NMVC THURSDAY HIKES: Kachina Trail – Flagstaff

Trailhead Meet Up: July 18, 2025 at 8 am 

Name of Hike: Kachina Trail 

Location: Flagstaff

Leader(s): Debi Quarry

Leader Contact: debiquarry@gmail.com, 602-524 -1433

Carpool? (Y/N) Yes 

Carpool Time & Location: Get in contact with me 48 hours before the hike and I will share your information with others coming.

Hike Distance (estim): 8 miles

Hike Time (estim): 5 hours

Elevation Chg: 2400 ft

Hike Description: This hike is on the west side of the San Francisco Peaks near Arizona SnowBowl and starts at about 9300 ft elevation area.  We hike high on the mountains to avoid the summer heat . The trail crosses several canyons and even descends to a  lava cliff. A dramatic, cave-like recess in the lava marks where a bed of looser volcanic debris eroded away from denser flow layers above.  Ancient limber pine and massive Douglas-fir dominate the higher elevations and of course aspens are present. Waist-high meadows of bracken fern punctuate the slopes. We will do an in and out hike about 6-8 miles total.  The elevation change is approximately 1,250 feet . Bring rain gear as it is monsoon season . 

Drive Instructions: From Flagstaff drive 7 miles on US 180 N and then R at the SnowBowl  FR 156 . Drive approx. 7miles up the mountain and turn right at the sign for Kachina Trail . Lower Parking Lot – new parking lots have been developed since last yr.) Parking for the TH is at the far end . No restrooms at the TH.