I hope you have been getting outdoors to enjoy our fabulous, fall weather. I truly love this time of year. When we head up north now, it isn’t to cool off but to enjoy the mountains and see the changing of the leaves. With all the wind we have had, though, I think the season might be just about over, but it is always worth peeking.
We decided to go back to Bismarck Lake up in Flagstaff. So many times in my blog, I say I want to go back, but we are always trying something new. Every once in a while, we do revisit a special place. Today was the day!
We headed north on I-17 early in the morning to get a head of the traffic. It was still pretty busy, but we kept moving along. I settled in for a nap and let dad drive to 180 North there in Flagstaff. We then connected to NF 151 and went 7.2 miles until FR 627 and turned right. This takes you right to Bismarck Lake.
Note: NF and FR roads are dirt and are quite bumpy, but any vehicle can ride them. If you happen to find yourself in some pretty rock terrain, you missed FR 627 and need to turn back. There will be a brown sign for Bismarck Lake for you to follow to the parking lot.
Parking is free and dogs are welcome on leash. Bismarck Lake sits at the
base of the San Francisco Peaks, and the trail is very easy. We like it because it is usually very quiet and scenic.
I will warn you: Bismarck Lake is more of a concept than an actual lake. Should it rain buckets, you might see the makings of a lake. However, most of the time it is either completely dry or a tiny steer pond that provides water to wildlife in the area. Yet, it is a defined area with incredible views.
We don’t go for the lake but the serenity. Truly it is peaceful here. The trail goes about a mile to the open meadow. The entire hike is beautiful, but at the meadow, we have our picnic. We spend time here just listening to nature.
The wind tends to blow a lot here being at the base of the mountains, and it can get chilly at 8,500 feet. Wear layers! You may leave Phoenix where it is comfortable, but the temperatures can be 15 degrees cooler up there.
If you wanted to hike a bit more, you can continue past the lake for a half-mile turnaround that brings you back to the lake. We did that last time but found it just brings you into the trees. We rather soak up the views!
Dad made mom some hot tea as we relaxed. Eventually, the winds started blowing in a storm, and that was our cue to pack it up. I’ve said it before: always keep your eye on the sky! Back to the car and on our way home we went.
We did see some fall color, and mom just noticed a post from mid-October saying there still were fall colors up in high elevations. Get out there before it’s too late! This is a superb way to spend the time. I am glad we went back. To human and canine friends alike, have a safe and Happy Halloween!
My mom, Lorraine Bossé-Smith, is kind enough to help me share my Great Adventures, big and small. My mom is a motivational speaker, corporate trainer, executive recruiter, business consultant, coach, fitness expert, and author of nine published books. More importantly, she’s the best doggy mom ever!
Enjoy my blog at https://www.lorrainebosse-smith.com/category/kuma/kumas-great-adventures/
and be sure to follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kumathedog/ and Instagram: kumaitothedog
Get outside! You never know what you’ll discover, and our paths just might cross. Happy tails!
Leave a Reply