Ledges Trail offers forest visitors an easy hike to a scenic overlook of Mormon Lake and the volcanic hills surrounding it. The route leads past a group of rustic summer cabins and then begins a gradual climb to the top of a rocky outcrop that gives the trail its name. Along the way, it passes through open stands of ponderosa pines punctuated with a few juniper trees and Gambel oaks. Small trailside meadows provide a chance to observe some of the area's resident elk and mule deer.
The rock ledges at the overlook jut clear of the trees and provide an unobstructed view of the lake and the surrounding mountains and forests. Look closely here, it's a good place to see a hawk or bald eagle gliding on the wind, hunting the brushy flats along the shore.
At a Glance
Usage:
Medium
Best Season:
April thru November
Closest Towns:
Flagstaff, AZ, Mormon Lake, AZ
Operated By:
Flagstaff Ranger District - 928-526-0866
General Information
Directions:
USGS Map: Mormon Lake
Location: About 24 miles (45 minutes) southeast of Flagstaff, just north of Mormon Lake.
Access: Drive south 20 miles from Flagstaff on Forest Highway 3 (Lake Mary Road) to the Forest Road 90 intersection. Turn west on FR 90 and drive 3.5 miles to the Montezuma Lodge turnoff. Drive 0.6 miles to the trailhead. All roads are paved and open year-round.
