FISHER POINT VIA SANDY'S CANYON
If a hike through a forest canyon to a point with good views is for
you, then you will like this hike.
HOW
TO GET THERE
This hike is located near Flagstaff, AZ.
From the Phoenix area, take I-17 North to the point where I-40, I-17,
and HWY89A meet. Take the Lake Mary Road exit and head south. Go 5.6 miles
on this road to the Canyon Vista Campground turn on your left. The parking
area is at the far end of the campground.
RATING
Be Aware of: Multiple trails in this area.
30 yr old Recommendation: I always like canyon hikes. This is a
Moderate hike because of the climbing up to Fisher point.
DETAILS
Elevation change: about 850 ft ascent total to climb out of the canyon
to Fisher point and then again to reach the trailhead.
Distance: 5.8 miles round trip.
Time: It took me three hours with a 20 minute stop at Fisher point for lunch
and another 20 minute stop to the base of 'The Pit' climbing area to watch
the climbers.
Time of year: Spring to Fall
Solitude: I was pleased with the solitude on this hike. We probably
only saw about 6 other hikers, despite the fact that several trails
intersect in this area.
This hike starts on a well marked and signed trail towards 'The Pit',
which is a popular outdoor rock climbing area. Going straight gets you to
the canyon wall, so turn left on the trail and go left along the canyon
wall to a route down.
From this point, the hike trail travels along the bottom of Sandy's
Canyon. This part of the hike is flat and relaxing. Keep your eyes out for
the many deer and Elk that call this area their home. After passing the
trail fork to Marshall Lake (stay left). Further hiking will get to a
point where the canyon opens up to a meadow. To the left is a 3.7 mile
trail to Lone Tree Road in Flagstaff. To the right is a trail through
Walnut Canyon. You should be able to see a cave here as the canyon
momentarily opens up to a meadow. Continue following the trail straight
ahead as it switchbacks up to the point above the cave. Follow the
signs to Fisher point and good views of the San Francisco peaks and the
surrounding area. This is a nice spot for lunch.
After lunch and a break, return the way you came. It's worth a side
trip to 'The Pit' to watch the climbers, just watch for falling rocks and
stay a respectful distance away.
Enjoy!
[The cave at the base of Fisher point]
[View of the San Francisco Peaks from the
top of Fisher point]
return to top...
This hike was completed in April of 2004.
