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Inner Basin Trail No. 29

Fall color on Inner Basin Trail, October 5, 2016. Most trees are peaking or approaching peak color all along the Inner Basin Trail. Trees are approaching or at peak on the lower on Inner Basin Trail and in Lockett Meadow. A majority of the trees are at peak or past peak (and dropping leaves) on the upper part of the trail above Jack Smith Spring and in the Inner Basin. 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 5, 2016. 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. Fall color on Inner Basin Trail, October 5, 2016. Most trees are peaking or approaching peak color all along the Inner Basin Trail. Trees are approaching or at peak on the lower on Inner Basin Trail and in Lockett Meadow. A majority of the trees are at peak or past peak (and dropping leaves) on the upper part of the trail above Jack Smith Spring and in the Inner Basin. 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 5, 2016. 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.

Interstate 17 & 40 Interchange

Flagstaff, Arizona

West Fork of Oak Creek

West Fork of Oak Creek On the third day of our camping trip on the Mogollon Rim above Sedona, we headed to the western end of West Fork. The canyon starts on the Rim, intersecting Woody Mountain Road, and cuts east, where it joins Oak Creek Canyon, a total distance of seven or eight miles. At the Oak Creek end, there’s an official trailhead (West Fork #108) at Call o’ the Canyon, which runs about three miles up the canyon. We decided to try hiking the canyon from the western end, where there’s no official trail… as a matter of fact, there’s a lovely Forest Service sign explaining that there’s no official trail there, you’re pretty much on your own, watch out for flash floods, and please don’t die. From the bridge, there’s a well worn path that runs for perhaps 0.5 to 0.75 mile along the banks of the creek. Eventually, the canyon becomes too narrow, and walking on the banks is not possible, and it becomes a boulder hop down the creek bed. Fallen trees and very large boulders make the route a bit challenging. At this point, while the canyon is very pretty, it’s not family friendly or very dog friendly (we had to give ours quite a bit of assistance). Given the amount of scrambling, I don’t think this would be a very fun backpacking trail, but with an early start, I believe this could be easily done as a shuttle hike. Trip report All photos from this hike

Secret Cabin

Secret Cabin on Secret Mountain Trail. 2009-05-06: On the fourth day of our camping trip on the Mogollon Rim above Sedona, we headed to Secret Mountain Trail #109. The Mangums (authors of Flagstaff Hikes) list this as one of their favorite trails, mentioning they usually stop just past Secret Cabin on the edge of the mountain where there’s a nice view. The weather was unseasonably hot, and we chose this trail not only because it’s interesting, but because it stays at fairly high elevation (instead of diving down into a canyon like so many of the trails in this area). The trail starts off running along a bit of a ridge up to a knob where there are some fantastic views. Diving down to a narrow saddle, the trail meets the top of Loy Canyon Trail, then climbs up to a fairly flat run. Around 1.0 mile are the remains of an old dry tank and corral. It’s almost easy to miss the corral because there’s just a few posts left, as well as a rusty old dredge. Off to the left just past the corral is Johnson Tank. The tank wall reveals signs of masonry work where the dirt has eroded away. Past Johnson Tank, the trail runs above and to the left of a ravine, where two more tanks hold water. The first, Masonry Tank, is built using local stones to dam a narrow, rocky section of the creek bed. The dam creates a small, shallow pond. Below Masonry Tank is Cement Tank, created from three slabs of preformed concrete. This dam creates a rather large, long, and narrow pond which runs back almost to Masonry Tank. There is a rough footpath running from Cement Tank to above Masonry Tank, a lovely diversion from the main trail. According to the Mangums, this area of forest is virgin. Near Cement Tank, the trail descends to a bench along the creek bed where another, more complete corral and Secret Cabin are situated (1.8 miles from the trailhead). Secret Cabin is in fair shape, its walls standing but its roof has collapsed. According to the Mangums, the cabin was built as a failed homestead, and was later inhabited by a family of polygamous Latter Day Saints escaping persecution, then horse thieves who’d bring stolen horses up Loy Canyon from Sedona en route to Flagstaff and northern destinations. Heading uphill past the cabin, the trail leads up to a ridge with a nice view and more corrals. The main trail leads off to the left for another 2.8 miles. Since it was pretty hot weather, we decided to follow the Mangums' recommendation: we had lunch in the shade of a tree, then turned around and headed back to the trailhead, diverting down into the ravine to explore the tanks on the way back. Trip report and full gallery

Mogollon Rim

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

Flagstaff, Arizona

Humphreys Trail No. 51

San Francisco Peaks groundsel (packera franciscana) is a rare member of the aster family found only on the alpine tundra talus slopes of the San Fracisco Peaks. Off-trail hiking is prohibited above the treeline to protect the fragile habitat of this rare flower. View along Humphreys Trail No. 50. The trail starts at the Arizona Snowbowl and winds steeply up to Humphreys Peak, the highest point in Arizona at 12,633 feet. Humphreys Peak is one of several named peaks in the San Francisco Peaks (aka San Francisco Mountain or simply "the Peaks"). The mountain is an extinct stratovolcano. The 5+ mile hike ascends over an elevation gain of over 3,000 feet, and generally take 6 to 8 hours to complete. Brent Johnston of the Coconino National Forest took this photo on a weekend family hike, July 24, 2015. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Humphreys Trail No. 51 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website.

Inner Basin Trail

The trail above Jack Spring follows the access road used to maintain Flagstaff city water supply facilities. 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, August 2015. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Inner Basin No. 29 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website.

Mogollon Rim

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

Sunset at camp

Sunset at camp On the third day of our camping trip on the Mogollon Rim above Sedona, we headed to the western end of West Fork. The canyon starts on the Rim, intersecting Woody Mountain Road, and cuts east, where it joins Oak Creek Canyon, a total distance of seven or eight miles. At the Oak Creek end, there’s an official trailhead (West Fork #108) at Call o’ the Canyon, which runs about three miles up the canyon. We decided to try hiking the canyon from the western end, where there’s no official trail… as a matter of fact, there’s a lovely Forest Service sign explaining that there’s no official trail there, you’re pretty much on your own, watch out for flash floods, and please don’t die. From the bridge, there’s a well worn path that runs for perhaps 0.5 to 0.75 mile along the banks of the creek. Eventually, the canyon becomes too narrow, and walking on the banks is not possible, and it becomes a boulder hop down the creek bed. Fallen trees and very large boulders make the route a bit challenging. At this point, while the canyon is very pretty, it’s not family friendly or very dog friendly (we had to give ours quite a bit of assistance). Given the amount of scrambling, I don’t think this would be a very fun backpacking trail, but with an early start, I believe this could be easily done as a shuttle hike. Trip report All photos from this hike

Lost Lake

Road to Lost Lake Tank. 2009-05-07: On the fifth day of our camping trip on the Mogollon Rim we were still looking to beat the heat by staying above the rim. I’d noticed a route marked as a trail on my GPS (the base map on my Garmin Oregon 400T) leading to a spot marked Lost Lake. We headed for trail, turning off of the main road onto a jeep track. The route quickly got rocky, and we assumed it was petering out, so we parked and started hiking. Within a couple hundred feet, the route turned back into a smooth, dirt, two-track road… basically, quite driveable. We hiked it anyway. There was a tree blocking the road about halfway to Lost Lake, but aside from that the route is a well maintained route, with a couple side-roads heading off of it. The road gently ascends to the top of a hill, where Lost Lake is actually a pair of tanks. The upper tank is quite large, and both had water in them. There were a few wildflowers, and butterflies and western tanagers were flitting about. It’s a very pretty area, and quite likely an excellent place for bird watching. Lost Lake is definitely worth a visit, whether hiking or driving. The tanks are surrounded by forest, and we took advantage of the shade to have lunch, enjoy the beautiful day, and catch a quick nap. Hiking report View all photos from this hike

Lost Lake

Road to Lost Lake Tank. 2009-05-07: On the fifth day of our camping trip on the Mogollon Rim we were still looking to beat the heat by staying above the rim. I’d noticed a route marked as a trail on my GPS (the base map on my Garmin Oregon 400T) leading to a spot marked Lost Lake. We headed for trail, turning off of the main road onto a jeep track. The route quickly got rocky, and we assumed it was petering out, so we parked and started hiking. Within a couple hundred feet, the route turned back into a smooth, dirt, two-track road… basically, quite driveable. We hiked it anyway. There was a tree blocking the road about halfway to Lost Lake, but aside from that the route is a well maintained route, with a couple side-roads heading off of it. The road gently ascends to the top of a hill, where Lost Lake is actually a pair of tanks. The upper tank is quite large, and both had water in them. There were a few wildflowers, and butterflies and western tanagers were flitting about. It’s a very pretty area, and quite likely an excellent place for bird watching. Lost Lake is definitely worth a visit, whether hiking or driving. The tanks are surrounded by forest, and we took advantage of the shade to have lunch, enjoy the beautiful day, and catch a quick nap. Hiking report View all photos from this hike

Secret Cabin

Secret Cabin on Secret Mountain Trail. 2009-05-06: On the fourth day of our camping trip on the Mogollon Rim above Sedona, we headed to Secret Mountain Trail #109. The Mangums (authors of Flagstaff Hikes) list this as one of their favorite trails, mentioning they usually stop just past Secret Cabin on the edge of the mountain where there’s a nice view. The weather was unseasonably hot, and we chose this trail not only because it’s interesting, but because it stays at fairly high elevation (instead of diving down into a canyon like so many of the trails in this area). The trail starts off running along a bit of a ridge up to a knob where there are some fantastic views. Diving down to a narrow saddle, the trail meets the top of Loy Canyon Trail, then climbs up to a fairly flat run. Around 1.0 mile are the remains of an old dry tank and corral. It’s almost easy to miss the corral because there’s just a few posts left, as well as a rusty old dredge. Off to the left just past the corral is Johnson Tank. The tank wall reveals signs of masonry work where the dirt has eroded away. Past Johnson Tank, the trail runs above and to the left of a ravine, where two more tanks hold water. The first, Masonry Tank, is built using local stones to dam a narrow, rocky section of the creek bed. The dam creates a small, shallow pond. Below Masonry Tank is Cement Tank, created from three slabs of preformed concrete. This dam creates a rather large, long, and narrow pond which runs back almost to Masonry Tank. There is a rough footpath running from Cement Tank to above Masonry Tank, a lovely diversion from the main trail. According to the Mangums, this area of forest is virgin. Near Cement Tank, the trail descends to a bench along the creek bed where another, more complete corral and Secret Cabin are situated (1.8 miles from the trailhead). Secret Cabin is in fair shape, its walls standing but its roof has collapsed. According to the Mangums, the cabin was built as a failed homestead, and was later inhabited by a family of polygamous Latter Day Saints escaping persecution, then horse thieves who’d bring stolen horses up Loy Canyon from Sedona en route to Flagstaff and northern destinations. Heading uphill past the cabin, the trail leads up to a ridge with a nice view and more corrals. The main trail leads off to the left for another 2.8 miles. Since it was pretty hot weather, we decided to follow the Mangums' recommendation: we had lunch in the shade of a tree, then turned around and headed back to the trailhead, diverting down into the ravine to explore the tanks on the way back. Trip report and full gallery

Flagstaff, Arizona

Inner Basin Trail

The trail above Jack Spring follows the access road used to maintain Flagstaff city water supply facilities. 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, August 2015. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Inner Basin No. 29 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website.

Flagstaff, Arizona

Bones of the Forest

Tall Pine Trees in a Northern Arizona patch of forest. Image captured from an aerial drone at 400 feet in altitude. Tall Pine Trees in a Northern Arizona patch of forest. Image captured from an aerial drone at 400 feet in altitude

West Fork of Oak Creek

West Fork of Oak Creek On the third day of our camping trip on the Mogollon Rim above Sedona, we headed to the western end of West Fork. The canyon starts on the Rim, intersecting Woody Mountain Road, and cuts east, where it joins Oak Creek Canyon, a total distance of seven or eight miles. At the Oak Creek end, there’s an official trailhead (West Fork #108) at Call o’ the Canyon, which runs about three miles up the canyon. We decided to try hiking the canyon from the western end, where there’s no official trail… as a matter of fact, there’s a lovely Forest Service sign explaining that there’s no official trail there, you’re pretty much on your own, watch out for flash floods, and please don’t die. From the bridge, there’s a well worn path that runs for perhaps 0.5 to 0.75 mile along the banks of the creek. Eventually, the canyon becomes too narrow, and walking on the banks is not possible, and it becomes a boulder hop down the creek bed. Fallen trees and very large boulders make the route a bit challenging. At this point, while the canyon is very pretty, it’s not family friendly or very dog friendly (we had to give ours quite a bit of assistance). Given the amount of scrambling, I don’t think this would be a very fun backpacking trail, but with an early start, I believe this could be easily done as a shuttle hike. Trip report All photos from this hike 5-frame HDR shot with a Pentax K20D. HDR generated and tone mapped in Photomatix. Metadata refined in MS Pro Photo Tools and Adobe Lightroom.

Red Mountain Trail No. 159

Red Mountain is a volcanic cinder cone that rises 1,000 feet above the surrounding landscape. It is unusual in having the shape of a "U," and in lacking the symmetrical shape of most cinder cones. In addition, a large natural amphitheater cuts into the cone's northeast flank. Erosional pillars called "hoodoos" decorate the amphitheater, and many dark mineral crystals erode out of its walls. Studies by U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Northern Arizona University scientists suggest that Red Mountain formed in eruptions about 740,000 years ago. The trailhead is located on U.S. Highway 180, 25 miles northwest of Flagstaff, Arizona. The trail is an easy 1.5 miles through open terrain with fantastic views of the San Francisco Peaks and surrounding San Francisco Volcanic Field. There is a short (approximately 6 feet) ladder climb required just before entering the natural amphitheater of the cinder cone. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, February 2015. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Red Mountain Trail #159 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website. Red Mountain is a volcanic cinder cone that rises 1,000 feet above the surrounding landscape. It is unusual in having the shape of a "U," and in lacking the symmetrical shape of most cinder cones. In addition, a large natural amphitheater cuts into the cone's northeast flank. Erosional pillars called "hoodoos" decorate the amphitheater, and many dark mineral crystals erode out of its walls. Studies by U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Northern Arizona University scientists suggest that Red Mountain formed in eruptions about 740,000 years ago. The trailhead is located on U.S. Highway 180, 25 miles northwest of Flagstaff, Arizona. The trail is an easy 1.5 miles through open terrain with fantastic views of the San Francisco Peaks and surrounding San Francisco Volcanic Field. There is a short (approximately 6 feet) ladder climb required just before entering the natural amphitheater of the cinder cone. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, February 2015. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Red Mountain Trail #159 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website.

Arizona mountain landscape

Mogollon Rim

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

Flagstaff, Arizona

Flagstaff, Arizona

Secret Mountain Trail

Secret Mountain Trail. 2009-05-06: On the fourth day of our camping trip on the Mogollon Rim above Sedona, we headed to Secret Mountain Trail #109. The Mangums (authors of Flagstaff Hikes) list this as one of their favorite trails, mentioning they usually stop just past Secret Cabin on the edge of the mountain where there’s a nice view. The weather was unseasonably hot, and we chose this trail not only because it’s interesting, but because it stays at fairly high elevation (instead of diving down into a canyon like so many of the trails in this area). The trail starts off running along a bit of a ridge up to a knob where there are some fantastic views. Diving down to a narrow saddle, the trail meets the top of Loy Canyon Trail, then climbs up to a fairly flat run. Around 1.0 mile are the remains of an old dry tank and corral. It’s almost easy to miss the corral because there’s just a few posts left, as well as a rusty old dredge. Off to the left just past the corral is Johnson Tank. The tank wall reveals signs of masonry work where the dirt has eroded away. Past Johnson Tank, the trail runs above and to the left of a ravine, where two more tanks hold water. The first, Masonry Tank, is built using local stones to dam a narrow, rocky section of the creek bed. The dam creates a small, shallow pond. Below Masonry Tank is Cement Tank, created from three slabs of preformed concrete. This dam creates a rather large, long, and narrow pond which runs back almost to Masonry Tank. There is a rough footpath running from Cement Tank to above Masonry Tank, a lovely diversion from the main trail. According to the Mangums, this area of forest is virgin. Near Cement Tank, the trail descends to a bench along the creek bed where another, more complete corral and Secret Cabin are situated (1.8 miles from the trailhead). Secret Cabin is in fair shape, its walls standing but its roof has collapsed. According to the Mangums, the cabin was built as a failed homestead, and was later inhabited by a family of polygamous Latter Day Saints escaping persecution, then horse thieves who’d bring stolen horses up Loy Canyon from Sedona en route to Flagstaff and northern destinations. Heading uphill past the cabin, the trail leads up to a ridge with a nice view and more corrals. The main trail leads off to the left for another 2.8 miles. Since it was pretty hot weather, we decided to follow the Mangums' recommendation: we had lunch in the shade of a tree, then turned around and headed back to the trailhead, diverting down into the ravine to explore the tanks on the way back. Trip report and full gallery

Mogollon Rim

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

Downtown Flagstaff

Inner Basin Trail No. 29

Fall color on Inner Basin Trail, October 5, 2016. Most trees are peaking or approaching peak color all along the Inner Basin Trail. Trees are approaching or at peak on the lower on Inner Basin Trail and in Lockett Meadow. A majority of the trees are at peak or past peak (and dropping leaves) on the upper part of the trail above Jack Smith Spring and in the Inner Basin. 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 5, 2016. 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. Fall color on Inner Basin Trail, October 5, 2016. Most trees are peaking or approaching peak color all along the Inner Basin Trail. Trees are approaching or at peak on the lower on Inner Basin Trail and in Lockett Meadow. A majority of the trees are at peak or past peak (and dropping leaves) on the upper part of the trail above Jack Smith Spring and in the Inner Basin. 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 5, 2016. 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.

West Fork of Oak Creek

West Fork of Oak Creek On the third day of our camping trip on the Mogollon Rim above Sedona, we headed to the western end of West Fork. The canyon starts on the Rim, intersecting Woody Mountain Road, and cuts east, where it joins Oak Creek Canyon, a total distance of seven or eight miles. At the Oak Creek end, there’s an official trailhead (West Fork #108) at Call o’ the Canyon, which runs about three miles up the canyon. We decided to try hiking the canyon from the western end, where there’s no official trail… as a matter of fact, there’s a lovely Forest Service sign explaining that there’s no official trail there, you’re pretty much on your own, watch out for flash floods, and please don’t die. From the bridge, there’s a well worn path that runs for perhaps 0.5 to 0.75 mile along the banks of the creek. Eventually, the canyon becomes too narrow, and walking on the banks is not possible, and it becomes a boulder hop down the creek bed. Fallen trees and very large boulders make the route a bit challenging. At this point, while the canyon is very pretty, it’s not family friendly or very dog friendly (we had to give ours quite a bit of assistance). Given the amount of scrambling, I don’t think this would be a very fun backpacking trail, but with an early start, I believe this could be easily done as a shuttle hike. Trip report All photos from this hike

Sunset Crater

West Fork of Oak Creek

West Fork of Oak Creek On the third day of our camping trip on the Mogollon Rim above Sedona, we headed to the western end of West Fork. The canyon starts on the Rim, intersecting Woody Mountain Road, and cuts east, where it joins Oak Creek Canyon, a total distance of seven or eight miles. At the Oak Creek end, there’s an official trailhead (West Fork #108) at Call o’ the Canyon, which runs about three miles up the canyon. We decided to try hiking the canyon from the western end, where there’s no official trail… as a matter of fact, there’s a lovely Forest Service sign explaining that there’s no official trail there, you’re pretty much on your own, watch out for flash floods, and please don’t die. From the bridge, there’s a well worn path that runs for perhaps 0.5 to 0.75 mile along the banks of the creek. Eventually, the canyon becomes too narrow, and walking on the banks is not possible, and it becomes a boulder hop down the creek bed. Fallen trees and very large boulders make the route a bit challenging. At this point, while the canyon is very pretty, it’s not family friendly or very dog friendly (we had to give ours quite a bit of assistance). Given the amount of scrambling, I don’t think this would be a very fun backpacking trail, but with an early start, I believe this could be easily done as a shuttle hike. Trip report All photos from this hike

Red Mountain Trail No. 159

Red Mountain is a volcanic cinder cone that rises 1,000 feet above the surrounding landscape. It is unusual in having the shape of a "U," and in lacking the symmetrical shape of most cinder cones. In addition, a large natural amphitheater cuts into the cone's northeast flank. Erosional pillars called "hoodoos" decorate the amphitheater, and many dark mineral crystals erode out of its walls. Studies by U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Northern Arizona University scientists suggest that Red Mountain formed in eruptions about 740,000 years ago. The trailhead is located on U.S. Highway 180, 25 miles northwest of Flagstaff, Arizona. The trail is an easy 1.5 miles through open terrain with fantastic views of the San Francisco Peaks and surrounding San Francisco Volcanic Field. There is a short (approximately 6 feet) ladder climb required just before entering the natural amphitheater of the cinder cone. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, October 2010. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Red Mountain Trail #159 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website. Red Mountain is a volcanic cinder cone that rises 1,000 feet above the surrounding landscape. It is unusual in having the shape of a "U," and in lacking the symmetrical shape of most cinder cones. In addition, a large natural amphitheater cuts into the cone's northeast flank. Erosional pillars called "hoodoos" decorate the amphitheater, and many dark mineral crystals erode out of its walls. Studies by U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Northern Arizona University scientists suggest that Red Mountain formed in eruptions about 740,000 years ago. The trailhead is located on U.S. Highway 180, 25 miles northwest of Flagstaff, Arizona. The trail is an easy 1.5 miles through open terrain with fantastic views of the San Francisco Peaks and surrounding San Francisco Volcanic Field. There is a short (approximately 6 feet) ladder climb required just before entering the natural amphitheater of the cinder cone. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, October 2010. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Red Mountain Trail #159 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website.

Flagstaff, Arizona

Red Mountain Trail No. 159

Red Mountain is a volcanic cinder cone that rises 1,000 feet above the surrounding landscape. It is unusual in having the shape of a "U," and in lacking the symmetrical shape of most cinder cones. In addition, a large natural amphitheater cuts into the cone's northeast flank. Erosional pillars called "hoodoos" decorate the amphitheater, and many dark mineral crystals erode out of its walls. Studies by U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Northern Arizona University scientists suggest that Red Mountain formed in eruptions about 740,000 years ago. The trailhead is located on U.S. Highway 180, 25 miles northwest of Flagstaff, Arizona. The trail is an easy 1.5 miles through open terrain with fantastic views of the San Francisco Peaks and surrounding San Francisco Volcanic Field. There is a short (approximately 6 feet) ladder climb required just before entering the natural amphitheater of the cinder cone. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, February 2015. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Red Mountain Trail #159 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website. Red Mountain is a volcanic cinder cone that rises 1,000 feet above the surrounding landscape. It is unusual in having the shape of a "U," and in lacking the symmetrical shape of most cinder cones. In addition, a large natural amphitheater cuts into the cone's northeast flank. Erosional pillars called "hoodoos" decorate the amphitheater, and many dark mineral crystals erode out of its walls. Studies by U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Northern Arizona University scientists suggest that Red Mountain formed in eruptions about 740,000 years ago. The trailhead is located on U.S. Highway 180, 25 miles northwest of Flagstaff, Arizona. The trail is an easy 1.5 miles through open terrain with fantastic views of the San Francisco Peaks and surrounding San Francisco Volcanic Field. There is a short (approximately 6 feet) ladder climb required just before entering the natural amphitheater of the cinder cone. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, February 2015. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Red Mountain Trail #159 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website.

Lost Lake

Lost Lake Tank (upper, larger tank). 2009-05-07: On the fifth day of our camping trip on the Mogollon Rim we were still looking to beat the heat by staying above the rim. I’d noticed a route marked as a trail on my GPS (the base map on my Garmin Oregon 400T) leading to a spot marked Lost Lake. We headed for trail, turning off of the main road onto a jeep track. The route quickly got rocky, and we assumed it was petering out, so we parked and started hiking. Within a couple hundred feet, the route turned back into a smooth, dirt, two-track road… basically, quite driveable. We hiked it anyway. There was a tree blocking the road about halfway to Lost Lake, but aside from that the route is a well maintained route, with a couple side-roads heading off of it. The road gently ascends to the top of a hill, where Lost Lake is actually a pair of tanks. The upper tank is quite large, and both had water in them. There were a few wildflowers, and butterflies and western tanagers were flitting about. It’s a very pretty area, and quite likely an excellent place for bird watching. Lost Lake is definitely worth a visit, whether hiking or driving. The tanks are surrounded by forest, and we took advantage of the shade to have lunch, enjoy the beautiful day, and catch a quick nap. Hiking report View all photos from this hike

Western tanager

Western tanager. 2009-05-07: On the fifth day of our camping trip on the Mogollon Rim we were still looking to beat the heat by staying above the rim. I’d noticed a route marked as a trail on my GPS (the base map on my Garmin Oregon 400T) leading to a spot marked Lost Lake. We headed for trail, turning off of the main road onto a jeep track. The route quickly got rocky, and we assumed it was petering out, so we parked and started hiking. Within a couple hundred feet, the route turned back into a smooth, dirt, two-track road… basically, quite driveable. We hiked it anyway. There was a tree blocking the road about halfway to Lost Lake, but aside from that the route is a well maintained route, with a couple side-roads heading off of it. The road gently ascends to the top of a hill, where Lost Lake is actually a pair of tanks. The upper tank is quite large, and both had water in them. There were a few wildflowers, and butterflies and western tanagers were flitting about. It’s a very pretty area, and quite likely an excellent place for bird watching. Lost Lake is definitely worth a visit, whether hiking or driving. The tanks are surrounded by forest, and we took advantage of the shade to have lunch, enjoy the beautiful day, and catch a quick nap. Hiking report View all photos from this hike

Flagstaff, Arizona

Flagstaff, Arizona

Aerial view of Northern Arizona University and Flagstaff, Arizona

West Fork of Oak Creek

West Fork of Oak Creek On the third day of our camping trip on the Mogollon Rim above Sedona, we headed to the western end of West Fork. The canyon starts on the Rim, intersecting Woody Mountain Road, and cuts east, where it joins Oak Creek Canyon, a total distance of seven or eight miles. At the Oak Creek end, there’s an official trailhead (West Fork #108) at Call o’ the Canyon, which runs about three miles up the canyon. We decided to try hiking the canyon from the western end, where there’s no official trail… as a matter of fact, there’s a lovely Forest Service sign explaining that there’s no official trail there, you’re pretty much on your own, watch out for flash floods, and please don’t die. From the bridge, there’s a well worn path that runs for perhaps 0.5 to 0.75 mile along the banks of the creek. Eventually, the canyon becomes too narrow, and walking on the banks is not possible, and it becomes a boulder hop down the creek bed. Fallen trees and very large boulders make the route a bit challenging. At this point, while the canyon is very pretty, it’s not family friendly or very dog friendly (we had to give ours quite a bit of assistance). Given the amount of scrambling, I don’t think this would be a very fun backpacking trail, but with an early start, I believe this could be easily done as a shuttle hike. Trip report All photos from this hike

West Fork of Oak Creek

West Fork of Oak Creek On the third day of our camping trip on the Mogollon Rim above Sedona, we headed to the western end of West Fork. The canyon starts on the Rim, intersecting Woody Mountain Road, and cuts east, where it joins Oak Creek Canyon, a total distance of seven or eight miles. At the Oak Creek end, there’s an official trailhead (West Fork #108) at Call o’ the Canyon, which runs about three miles up the canyon. We decided to try hiking the canyon from the western end, where there’s no official trail… as a matter of fact, there’s a lovely Forest Service sign explaining that there’s no official trail there, you’re pretty much on your own, watch out for flash floods, and please don’t die. From the bridge, there’s a well worn path that runs for perhaps 0.5 to 0.75 mile along the banks of the creek. Eventually, the canyon becomes too narrow, and walking on the banks is not possible, and it becomes a boulder hop down the creek bed. Fallen trees and very large boulders make the route a bit challenging. At this point, while the canyon is very pretty, it’s not family friendly or very dog friendly (we had to give ours quite a bit of assistance). Given the amount of scrambling, I don’t think this would be a very fun backpacking trail, but with an early start, I believe this could be easily done as a shuttle hike. Trip report All photos from this hike

Mogollon Rim

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

Secret Cabin

Secret Cabin on Secret Mountain Trail. 2009-05-06: On the fourth day of our camping trip on the Mogollon Rim above Sedona, we headed to Secret Mountain Trail #109. The Mangums (authors of Flagstaff Hikes) list this as one of their favorite trails, mentioning they usually stop just past Secret Cabin on the edge of the mountain where there’s a nice view. The weather was unseasonably hot, and we chose this trail not only because it’s interesting, but because it stays at fairly high elevation (instead of diving down into a canyon like so many of the trails in this area). The trail starts off running along a bit of a ridge up to a knob where there are some fantastic views. Diving down to a narrow saddle, the trail meets the top of Loy Canyon Trail, then climbs up to a fairly flat run. Around 1.0 mile are the remains of an old dry tank and corral. It’s almost easy to miss the corral because there’s just a few posts left, as well as a rusty old dredge. Off to the left just past the corral is Johnson Tank. The tank wall reveals signs of masonry work where the dirt has eroded away. Past Johnson Tank, the trail runs above and to the left of a ravine, where two more tanks hold water. The first, Masonry Tank, is built using local stones to dam a narrow, rocky section of the creek bed. The dam creates a small, shallow pond. Below Masonry Tank is Cement Tank, created from three slabs of preformed concrete. This dam creates a rather large, long, and narrow pond which runs back almost to Masonry Tank. There is a rough footpath running from Cement Tank to above Masonry Tank, a lovely diversion from the main trail. According to the Mangums, this area of forest is virgin. Near Cement Tank, the trail descends to a bench along the creek bed where another, more complete corral and Secret Cabin are situated (1.8 miles from the trailhead). Secret Cabin is in fair shape, its walls standing but its roof has collapsed. According to the Mangums, the cabin was built as a failed homestead, and was later inhabited by a family of polygamous Latter Day Saints escaping persecution, then horse thieves who’d bring stolen horses up Loy Canyon from Sedona en route to Flagstaff and northern destinations. Heading uphill past the cabin, the trail leads up to a ridge with a nice view and more corrals. The main trail leads off to the left for another 2.8 miles. Since it was pretty hot weather, we decided to follow the Mangums' recommendation: we had lunch in the shade of a tree, then turned around and headed back to the trailhead, diverting down into the ravine to explore the tanks on the way back. Trip report and full gallery

Red Mountain Trail No. 159

Red Mountain is a volcanic cinder cone that rises 1,000 feet above the surrounding landscape. It is unusual in having the shape of a "U," and in lacking the symmetrical shape of most cinder cones. In addition, a large natural amphitheater cuts into the cone's northeast flank. Erosional pillars called "hoodoos" decorate the amphitheater, and many dark mineral crystals erode out of its walls. Studies by U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Northern Arizona University scientists suggest that Red Mountain formed in eruptions about 740,000 years ago. The trailhead is located on U.S. Highway 180, 25 miles northwest of Flagstaff, Arizona. The trail is an easy 1.5 miles through open terrain with fantastic views of the San Francisco Peaks and surrounding San Francisco Volcanic Field. There is a short (approximately 6 feet) ladder climb required just before entering the natural amphitheater of the cinder cone. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, October 2010. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Red Mountain Trail #159 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website. Red Mountain is a volcanic cinder cone that rises 1,000 feet above the surrounding landscape. It is unusual in having the shape of a "U," and in lacking the symmetrical shape of most cinder cones. In addition, a large natural amphitheater cuts into the cone's northeast flank. Erosional pillars called "hoodoos" decorate the amphitheater, and many dark mineral crystals erode out of its walls. Studies by U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Northern Arizona University scientists suggest that Red Mountain formed in eruptions about 740,000 years ago. The trailhead is located on U.S. Highway 180, 25 miles northwest of Flagstaff, Arizona. The trail is an easy 1.5 miles through open terrain with fantastic views of the San Francisco Peaks and surrounding San Francisco Volcanic Field. There is a short (approximately 6 feet) ladder climb required just before entering the natural amphitheater of the cinder cone. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, October 2010. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Red Mountain Trail #159 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website.

West Fork of Oak Creek

West Fork of Oak Creek On the third day of our camping trip on the Mogollon Rim above Sedona, we headed to the western end of West Fork. The canyon starts on the Rim, intersecting Woody Mountain Road, and cuts east, where it joins Oak Creek Canyon, a total distance of seven or eight miles. At the Oak Creek end, there’s an official trailhead (West Fork #108) at Call o’ the Canyon, which runs about three miles up the canyon. We decided to try hiking the canyon from the western end, where there’s no official trail… as a matter of fact, there’s a lovely Forest Service sign explaining that there’s no official trail there, you’re pretty much on your own, watch out for flash floods, and please don’t die. From the bridge, there’s a well worn path that runs for perhaps 0.5 to 0.75 mile along the banks of the creek. Eventually, the canyon becomes too narrow, and walking on the banks is not possible, and it becomes a boulder hop down the creek bed. Fallen trees and very large boulders make the route a bit challenging. At this point, while the canyon is very pretty, it’s not family friendly or very dog friendly (we had to give ours quite a bit of assistance). Given the amount of scrambling, I don’t think this would be a very fun backpacking trail, but with an early start, I believe this could be easily done as a shuttle hike. Trip report All photos from this hike

Flagstaff, Arizona Airport

Masonry Tank

Masonry Tank. 2009-05-06: On the fourth day of our camping trip on the Mogollon Rim above Sedona, we headed to Secret Mountain Trail #109. The Mangums (authors of Flagstaff Hikes) list this as one of their favorite trails, mentioning they usually stop just past Secret Cabin on the edge of the mountain where there’s a nice view. The weather was unseasonably hot, and we chose this trail not only because it’s interesting, but because it stays at fairly high elevation (instead of diving down into a canyon like so many of the trails in this area). The trail starts off running along a bit of a ridge up to a knob where there are some fantastic views. Diving down to a narrow saddle, the trail meets the top of Loy Canyon Trail, then climbs up to a fairly flat run. Around 1.0 mile are the remains of an old dry tank and corral. It’s almost easy to miss the corral because there’s just a few posts left, as well as a rusty old dredge. Off to the left just past the corral is Johnson Tank. The tank wall reveals signs of masonry work where the dirt has eroded away. Past Johnson Tank, the trail runs above and to the left of a ravine, where two more tanks hold water. The first, Masonry Tank, is built using local stones to dam a narrow, rocky section of the creek bed. The dam creates a small, shallow pond. Below Masonry Tank is Cement Tank, created from three slabs of preformed concrete. This dam creates a rather large, long, and narrow pond which runs back almost to Masonry Tank. There is a rough footpath running from Cement Tank to above Masonry Tank, a lovely diversion from the main trail. According to the Mangums, this area of forest is virgin. Near Cement Tank, the trail descends to a bench along the creek bed where another, more complete corral and Secret Cabin are situated (1.8 miles from the trailhead). Secret Cabin is in fair shape, its walls standing but its roof has collapsed. According to the Mangums, the cabin was built as a failed homestead, and was later inhabited by a family of polygamous Latter Day Saints escaping persecution, then horse thieves who’d bring stolen horses up Loy Canyon from Sedona en route to Flagstaff and northern destinations. Heading uphill past the cabin, the trail leads up to a ridge with a nice view and more corrals. The main trail leads off to the left for another 2.8 miles. Since it was pretty hot weather, we decided to follow the Mangums' recommendation: we had lunch in the shade of a tree, then turned around and headed back to the trailhead, diverting down into the ravine to explore the tanks on the way back. Trip report and full gallery

Secret Mountain Trail

Secret Mountain Trail. 2009-05-06: On the fourth day of our camping trip on the Mogollon Rim above Sedona, we headed to Secret Mountain Trail #109. The Mangums (authors of Flagstaff Hikes) list this as one of their favorite trails, mentioning they usually stop just past Secret Cabin on the edge of the mountain where there’s a nice view. The weather was unseasonably hot, and we chose this trail not only because it’s interesting, but because it stays at fairly high elevation (instead of diving down into a canyon like so many of the trails in this area). The trail starts off running along a bit of a ridge up to a knob where there are some fantastic views. Diving down to a narrow saddle, the trail meets the top of Loy Canyon Trail, then climbs up to a fairly flat run. Around 1.0 mile are the remains of an old dry tank and corral. It’s almost easy to miss the corral because there’s just a few posts left, as well as a rusty old dredge. Off to the left just past the corral is Johnson Tank. The tank wall reveals signs of masonry work where the dirt has eroded away. Past Johnson Tank, the trail runs above and to the left of a ravine, where two more tanks hold water. The first, Masonry Tank, is built using local stones to dam a narrow, rocky section of the creek bed. The dam creates a small, shallow pond. Below Masonry Tank is Cement Tank, created from three slabs of preformed concrete. This dam creates a rather large, long, and narrow pond which runs back almost to Masonry Tank. There is a rough footpath running from Cement Tank to above Masonry Tank, a lovely diversion from the main trail. According to the Mangums, this area of forest is virgin. Near Cement Tank, the trail descends to a bench along the creek bed where another, more complete corral and Secret Cabin are situated (1.8 miles from the trailhead). Secret Cabin is in fair shape, its walls standing but its roof has collapsed. According to the Mangums, the cabin was built as a failed homestead, and was later inhabited by a family of polygamous Latter Day Saints escaping persecution, then horse thieves who’d bring stolen horses up Loy Canyon from Sedona en route to Flagstaff and northern destinations. Heading uphill past the cabin, the trail leads up to a ridge with a nice view and more corrals. The main trail leads off to the left for another 2.8 miles. Since it was pretty hot weather, we decided to follow the Mangums' recommendation: we had lunch in the shade of a tree, then turned around and headed back to the trailhead, diverting down into the ravine to explore the tanks on the way back. Trip report and full gallery

Red Mountain Trail No. 159

Red Mountain is a volcanic cinder cone that rises 1,000 feet above the surrounding landscape. It is unusual in having the shape of a "U," and in lacking the symmetrical shape of most cinder cones. In addition, a large natural amphitheater cuts into the cone's northeast flank. Erosional pillars called "hoodoos" decorate the amphitheater, and many dark mineral crystals erode out of its walls. Studies by U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Northern Arizona University scientists suggest that Red Mountain formed in eruptions about 740,000 years ago. The trailhead is located on U.S. Highway 180, 25 miles northwest of Flagstaff, Arizona. The trail is an easy 1.5 miles through open terrain with fantastic views of the San Francisco Peaks and surrounding San Francisco Volcanic Field. There is a short (approximately 6 feet) ladder climb required just before entering the natural amphitheater of the cinder cone. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, February 2015. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Red Mountain Trail #159 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website. Red Mountain is a volcanic cinder cone that rises 1,000 feet above the surrounding landscape. It is unusual in having the shape of a "U," and in lacking the symmetrical shape of most cinder cones. In addition, a large natural amphitheater cuts into the cone's northeast flank. Erosional pillars called "hoodoos" decorate the amphitheater, and many dark mineral crystals erode out of its walls. Studies by U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Northern Arizona University scientists suggest that Red Mountain formed in eruptions about 740,000 years ago. The trailhead is located on U.S. Highway 180, 25 miles northwest of Flagstaff, Arizona. The trail is an easy 1.5 miles through open terrain with fantastic views of the San Francisco Peaks and surrounding San Francisco Volcanic Field. There is a short (approximately 6 feet) ladder climb required just before entering the natural amphitheater of the cinder cone. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, February 2015. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Red Mountain Trail #159 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website.

Flagstaff, Arizona

Flagstaff, Arizona 2021 aerial view

Mogollon Rim

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

West Fork of Oak Creek

Stuart helping pups up over a rock fall. On the third day of our camping trip on the Mogollon Rim above Sedona, we headed to the western end of West Fork. The canyon starts on the Rim, intersecting Woody Mountain Road, and cuts east, where it joins Oak Creek Canyon, a total distance of seven or eight miles. At the Oak Creek end, there’s an official trailhead (West Fork #108) at Call o’ the Canyon, which runs about three miles up the canyon. We decided to try hiking the canyon from the western end, where there’s no official trail… as a matter of fact, there’s a lovely Forest Service sign explaining that there’s no official trail there, you’re pretty much on your own, watch out for flash floods, and please don’t die. From the bridge, there’s a well worn path that runs for perhaps 0.5 to 0.75 mile along the banks of the creek. Eventually, the canyon becomes too narrow, and walking on the banks is not possible, and it becomes a boulder hop down the creek bed. Fallen trees and very large boulders make the route a bit challenging. At this point, while the canyon is very pretty, it’s not family friendly or very dog friendly (we had to give ours quite a bit of assistance). Given the amount of scrambling, I don’t think this would be a very fun backpacking trail, but with an early start, I believe this could be easily done as a shuttle hike. Trip report All photos from this hike. Stuart helping pups up over a rock fall. On the third day of our camping trip on the Mogollon Rim above Sedona, we headed to the western end of West Fork. The canyon starts on the Rim, intersecting Woody Mountain Road, and cuts east, where it joins Oak Creek Canyon, a total distance of seven or eight miles. At the Oak Creek end, there’s an official trailhead (West Fork #108) at Call o’ the Canyon, which runs about three miles up the canyon. We decided to try hiking the canyon from the western end, where there’s no official trail… as a matter of fact, there’s a lovely Forest Service sign explaining that there’s no official trail there, you’re pretty much on your own, watch out for flash floods, and please don’t die. From the bridge, there’s a well worn path that runs for perhaps 0.5 to 0.75 mile along the banks of the creek. Eventually, the canyon becomes too narrow, and walking on the banks is not possible, and it becomes a boulder hop down the creek bed. Fallen trees and very large boulders make the route a bit challenging. At this point, while the canyon is very pretty, it’s not family friendly or very dog friendly (we had to give ours quite a bit of assistance). Given the amount of scrambling, I don’t think this would be a very fun backpacking trail, but with an early start, I believe this could be easily done as a shuttle hike. Trip report All photos from this hike

Red Mountain Trail No. 159

Red Mountain is a volcanic cinder cone that rises 1,000 feet above the surrounding landscape. It is unusual in having the shape of a "U," and in lacking the symmetrical shape of most cinder cones. In addition, a large natural amphitheater cuts into the cone's northeast flank. Erosional pillars called "hoodoos" decorate the amphitheater, and many dark mineral crystals erode out of its walls. Studies by U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Northern Arizona University scientists suggest that Red Mountain formed in eruptions about 740,000 years ago. The trailhead is located on U.S. Highway 180, 25 miles northwest of Flagstaff, Arizona. The trail is an easy 1.5 miles through open terrain with fantastic views of the San Francisco Peaks and surrounding San Francisco Volcanic Field. There is a short (approximately 6 feet) ladder climb required just before entering the natural amphitheater of the cinder cone. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, February 2015. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Red Mountain Trail #159 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website. Red Mountain is a volcanic cinder cone that rises 1,000 feet above the surrounding landscape. It is unusual in having the shape of a "U," and in lacking the symmetrical shape of most cinder cones. In addition, a large natural amphitheater cuts into the cone's northeast flank. Erosional pillars called "hoodoos" decorate the amphitheater, and many dark mineral crystals erode out of its walls. Studies by U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Northern Arizona University scientists suggest that Red Mountain formed in eruptions about 740,000 years ago. The trailhead is located on U.S. Highway 180, 25 miles northwest of Flagstaff, Arizona. The trail is an easy 1.5 miles through open terrain with fantastic views of the San Francisco Peaks and surrounding San Francisco Volcanic Field. There is a short (approximately 6 feet) ladder climb required just before entering the natural amphitheater of the cinder cone. Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, February 2015. Credit: U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest. For more information about this trail, see the Red Mountain Trail #159 trail description on the Coconino National Forest website.

Secret Cabin

Secret Cabin. 2009-05-06: On the fourth day of our camping trip on the Mogollon Rim above Sedona, we headed to Secret Mountain Trail #109. The Mangums (authors of Flagstaff Hikes) list this as one of their favorite trails, mentioning they usually stop just past Secret Cabin on the edge of the mountain where there’s a nice view. The weather was unseasonably hot, and we chose this trail not only because it’s interesting, but because it stays at fairly high elevation (instead of diving down into a canyon like so many of the trails in this area). The trail starts off running along a bit of a ridge up to a knob where there are some fantastic views. Diving down to a narrow saddle, the trail meets the top of Loy Canyon Trail, then climbs up to a fairly flat run. Around 1.0 mile are the remains of an old dry tank and corral. It’s almost easy to miss the corral because there’s just a few posts left, as well as a rusty old dredge. Off to the left just past the corral is Johnson Tank. The tank wall reveals signs of masonry work where the dirt has eroded away. Past Johnson Tank, the trail runs above and to the left of a ravine, where two more tanks hold water. The first, Masonry Tank, is built using local stones to dam a narrow, rocky section of the creek bed. The dam creates a small, shallow pond. Below Masonry Tank is Cement Tank, created from three slabs of preformed concrete. This dam creates a rather large, long, and narrow pond which runs back almost to Masonry Tank. There is a rough footpath running from Cement Tank to above Masonry Tank, a lovely diversion from the main trail. According to the Mangums, this area of forest is virgin. Near Cement Tank, the trail descends to a bench along the creek bed where another, more complete corral and Secret Cabin are situated (1.8 miles from the trailhead). Secret Cabin is in fair shape, its walls standing but its roof has collapsed. According to the Mangums, the cabin was built as a failed homestead, and was later inhabited by a family of polygamous Latter Day Saints escaping persecution, then horse thieves who’d bring stolen horses up Loy Canyon from Sedona en route to Flagstaff and northern destinations. Heading uphill past the cabin, the trail leads up to a ridge with a nice view and more corrals. The main trail leads off to the left for another 2.8 miles. Since it was pretty hot weather, we decided to follow the Mangums' recommendation: we had lunch in the shade of a tree, then turned around and headed back to the trailhead, diverting down into the ravine to explore the tanks on the way back. Trip report and full gallery

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