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Wednesday, June 27, 2012
PHOENIX magazine Summer Hiking Guide 2012
Wildland-Urban Interface hiking
FORT VALLEY TRAIL SYSTEM
Flagstaff
Located in Fort Valley Restoration Project treatment
area, this collection of serpentine trails winds among Ponderosa pines and
Gambel oaks in Flagstaff’s Wildland-Urban Interface. Here, sensitive woodlands
fringed with human living spaces melt into bear-and-cougar territory. Years of fire suppression here (to protect
nearby homes and business) has compromised native species and also created
forests with way too many trees.
In short, this means unhealthy, tinderbox conditions. There’s an informative sign near the trailhead that explains
what’s being done to restore the forest to its historical healthy
conditions. Take notes---there's also info on the sign about how you can help!
A work-in-progress, the trail system is mapped out at the
trailhead kiosk. Trail signage is
somewhat lacking/confusing but does the job if you’re at all familiar with the
area. The maze of paths are very
popular with mountain bikers and they connect with the Arizona Trail, Schultz Creek
Trail and the Dry Lake Hills trails.
Not–too-tough and sprinkled with views of the San Francisco Peaks, this
loopy-knotted hike is a pleasant, shady, though unspectacular day trip.
LENGTH: 6.7 miles of interconnecting trails—with more in the
works.
RATING: easy-moderate
ELEVATION: 7,230’ – 7,870’
DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX:
149 miles
GETTING THERE:
In Flagstaff, go north on US180 (Fort Valley Road) to FR164B
located about 0.1 mile past milepost 220.
Turn right and continue roughly 400 feet and veer right to stay on
FR164B. The trailhead is just a few yards beyond the turn off. Roads are paved/good dirt and passable
by sedan.
INFO: Coconino National Forest, Flagstaff Ranger District,
928-526-0866
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