Weather & Restrictions
Weather on the San Francisco Peaks
The San Francisco Peaks are subject to a wide range of climate
conditions. Precipitation ranges from 20 inches in the lower area
of the mountain to over 40 inches on the upper slopes. Temperatures
fluctuate greatly from night to day. Travelers must be prepared
for inclement weather conditions. Rainproof outer garments and waterproof
shelters should be included with equipment. Pacific cold fronts,
with accompanying rain or snow, can move in very quickly. May and
June are drier periods, while July and August are usually periods
of violent thunderstorms. Precautions should be taken to avoid being
caught on exposed peaks and ridge tops during such storms. Plan
ahead; watch approaching storms and get to a safe area before the
storms hit. A forested area away from ridge tops, ledges or rock
outcroppings and the tallest trees are the safest places to be.
Restrictions
Several factors make it necessary to implement some restrictions
— the fragile habitat of the Peaks, a threatened plant species,
the Kachina Peaks Wilderness designation, and the municipal watershed
for the City of Flagstaff in the Inner Basin.
- Camping is not allowed above timberline at 11,000 feet or within
the Inner Basin. This is to help protect the fragile tundra and
the City of Flagstaff’s municipal water supply.
- Campfires are also prohibited in the same
areas. Fires are allowed below 11,000 ft. Keep them small and
use only wood which will burn completely to ash. Fires should
be built on mineral soil. Take care to clear burnable material
from the fire area. If you pack it in, please pack it out. Do
not burn garbage, foil, cans, plastic or nylon of any kind.
- Artifacts and ruins are a major portion of
the history and heritage of the San Francisco Peaks. All items
of this nature are protected by law against damage or removal.
We request that you only look, admire and photograph these items.
Endangered species are located above timberline; therefore, hiking
is restricted to designated trails only.
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