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SECRET TRAIL
Coconino National Forest
 |
| the overlook |
No, really, the name of this trail is "Secret Trail". Blazed by mountain bikers and realigned by the forest
service, this old/new trail explores the rolling terrain west of Flagstaff's
Dry Lake Hills area. From the
trailhead sign, head north (left when facing the sign) to the wooden sign
marking the start of the hike. In less than a mile, you'll encounter Orion
Spring---look for a vivid green draw full of ferns. The spring was not running on Sept. 15th,
however, it does trickle after heavy rains and the area stays moist enough to
foster a carpet of wildflowers. The pine-shaded trail is marked by arrows
tacked to trees that help navigate among the many social (unofficial) trails
intersecting the route. You’ll also notice where the forest service has
blockaded some of these paths.
Along the way, the trail dips into shallow draws and passes among
gigantic boulders. At the 3-mile
point, a stony corridor opens up to a beautiful overlook. Here, a rocky ledge falls away to
reveal views of Elden Mountain and a dense forest of aspens just beginning to
show the blush of autumn. Beyond
the overlook, the trail continues another 0.3 mile to a 3-way junction marked
only by generic arrows. Off to the
left, look for an old cabin/hunter blind near a massive rock outcropping. Past here,
the trail meets the Upper Moto Trail which veers south to connect with the
Fort Valley Trail System. We
returned the way we came.
 |
| Aspens starting to turn gold, Sept 15, 2012 |
LENGTH: 6.6
miles (out and back)
RATING: moderate
ELEVATION: 8,070' - 8,275'
GETTING THERE:
From the traffic signal of Route 66 and Humphreys St
Flagstaff, turn left onto Humphreys St and go 0.6 mile to the US 180
junction. Turn left and travel 3
miles north on US180 (Fort Valley Road) to between mileposts 218 and 219 and turn right onto Shultz Pass Road
(FR 420). Follow FR 420 for 0.5
mile to a fork, veer left to stay on FR420 and continue another 5 miles to the
Sunset Trailhead on the right. FR
420 has a few bumpy spots, although high clearance is the best option, we've
gotten through in carefully-driven sedans in dry conditions.
MORE PHOTOS:
