O'Leary Peak

Flagstaff

A moderate run up gated forest services roads and two-track to O'Leary Peak.

Trail Running Moderate

Distance: 16 km
Ascent: 639 m
Descent: 639 m
Duration: 2-3 hrs

Low Point: 2.1 km
High Point: 2.7 km
Gradient: 6˚

Just a short drive north of Flagstaff, O'Leary Peak is one of the local favorite spots to enjoy a scenic trail run. Rather than following technical singletrack and wild wilderness trails as many of the other nearby runs do, this 10-miler meanders along an old roadbed and offers a gradual and consistent climb to the 8,900-foot peak. While there are some potholes and eroded sections, it's a moderately-challenging run and a great option to explore one of the many peaks in the San Francisco volcanic field.

O'Leary Peak & Darton Dome & Bonito Lava Flow Photo: James St. John

Description

Unlike the cinder cone volcanos that make for popular hikes in the area, O'Leary Peak is actually a lava dome volcano, the USFS notes. The hike begins with a walk alongside a stunning lava field, and "it's worth getting off the trail," to check it out, they continue. The upper section of the hike is much more difficult, consisting of 6 switchbacks that you must conquer to reach the summit. That said, the lookout tower at the top offers stunning views of the Painted Desert to the north, and the greater-San Francisco Peaks that dot the Northern Arizona landscape. The Inner Basin can also be seen for the summit and offers a shorter, yet equally scenic, hike from the Lockett Meadow Campground.

This hike begins between the O'Leary Group Campground and Bonito Campground on Forest Service Road 545A. A small pull-off is available for day hikers if you aren't spending the night. Water and restrooms are available at the nearby campgrounds should you need either before your hike.

Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/O%27LearyPeakhttps://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recarea/?recid=55146