Steep climb to a mountain peak to great views.
This trail starts innocently enough up a trail called Fat Man's Loop. There are several trails in the area, but they are flat and skirt the base of the mountains. The junctions are well signed and the trail is easy to follow. Just keep following the signs that lead you at first on Fat Man's Loop, then to Elden lookout trail. The trail you want goes up. At the top of Fat Man's Loop, the lookout trail goes up via a series of switchbacks.
Once you get to the top, break out lunch and enjoy the view. You have great views of Flagstaff, Sunset Crater, and the San Francisco peaks from the top.
Bring some snacks as well as plenty of water. Dress in layers, as the top of the peak is windy and chilly.
Watch the weather closely. If dark clouds begin to form or you hear thunder or see lightning, call it a day and hustle down the mountain. Lightning strikes the peak of Elden on a regular basis and you don't want to be near it when it does.
This is a great Arizona hike. Enjoy!
If you're up for some additional hiking, you could try the Elden-Heart trail loop hike.
