Fall colors on the Inner Basin in Flagstaff, Arizona

Lockett Meadow to Inner Basin, a spectacular 1.7 mile out-and-back journey through towering aspen trees, is Flagstaff’s premier fall and summer hike. If there is any trail to add to your Northern Arizona outdoor adventure bucket list, the Inner Basin hike is definitely one of the most worthy additions. You will start at Lockett Meadow campground and begin your journey into the heart of the San Francisco Peaks, an extinct volcanic mountain range with a height of over 12,000 feet. Humphrey’s, at 12633 feet, is the tallest peak in Arizona.

Summer views of the San Francisco Peaks from Lockett Meadow in Flagstaff

A cool respite from the heat

While the trail sparkles in October with hundreds of beautiful golden quaking aspens lining the entire route, a summer visit holds its’ own special beauty. At 8500-10,000+ feet in elevation, Inner Basin is hands down one of the best places to be on a hot summer Arizona afternoon. And although many residents of brutally hot desert cities like Phoenix and Tucson make the 2 hour drive to Flagstaff nearly every summer weekend, the Inner Basin trail still remains quiet with never more than handful of hikers on the trail at one time (with the exception of the busy peak fall weeks).

Beautiful summer views along the Inner Basin trail in Flagstaff AZ
Fall hiking along the Inner Basin trail.
Fall hiking along the Inner Basin trail.

Because high elevation area tend to be at least 15-20 degrees cooler, even a hike on the hottest summer day is still possible. While summer temps in Flagstaff are pretty mild for the most part (typically in the low 80’s), it still is quite easy to overheat due to the intense heat of the blaring sun. The sun tends to feel much more intense at high altitude (Flagstaff is located at 7000 feet) and unfortunately many of the trails within city limits offer little shade. However, Inner Basin keeps cool all summer long due to the very high altitude combined with dense tree coverage.

Pines and aspens along the Inner Basin trail in Flagstaff AZ

During your summer hike, you will enjoy a picturesque walk through towering green aspens. The contrast between the white trunks, green leaves, and a blue sunny sky are simply incredibly, and as you can imagine, make for some pretty incredible photos.

Beautiful tall aspens lining the Inner Basin trail in Flagstaff AZ

You may also see wildflowers in a range of pretty hues like the purple ones seen below.

Pretty purple wildflowrs on the Inner Basin trail in Flagstaff AZ

The best time to hike Inner Basin

The best part of a summer visit is the lack of crowds as compared to the busy fall season. During the peak of fall, you may have to wait at least an hour just to drive up the narrow mountain road to the trail parking lot. Note that entry is limited due to the narrow nature of the road and limited number of parking spaces. Surprisingly, not as many tourists take the time to explore this beautiful trail come summer. This is quite surprising given how many tourists stay here each weekend to visit the Grand Canyon and other national parks in the region. Luckily, for any hiker who decides to embark on the trail, this means a nice secluded nature trek through one of Flagstaff’s most picturesque areas.

Inner Basin trail in Flagstaff

A hard hike that is worth the effort!

You will also get in a fabulous workout as the entire first 1.7 mile section is almost entirely uphill. It’s a rough workout due to the high altitude and hills, however, so worth it for the tranquil walk through the unending forest of rare-for-Arizona aspens. The way down is where you can really take in the scenery as you catch your breath and relax and enjoy nature a bit.

While the Inner Basin trail is definitely not recommended for those out of shape or anyone else who has not had the time to get acclimatized to the high elevation, it is a must-do for any regular hiker up for a moderate challenge.

If traveling from a low elevation area, give your body a change to get accustomed to the high elevation before attempting this hike. Many visiting hikers (even those in good shape) end up hospitalized every year due to dehydration and altitude sickness! So take it easy and enjoy the views! Bring plenty of water and eat a few snacks to replace lost electrolytes. Also be aware of rapidly changing weather during summer monsoon season.

Hiking Details

To get to the Inner Basin trailhead, Drive northeast of Flagstaff on US Highway 89 for 12.5 miles. Turn left on Forest Road 552. Follow FR 552 for a mile. Turn right when you see the Lockett Meadow sign and continue on to the campground area. Note that this is a semi rough dirt road. It may be closed following heavy snow. There is no fee to park.
Total Distance: 3.4 miles
Elevation: 8600-10,500 feet
Total Time: ~2 hours
Difficulty level: Moderate due to the beginning uphill climb and high altitude. May be even harder for those visiting from low altitude areas.
Best season: Late spring to early fall

More info on Inner Basin