Saint Peters Dome Wildlife Habitat Area, AZ

The "Saint Peters Dome Wildlife Habitat Area" is located in the White Mountains within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. The boundaries for the wildlife area are FR118 to the north, FR117A to the east, and FR117 to the west. There is no southern boundary due to FR117 and FR117A intersecting to a point.


Habitat Area Regulations/Information
This area is closed to the use of all motorized vehicles to provide a "quiet area" for wildlife free from vehicle disturbance and protect habitat components of vegetation, soils, and water. The Wildlife Habitat Area program is a cooperative partnership between the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest and the Arizona Game and Fish Department to enhance habitat conditions and effectiveness for wildlife. This area is open to non-motorized activities, including hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, hunting, and fishing.

No maintained trails exist within the habitat area. The hiking opportunities consist of off-trail cross-country loops or utilizing a large number of closed roads within the area. This is a truly beautiful area with an average elevation of 9,000' with peaks going as high as 10,100'. Temperatures in August typically range from 50 at night to 73 during the day. The preferred seasons are summer and fall. Large aspen groves within the area offer beautiful color in September.

The cross-country loop that I chose was approximately 6 miles with elevations ranging from 8,667 to 9,629, with a total climbing feet of 1,425 (see attached map). This may not seem like much of a hike, but when you live in the desert, a hike like this feels more like 10 miles. It is best to plan on a little less distance and total-climbing feet than you normally might do when hiking above 9,000 feet. This was a very diverse loop with lots of opportunities to view wildlife, including bear and elk. The quieter you are, the more you will see. The best way to climb Saint Peters Dome is a ridge on the Northeast slope due to elevation contours that are a little more user-friendly.

The Saint Peters Dome Wildlife Habitat Area offers something for everyone. A short scenic nature walk or an ambitious adventure hike. The route is yours to choose, with the unknown being part of the adventure. Enjoy.

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2008-08-18 ssk44