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- Humphreys Peak
12,633 ft · San Francisco Peaks, Arizona
Humphreys Peak
Humphreys Peak is a 12,633 ft peak in the San Francisco Peaks, Arizona. The standard route is the Humphreys Peak Trail: 9 mi, 3,346 ft of gain, Class 1.
Humphreys Peak at a glance
- Elevation12,633 ft3,850 m
- RouteHumphreys Peak TrailClass 1
- Distance9 mi3,346 ft gain
- Time6 – 9 hrsHard effort
- SeasonJun – Oct
- RangeSan Francisco PeaksArizona
Climbing the Humphreys Peak Trail
From Flagstaff, Arizona, take US-180 north to the Snowbowl ski area, then follow signs to the upper parking lot where the trail begins. This is a high-elevation hike reaching nearly 12,700 feet, with thin air affecting many hikers. Frequent high winds and afternoon thunderstorms are common hazards. Start early and plan to be off the summit by noon. The trail passes through beautiful aspen and spruce-fir forest before emerging above treeline. Excellent views of the Grand Canyon region from the summit. No permits required. Best hiked June through October when snow-free.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (25–35 L)
Water
First-Aid Kit
Offline Maps
Headlamp
Hiking Boots
Base Layer
Midlayer
Insulated Jacket
Hardshell Jacket
Sun Hat
Warm Hat
Buff
Heavyweight Gloves
Trekking Poles
Helmet
GPS Device
Power Bank
Water Filter
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
What to watch for
- High winds
- Storms
- Loose rock
- Steep exposure
- High altitude
- Altitude sickness
- Snow near summit
- Ice near summit
- Cold summit conditions
- Rapid weather shifts
- Low visibility
Humphreys Peak on Yak
Climbers have shared 12 climbs of Humphreys Peak on Yak. Read their trip reports and recent conditions in the app
Quests with Humphreys Peak
50 State Highpoints
Lower 48 UltrasFrequently asked questions
How tall is Humphreys Peak?
Humphreys Peak is 12,633 feet (3,850 m) tall. It is in the San Francisco Peaks, Arizona.
Is Humphreys Peak the highest point in Arizona?
Yes. At 12,633 feet, Humphreys Peak is the highest point in Arizona.
How hard is it to hike Humphreys Peak?
The Humphreys Peak Trail is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates the overall effort hard: 9 miles with 3,346 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Humphreys Peak?
Most people take 6 – 9 hours round trip on the Humphreys Peak Trail, covering 9 miles with 3,346 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Humphreys Peak?
The Humphreys Peak Trail needs no climbing skills, but it is a hard day: 9 miles with 3,346 feet of elevation gain. Build up on shorter hikes first, start early and carry plenty of water and layers.
Do you need a helmet for Humphreys Peak?
It is a good idea. Loose rock and rockfall are common on the Humphreys Peak Trail, so a helmet is on the gear list.
Will you get altitude sickness on Humphreys Peak?
You might. Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Humphreys Peak reaches 12,633 feet. Spend a night or two at elevation first, drink plenty of water and turn back if a headache, nausea or dizziness gets worse.
What time should you start hiking Humphreys Peak?
Early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so aim to be off the summit and the exposed upper mountain by early afternoon.
When is the best time to hike Humphreys Peak?
The usual hiking window is June to October. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
What is the trailhead elevation for Humphreys Peak?
The Humphreys Peak Trail starts at about 9,280 feet, roughly 3,353 feet below the summit.
Climb Humphreys Peak with Yak
Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list