Bill Williams Fire Lookout

4.2/5 (6 reviews)
Williams, Arizona (Coconino County)
Last Updated: 07/07/2021

Trail Information

Highlights

Bill Williams Mountain marks the traditional boundary of the lands once inhabited by the early ancestors of the Hopi people. The mountain is currently home to several radio towers but offers several scenic vantage points along the route to the summit. The trail begins in lush ponderosa pine and oak thickets, offering numerous points to stop in the shade to enjoy the scenery.

Trail Difficulty and Assessment

Trail Navigation

Trail Reviews

4.3/5 (6 reviews)
Open
Rated 4/5
Visited: 05/03/2022
Difficulty Accuracy: Spot On

Very pleasant drive, a few easy switchbacks here and there. Plenty of room to pass other vehicles. Camped at #5 and it was a nice site. Hard to see the views because the brush was so heavy towards the edge but there are some trails around that allow you to access them. Super windy all day and all night, be prepared.
15500
Open
Rated 4/5
Visited: 11/04/2021
Difficulty Accuracy: Spot On

This is the type of trail that needs an additional qualifier ... it's a 1-1 for difficulty, but it's a 10-10 for scenic vistas. The forest is closed on the north side of the trail, but the trail itself is open. We talked to a couple of radio repair guys at the top. They mentioned that a new gate has been added at the last turn before the top ... too many vehicles were parking at the top and interfering with workers. Luckily we were the only vehicle at the top and they had no problems with us driving all the way. The top is about 2500 feet above Williams, so the views across the country side seem to go on forever.
Official Crew
66600
Open
Visited: 07/07/2021

Arizona National Forests and State Lands are back open for travel. There are still some very important fire restrictions in place. These restrictions can often change by specific areas.
Official Crew
66600
Temporary Closure
Rated 5/5
Visited: 06/23/2021

Coconino Forest is currently closed. All access to the forest system has been closed due to extreme fire danger. Forest Closure
1400
Open
Visited: 05/27/2020

Trail was in good condition and it looks like the lower part of the trail has seen some recent logging activity. Several large burn piles throughout the area. The tower was taped off with a sign that it was closed due to Covid-19. The views were beautiful and you could see for miles. Only saw 3 other vehicles coming up as we were leaving.

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