Plentiful wildlife and great views of the San Francisco Peaks provide the major features of interest on this section of the state-spanning Arizona Trail. For the best views, begin at the Marshall Lake Trailhead. This vital wetland, which is more of a marsh than a lake, is frequented by bald eagles in winter and osprey in summer. Waterfowl and a variety of smaller hawks are generally present year-round.
The bulk of the trail winds across Anderson Mesa, a broad grassy upland dotted with widely spaced trees. The open character of the terrain here provides excellent opportunities to view the area's wildlife residents. Anderson Mesa supports a rich and diverse community of wild animals some of the larger and more visible are elk, mule deer, whitetail deer, wild turkey, Abert's squirrels, coyotes, and pronghorn antelope.
As you near Fisher Point and drop into Walnut Canyon, have your camera ready for some of the most photogenic views of the San Francisco Peaks available anywhere on the Forest. There are even some red rock cliffs here that are reminiscent of Oak Creek and the Grand Canyon.
The Fisher Point area was well within a known home range of a cougar several years ago. There were sightings in the immediate area of FP. I am now out of touch with those who would know the current status of the lions in the region, but it's always cool to think someone could be watching you. =) Beautiful country. Flagstaff and Northern Arizona will always be in my heart.
| ThankDecent singletrack, nothing fantastic though
| ThankBeautiful. The swithbacks will make you aware of your lungs.
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