O'Leary Peak Trail

For a vantage point over remnants of Flagstaff’s volcanic past, give the O’Leary Peak Trail a try. This hike takes you atop a peak with a lookout tower that gives you a view of nearby Darton Dome, Robinson Mountain, Robinson Crater, the and Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument. The route itself is moderately difficult, coming in at a nice middle difficulty and distance for most semi-regular hikers.

This route is out in the sun nearly the entire length of the trail, and on a hot day, the climb can be tiring and dehydrating. Please make sure you prepare for your hike with plenty of water and consider sun protection if you’re hiking on a hot day.

From the trailhead, which is near the access road to the O’Leary Group Campground, continue up the forest road. You’ll follow this road the whole way, so the trail remains easy to follow and wide, although it does get rocky in some places. The road turns towards the mountains and climbs up towards the base of the peak, making 7 wide switchbacking turns that get progressively steeper. From the top, you’ll simply retrace your steps to the trailhead.