A Beautiful Autumn Walk Along the Inner Basin Trail in Flagstaff

Flagstaff is the highest elevated city in the state of Arizona at 7000 feet. After a few weeks of getting used to the high altitude, Mike and I began checking out all the wonderful trails. This city is a hiker’s dream vacation. The many aspen trees along the trails also make it a popular leaf peeping destination come fall. Since moving to the area, I quickly learned that one particular hike is the go-to for almost all tourists coming from Phoenix. I would easily place the Inner Basin near the top of my favorite hikes list. It’s an amazing experience as long as you are up for a rather steep, high altitude challenge. If you are, then great, this hike should please.

While all the hikes in this region are beautiful, this one features a 4 mile round trip hike through the heart of the San Francisco mountains. Just know that it is a rarity to just drive up to the trailhead. The drive up the road is scary and parking is limited, so there is always a wait during peak. After experiencing it for myself, I can say that the wait is worth it. The foliage is so incredible, perhaps even topping the best I’ve seen while residing in New England a few years back.

The abundance of aspen trees, gorgeous mountain scenery, and the peaceful location far away from the city congestion easily make it one of my most recommended trails, despite the hassle. Once you get on the trail, the congestion is not that bad, it’s more the waiting. Everyone hikes at their own pace, so you still get a bit of that lost in nature vibe here and there.

As you can see in my photos, there are not that many people on the trail at any one point. In fact, I am a little afraid of seeing a bear anytime I hike this one; they are rarely spotted, but even the possibility frightens me. I read up on bear safety tips and you should too before heading out.

During your hike, the most amazing yellow foliage surrounds you in every direction. I can’t imagine any hike topping this one. I really love aspen trees; they turn the most brilliant gold color and the constrast with the pines is so incredible. If the sky is really blue, the yellow tends to pop out even more. Before moving to the city, I never really hiked many high altitude trails so this is a new experience for me. Let’s just say that I have been totally impressed with everything I have seen thus far. Update: After living in the region for 2 years, I can say that this hike definitely makes my Arizona autumn to-do list for sure.

The trail is also open to mountain bikers. We saw many mountain bikers coming in each direction, which seems really scary and a bit risky in my opinion!

A hard climb, but worth it for the amazing foliage

The trail is 1.7 miles each way, which may seem easy to a regular hiker, however, it’s basically uphill for an entire 2 miles. You also have to take the high altitude into account (8600-10500 feet!). Luckily, you can relax a bit more on the return route, which is all downhill. I use this time to take more pictures and refill on water.

Those not accustomed to the high elevation should drink plenty of water and take it really slow. And preferably, get used to the elevation around town for a few days before attempting this hike. Here are some good tips you can read to avoid altitude sickness which is quite common in this area. I was feeling pretty bad for a few days after moving here and slowly worked myself up to hiking longer and harder trails. I don’t recommend hiking until you’ve been here a few days.

The beginning of the trail travels through a pretty mixture of ponderosa pine and aspen forest. The striking difference between the golden aspens and green pines makes for one incredible fall scene. If you are able to complete the entire hike, you will notice the aspens become more dense and colorful as you hike further along. The trail only becomes more beautiful the further you continue on.

But don’t feel like you have to complete the entire thing – we saw numerous hikers turn around. You will get to see a lot of beauty even just going a mile out. I just can’t get enough of the bright blue sky contrasting with the yellow aspens: it’s truly amazing.

Is this really Arizona?

As you meander along the trail, you will come across more and more aspens which shimmer a beautiful golden hue in the sun. The weather is usually beautiful this time of the year with temperatures in the 50’s and 60’s with little rain. I also love seeing the fallen leaves on the ground. This time of year, the perfect hike to me will consist of just enough leaves to crunch on with the majority of the trees a nice golden color. I am still shocked that you can see colors this vibrant in Arizona of all places. Hiking this trail is basically the polar opposite of what you would expect to find in this state (for those unfamiliar with the landscapes).

When you arrive near the summit, mountains suddenly surround you. The mountains covered with aspens are truly breathtaking. The picture-perfect opportunities seem to never end. Every turn, I find myself reaching for my camera. What a scene!

This hike is pretty darn popular

Not surprisingly, many residents from Phoenix, Sedona, and Tucson flock to the area most weekends in October. I would too after a summer of never ending 100+ degree temps. Due to the high number of people longing for a little hint of autumn color and brisk temperatures, this trail remains crowded throughout peak.

On the first 2 weekends of October, this trail is so popular that traffic has to be monitored. Due to the small parking lot and narrow road, only a select number of cars are let in at a time. A 50 car line wait is not unusual!

Despite the hassle, I believe this hike is worth going out of your way for if you love leaf peeping. Not only is the scenery incredible, but the drive to the hike itself is just as spectacular. There is the most amazing San Fran Peak vista right before you make your way up the windy, narrow road. I love the hint of snow and reminder of the wintry weather to come. On a side note, this city is awesome in winter too (great snowshoeing and skiing!).

A picture-perfect viewpoint if there ever was one!

Anyone visiting from a hot area of the Southwest (and longing for a bit of autumn fun) should definitely plan for an October hike. The same goes for anyone else who enjoys the colorful leaves, cool temperatures, and near perfect hiking conditions.

When is peak?

Color is typically strongest the first 2 weeks of October, but this is just an estimate. You will want to check the Flagstaff Leaf O Meter to time your hike correctly.

Arrive as early as possible on weekend mornings to avoid a lengthy wait to get in. For example, even on 10am on a Sunday, we still had to wait over a half hour. Expect the wait to be much longer Saturday afternoons. Or better yet, plan your hike on a weekday if possible.

Tips for a great experience

Bring lots of water. It’s a long hike and the elevation is very high, thus requiring you to take in extra fluids. You can dehydrate much easier due to the lower oxygen levels and dry air. Electrolyte drinks are a good idea.

Eat a full meal before setting out for your hike. Due to many contributing factors such as the long waiting time to get in during the busy fall season, the high altitude, and the strenuous uphill climb, you will thank yourself later as taking in extra carbs will reduce your chances of getting altitude sickness. Check out a few of my favorite local restaurants for some ideas.

Be aware of possible wildlife sightings. Bears frequent the area. Bring with bear spray and wear bells for extra safety.

Check the weather forecast in advance. Prepare for dramatic weather changes, due to the high elevation. Also, prepare for much colder temperatures at this high of an altitude. Dress in layers and prepare for possible snow.

Wear good hiking shoes and workout clothes. I saw many people wearing jeans and boots on this hike! It’s not a good idea. You will get in a fantastic workout going uphill and appropriate fitness clothes will allow you to move more freely, while shoes with traction will help you stabilize yourself when completing the downhill portion of the hike. I also bring with a hiking stick – you can find these in any sports/hiking store around town.

Take your time on this hike. The elevation reaches 10,000+ feet. Those not used to the high elevation could feel sick very quickly without following safety precautions. Slow down and drink lots of water. Also eat salty, high carb snacks – it’s supposed to help.

Also for anyone unable/no desire to hike, I recommend a drive up Snowbowl road or a chairlift ride at Snowbowl as a scenic alternative this time of year.

Directions

Drive northeast of Flagstaff on US 89 for 12 miles to FR 420 directly across from the Sunset Crater turnoff. Turn left (west) for about 1/2 mile, turn right (north) on Forest Road 552. Turn right at the Lockett Meadow sign and continue to the trailhead. There is no fee to park. Restrooms are available. Leashed dogs are okay. High clearance vehicles are recommended (although my Prius made it just fine).

Learn more about this trail via the forest service website.