Timeline
15:29
Drive up to the San Francisco Peaks. The Coconino National Forest manages this area, so maps and trail information are available on-site if you want to scout a vantage point. Park and get settled as the afternoon light begins to soften.
16:49
Find your spot facing west. At 16:59 the golden light starts bathing the 12,637-ft Humphreys Peak and the sacred range. This is the perfect moment to take in the view before the sun dips below the horizon toward the WSW.
17:44
Head back down the mountain. The light will have faded, and the peaks will turn a deep blue against the twilight sky.
Local tip
The San Francisco Peaks are held sacred by the Havasupai, Navajo, Hopi, and Zuni tribes. Please respect the land and any posted signs while you are there.
Check before you go
- Check the Coconino National Forest website for current road conditions and any seasonal closures on the peaks.
- Temperatures drop quickly after sunset at this elevation. Bring a jacket.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Flagstaff (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).