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Weekend Warriors Arizona Hiking Guide
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If a short, easy stroll to the collapsed inside of a volcano appeals to you, this is your hike. This hike is located near Flagstaff, AZ. To the Trailhead start: From the Flagstaff area, take HWY 180 towards the south rim of the Grand Canyon. About 30 miles from Flagstaff (Mile marker 247) is a signed left turn for the Red Mountain trailhead. If you're taking this hike in the winter, the road may be closed. Simply park here and walk 0.3 miles to the start of the trailhead. If the road is open, drive the 0.3 miles on a dirt road to the parking area. Be Aware of: The volcanic rock is a bit crumbly, so climbing is not recommended. 30 yr old Recommendation: Where else do you get to see the inside of a volcano? This is an Easy hike. Elevation change: about 250 ft gain
From trailhead to the inside of Red Mountain Distance: 1.7 miles to the mountain (from HWY-180). Time: 1.5 hours to the inside of the mountain and back Time of year: All year Solitude: Good. On a nice winter day in February, we only saw one other pair of hikers. Map: Click here for map The Flagstaff area has several dormant volcano cones scattered around. If you're interested in seeing what the inside of one looks like, then you will enjoy this easy walk. If you're taking this hike in the summer, you'll start from the parking area. If it's winter, the short approach road may be closed, in which case you'll add 0.3 miles to your hike. Either way, you'll follow an old road towards the easily visible Red Mountain. The trail is easy to follow for it's length. When you reach a rock dam (with a set of stairs) you will have reached the inside of the Volcano. This area looks like a set from a Star Trek movie, with bright red walls, rounded spires, and numerous holes. It's worth spending some time to explore around, but be cautious in climbing, as the rock here is crumbly. When you've had your fill of the bizarre scene, return the way you came.
[View of Red Mountain from the trail]
[Entering the volcanic crater]
[Inner Volcano]
[Inner Volcano part 2]
This hike was taken in February 2009
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