Hiking Hotspot: Flagstaff’s Incredible Inner Basin Trail

Since moving to the area, Mike and I have been talking with a lot of residents about “the best hikes in the area.” We found out that the most popular tourist hike, Inner Basin, truly is impressive. Lockett Meadow to Inner Basin, is a spectacular 1.7 mile out-and-back journey through towering aspen trees. We have hiked this one in both summer and fall and it never disappoints. It’s a bit of a hassle and the wait can be long to drive up the mountain, but it’s so worth it. If there is any trail to add to your Northern Arizona outdoor adventure bucket list, this is definitely one of the most worthy in my experience.

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.

A cool respite from the summer 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, this trail is hands down one of the best places to be on a hot summer afternoon. The aspens are so green and alive and the temps enjoyably cooler than anywhere else in the region.

And although I’ve seen so many Phoenix and Tucson residents make the 2 hour drive to Flagstaff nearly every summer weekend, as soon as you hit the trail, you are surrounded by beauty. Even if parking is packed, the traffic tends to thin out as you begin to make your way through the forest. This one gets way more crowded during fall foliage peak, so a summer visit is much more low-key and enjoyable. There still may be a wait to drive up the narrow mountain road, but it will not be nearly as long.

Temps at high altitude tend to be at least 15 degrees cooler, so I find in tolerable even during the heat of summer. While summer temps here 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 (this city is located at 7000 feet). Unfortunately many of the trails within city limits (although beautiful) offer little shade. This one starts at 8000+ feet plus the tree coverage is super dense.

There is nothing better than hiking amongst fresh green aspens on a beautiful summer day. If you are escaping the heat and cacti of Phoenix and Tucson, hiking anywhere around here should be a nice change of pace. I can see why so many from southern Arizona flee up here each weekend! The contrast between the white trunks, green leaves, and a blue sunny sky are simply incredibly. I can never stop taking photos on this one. As you can see, there is no one around despite the popularity of the trail.

If you are lucky, you may also see wildflowers in a range of pretty hues like purple. Your best chance of seeing them is in August after the summer monsoon season starts. I’ve seen colorful flowers all around town with this trail being especially colorful.

A hard hike that is worth the effort!

If you are up for a massive leg workout, you will 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.

I think this is a great hike for regular fitness buffs already acclimated to the high elevation. That being said, I don’t recommend this one for first time visitors. High altitude hiking is much harder and this is one hilly trail. Aspen Nature Loop or the 2 mile loop at Buffalo Park both feature great views and are much easier in intensity.

After a rough climb, you can relax on the way down. Take in the mesmerizing tall aspens as you catch your breath and relax and enjoy nature a bit.

If traveling from a low elevation area, give your body a change to get accustomed to the high elevation. Experts recommend doing so before attempting this hike. Many visiting hikers (even those in good shape) end up hospitalized every year due to dehydration and altitude sickness! I’ve read a lot of stories about hikers suffering Acute Mountain Sickness.

So take it easy and enjoy the views! Bring plenty of water and eat a few snacks to replace lost electrolytes. Here’s some tips from the visitor center on how to prevent altitude sickness. Also be aware of rapidly changing weather conditions during summer monsoon season.

Why plan your hike in summer?

The highlight of a summer hike is the lack of crowds as compared to the busy fall season. During the peak of leap peeping season, you may have to wait at least an hour just to drive up the curvy 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. Luckily, for any hiker who decides to embark on the trail, this means a nice secluded nature trek. It’s one of my favorite trails in the area and I highly recommend adding it to your bucket list if you are up for a challenge.

Hiking details

To get to the 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