We had a delightful visit to Red Mountain Trail. We could see the Red Mountain as we approached on Highway 180. Here is the US Forest Service description.
Red Mountain, located in the Coconino National Forest of northern Arizona, 25 miles northwest of Flagstaff, is a volcanic cinder cone that rises 1,000 feet above the surrounding landscape. It is unusual in having the shape of a "U," and in lacking the symmetrical shape of most cinder cones. In addition, a large natural amphitheater cuts into the cone's northeast flank. Erosional pillars called "hoodoos" decorate the amphitheater, and many dark mineral crystals erode out of its walls. Studies by U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Northern Arizona University scientists suggest that Red Mountain formed in eruptions about 740,000 years ago.
It is a pleasant hiking trail, a little under 1.5 miles each way with only minimal elevation gain.
Patty had her own natural picnic table for our lunch break.
We followed one side wash that got progressively narrow as we went back into the hoodoos.
The one unusual spot on the trail is where they have this stairway/ladder with nine stairs.
This was a most pleasant trail to hike and I am sure we will be back again.
Red Mountain, located in the Coconino National Forest of northern Arizona, 25 miles northwest of Flagstaff, is a volcanic cinder cone that rises 1,000 feet above the surrounding landscape. It is unusual in having the shape of a "U," and in lacking the symmetrical shape of most cinder cones. In addition, a large natural amphitheater cuts into the cone's northeast flank. Erosional pillars called "hoodoos" decorate the amphitheater, and many dark mineral crystals erode out of its walls. Studies by U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Northern Arizona University scientists suggest that Red Mountain formed in eruptions about 740,000 years ago.
It is a pleasant hiking trail, a little under 1.5 miles each way with only minimal elevation gain.
Patty had her own natural picnic table for our lunch break.
We followed one side wash that got progressively narrow as we went back into the hoodoos.
The one unusual spot on the trail is where they have this stairway/ladder with nine stairs.
This was a most pleasant trail to hike and I am sure we will be back again.
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