Bring lots o' water: Snow
will dot the peaks well into
summer, but running water is
sucked up by the needs of
Flagstaff far below.
Bring eats: a picnic lunch to
share with a hiking buddy is
pretty cool and relaxing.
Watch your head: Fast-
moving and dangerous storms
in summer can KILL.
This ain't Everest, but:
If you're not used to higher
altitudes, keep close tabs on
your condition. Grogginess
nausea and other ailments
associated with high
altitudes suck and can get
you hurt. Be prepared and
rest as much as needed.

Starting Point: Lockett Meadow
25 kilometers north of Flagstaff

      This hike starts out in the aspen-ringed Locket Meadow campground and gradually ascends the northeast side of San Francisco Mountain. With the exception of an unmarked detour, Forest Road 146 acts as the trail.

      Signs to the trailhead point hikers to the far west side of the campground.

      A wide rocky dirt path leads gradually up through the towering aspens common in this part of the state.

      About .5 mile from the trailhead, a side trail though thick greenery branches from the main pathway.

      Following that trail to the left, the sure-footed will scale a steep embankment through an open meadow-like hillside.

      Reaching the top of the trail, views of nearby Humphrey's Peak crowd the horizon.

      Slipping through a wooden gate, the path spills out onto Forest Road 146.

      The road ultimately rejoins the original path at a fork that extends west and north. To reach the lush meadow in the upper reaches of SF Mountain, take the north trail.

      The road winds gradually through aspens and pines for about 5 or so miles - all up. Soon enough, the rigorous hike pays off as valley and peak views stream through dense forest.

      FR 146 suddenly shoots out of the forest, spewing into the open air of the east side of the mountain. Glorious views of checker board acres below greet the tired, thirsty and hungry.