EMOTIONAL JOURNEY Bring a lot of water, sturdy footwear and plenty of tissues, because this long, difficult trail will tug at your emotions. The Granite Mountain Hotshots Memorial State Park pays tribute to the 19 wildland firefighters who perished in the 2013 Yarnell Hill Fire.
Getting There: From Phoenix, take Interstate 17 north to State Route 74 (Carefree Highway). Head 30 miles west toward Wickenburg and turn right (north) on U.S. 60. Continue on U.S. 60 to the traffic circle at the Hassayampa River bridge, veer left and go north on State Route 93 to State Route 89 (White Spar Highway). Follow SR 89 toward Yarnell, go left at the split, head up the winding mountain road and turn left at the sign for the park. Roads are 100 percent paved. There’s limited trailhead parking and a shuttle service is available during peak season. No fees. Length: 7.2 miles round trip Rating: moderate Kid Friendly: NO Pet Friendly: NO Elevation: 4,318-5,061 feet Best Season: November-March Facilities: restrooms
Photo credit Mare Czinar/PHOENIX
