The Inner Basin of the San Francisco Peaks are to me, a very sacred place. These peaks form the dominant landmark of Flagstaff, as well as the highest point in Arizona. The lonely mountain range, once ranging higher than any other mountain in the lower 48 states- has a natural history unlike most other places in the country, and has been the subject of study and mystery for hundreds and even thousands of years. This sanctuary amongst the high desert houses some of the most breathtaking life to be found anywhere in the area- most of which can be found in the Inner Basin. A very long time ago the once 4800m tall (16,000 feet) volcano imploded, sending cinders and debris far, far across the landscape in all directions. What was left of this event, was a tall ring-shaped ridge encircling a large basin- hence the name Inner Basin. Within this basin, one can hike and directly observe the transition between several types of forest (which C. Hart Merriam introduced to science on this very mountain range) as you ascend in elevation. Ponderosa pine forest gives way to Douglas-fir, limber pine, and corkbark fir- followed by the aspen belt and mixed spruce-fir below treeline. In a distance easily hiked in a day, one can experience these changes with their own eyes, and be captivated by this magic.

In the fall, this adventure becomes a spectacle, as the Quaking aspens slowly lose their leaves in a whistling trail of fire…