This hike takes you up into the clouds. It’s a 10 mile round trip hike from 5,456ft to 9,282ft providing a clear view above the Arizona Skyline.
Mount Wrightson is a well traveled trail. It’s minutes from big city, but provides coverage in high alpine environment. You can hike this year round though weather can get extreme in winter months with snow and ice on the trail.
Click to watch video of trail
I ventured up solo on this hike. Took all my overnight gear as well.
Click to view photos from hike
Haze or not, views at the summit never disappoints. It’s always spectacular at sunset. Nothing like watching the peak’s 9400 ft shadow extend along the jagged valley floor. Looking at the seemingly infinite number of jagged peaks jut off towards the horizon in all directions.
Here is the path I took
The trail starts at Madera Canyon Picnic area. You can get there in any vehicle as the road is paved. Along the road leading up the canyon are a couple bed and breakfast locations. Even a gift shop where you can purchase a water or sandwich to supplement you before or after the hike.
The Mount Wrightson hike is intermediate but forgiving. I’d encourage anybody try it. You can always turn back and there are plenty of places to rest given time. Water is a must, I took 1.5 gallons in my pack. Make sure to go in a group of 3 or more, read the trail head for list of essential equipment, and have a great time!
Living in Arizona has been a real blessing. It’s like god’s playground with rich history, vast public lands, and countless places to explore. I hope you too have the experience to enjoy life in Arizona as I have.