snow in some areas around Flagstaff, Arizona. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, January 8, 2016. Source: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. Learn more about the Coconino National Forest. The top of Mt. Elden following winter storms. Mt. Elden houses communications towers and a fire lookout tower. Winter storms passed through northern Arizona the first week of January 2016, dropping nearly three feet of snow in some areas around Flagstaff, Arizona. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, January 8, 2016. Source: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. Learn more about the Coconino National Forest.

Little L.O. Trail No. 6

Little Lookout (L.O.) Trail. Photograph by Deborah Lee Soltesz. Credit USDA Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Little L.O. Trail No. 6 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website.

Mogollon Rim

At the Rim above Bear Sign Canyon. At the Rim above Bear Sign Canyon

Mogollon Rim

At the Rim above Bear Sign Canyon. At the Rim above Bear Sign Canyon

Rogers Lake

Rogers Lake

Waterfall Trail on Fossil Creek

Waterfall Trail is an easy, one mile trail along Fossil Creek Wild and Scenic River outside of Camp Verde, Arizona. A parking permit is required in the busy warm weather months. Trail information www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recarea/?recid=55272. Waterfall Trail is an easy, one mile trail along Fossil Creek Wild and Scenic River outside of Camp Verde, Arizona. A parking permit is required in the busy warm weather months. Trail information www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recarea/?recid=55272

Flume Trail

The Flume Trail starts at the old Irving Power Plant site. The five mile long trail follows the old flume access road along the canyon wall above Fossil Creek, providing beautiful, wide-open views of the wilderness. There is an easy low-water crossing across flat, solid rock at the trailhead on Forest Road 708. From the trailhead, the trail heads up towards the cliff wall where informational signs can be found. The steep hillside offers little shade to the gently rolling trail. The trail ends at the Old Fossil Springs Dam, where it meets up with Fossil Springs Trail.

Boyton Canyon Trail No. 47

Boynton Canyon is one of the most scenic of the box canyons that make Arizona's Red Rock Country so famous. The trail starts out by skirting a luxury resort, then returns to the canyon floor where the walking is pleasant and easy. The canyon gradually becomes narrower, entering Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness, and ending at a box at the base of Secret Mountain. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, February 2011. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Boynton Canyon No. 47 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website. Boynton Canyon is one of the most scenic of the box canyons that make Arizona's Red Rock Country so famous. The trail starts out by skirting a luxury resort, then returns to the canyon floor where the walking is pleasant and easy. The canyon gradually becomes narrower, entering Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness, and ending at a box at the base of Secret Mountain. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, February 2011. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Boynton Canyon No. 47 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website.

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