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Granite Mountain Hotshots Memorial State Park

Yesterday, we hiked the 7 mi. roundtrip trail at Granite Mountain Hotshots Memorial State Park in Yarnell, Arizona. Memorial plaques, one for each of the 19 Hotshots who gave their lives protecting the community in the Yarnell Hill Fire in 2013, are set in granite along the trail every 600 feet. 


The trail ascends to an observation deck and tribute wall. From here, you can descend to the canyon floor where 19 stone-filled gabions encircle the memorial site. The trail recounts the path that the Hotshots took that day. As the State Park website says, the trail helps you to "better understand the experience of these men as well as to appreciate the beauty of the town of Yarnell and the surrounding areas."

This trail is moderate to difficult with a 1,200 foot elevation gain. The first 2/3 of the trail is uphill. It flattens out a bit at a saddle, where you'll find the observation deck. The ascent back up from the canyon floor is challenging as you embark on the return 3.5 mi. hike (we hike pretty regularly and were very fatigued at the end). As the park website says, leave before noon to give yourself plenty of time. Only 12 parking spots are available at the trailhead.

The trail is very well maintained and the switchbacks offer fairly low grades. The trail is also comprised of many granite steps. The views are expansive, similar to a low flying airplane.

This is a challenging hike that is very well worth doing. Individuals of all ages and experience levels were on the trail.

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