Basics
- Location:
- Just north of Flagstaff
- Setting:
- Mountainous
- Surface:
- Paved
- Suitable Vehicle:
- Any Vehicle
- Length:
- 15 miles
- Time:
- 1 hour
- Season:
- Drivable year round
Description
Just north of Flagstaff stands the San Francisco Peaks. This dormant volcano rises to the highest point in Arizona-Humphreys Summit achieves an elevation of 12,643 feet. The SnowBowl Road takes you to the base of that mountain and then climbs its western slopes. The route ends at 9,500 feet at the lodge and parking lot of the SnowBowl ski area.
As you ascend this paved road you'll pass through thick forests before you break out into the mountain's high meadows. Watch for elk, mule deer, and wild turkey along the way.
.Scenic overlooks near the top of the drive provide excellent views of the volcano field which created this mountain stretching off to the west. Now covered by rolling prairies and hardy forests, features of obvious volcanic origin such as Wild Bill Hill share the panorama with more massive features such as Kendrick Peak and the Hochderffer Hills.
Details
Location:
Just north of Flagstaff
Setting:
Mountainous
Surface:
Paved
Suitable Vehicle:
Any Vehicle
Length:
15 miles
Time:
1 hour
Main Roads:
US-180 W
Season:
Drivable year round
Additional Details:
Peaks Ranger Station, 5075 N. Highway 89, Flagstaff, Arizona 86004, 928-526-0866
Map + Directions
Basic Directions
Drive 7 miles north of Flagstaff on U.S. 180 and turn east on SnowBowl Road (FR 516). It's 8 miles to the end of the road at the ski area.
