Scenic USA - Arizona

Each day Scenic USA presents a new and interesting photo feature from somewhere in the United States. Chosen from a wide variety
of historic sites, city scenes, backcountry byways, points of interest and America's best parklands, this site offers the viewer hundreds
of unique vacation destinations and photographic subjects. Each feature is coupled with a brief explanation. For further detailed
information, links to other sites are provided, but are never to be considered an endorsement.

Kachina Leaf Lane - Best of Scenic USA

Kachina Leaf Lane - Kachina Peaks Wilderness, Arizona

Photos by Dr. Rob Jones
Rob's Humphreys Peak Trip Report

     Often visible from Flagstaff, the San Francisco Mountains rise more than a mile above the surrounding grasslands and forests of northern Arizona. Part of the southern Colorado Plateau and topped off with the tallest peak in the state, this mountain area is believed to be the remains of a large strato-volcano. The tree covered basin is actually a huge caldera formed during a series of eruptions beginning about one million years ago.
     The Kachina Peaks Wilderness area is associated Weatherford Trail Sign - Kachina Peaks Wilderness, Arizona with a mountain complex biome, ranging from desert species at the lowest elevations, up through aspen and conifer forests to an alpine tundra zone above the tree line.
     Just a sort distance from Flagstaff, hikers find the Kachina Peaks Wilderness dotted with trails throughout its 74,000 acres. This inviting scene found along Weatherford Trail, gives a strong hint that this section of wilderness land is covered with a dense aspen grove. The Weatherford Trail follows an old auto road (mechanical vehicles are restricted) and intersects with Humphreys Peak Trail. Ambitious hikers may take this route to the highest peak in Arizona. Views from the top on Humphreys Peak take in the City of Flagstaff, Oak Creek Canyon and beyond to Verde Valley.

    Area Map