Fatality Site Memorial for the 19 Hotshots

The official name of the site is the Granite Mountain Hotshots Memorial State Park. It was established to honor the nineteen members of the Granite Mountain Hotshots who died fighting the Yarnell Hill Fire on June 30, 2013.

The memorial features a challenging 7-mile roundtrip hiking experience. It consists of two main segments: the Hotshots Trail, which is a 2.85-mile ascent of 1,200 feet to an observation deck, and the Journey Trail, a shorter, steeper three-quarter-mile path leading from the observation deck down to the fatality site itself. The return journey follows the same path back to the trailhead.

The trail is considered strenuous due to its length, significant elevation gain, and numerous granite stairsteps and switchbacks. While older, experienced children might manage, it may be too challenging for younger children or those not accustomed to difficult hikes. There is also very little shade, making it particularly tough in warmer weather.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the trails at Granite Mountain Hotshots Memorial State Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please ensure your dog is well-behaved and capable of handling the strenuous terrain and potential heat, and always carry enough water for both yourself and your pet.

Parking is available at the trailhead, which is located off Arizona State Route 89, approximately two miles south of Yarnell. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends or during peak seasons, as the parking area can fill up quickly due to the popularity of the memorial.

Basic facilities such as restrooms may be available at the trailhead. However, there are very limited amenities along the trail itself. Hikers should come prepared with ample water, snacks, and sun protection, as there is little shade on the path. There are no cafes or shops directly at the memorial site.

As you ascend the Hotshots Trail, you will find 19 memorial plaques, each dedicated to a fallen Hotshot, featuring their photo and a short biography. These are arranged by seniority. At the top, there's an observation deck offering sweeping views, and a tribute wall where visitors can leave mementos. The sacred fatality site itself is marked by 19 gabion baskets forming a circle around the precise locations where each firefighter perished.

No, the memorial trail is not wheelchair accessible. The hike is described as strenuous, involving a significant elevation gain of 1,200 feet, over 200 granite stairsteps, and switchbacks, making it unsuitable for wheelchairs or strollers.

The memorial is a popular and deeply significant site, attracting many visitors. It can become quite crowded on weekends, especially during the cooler months of fall, winter, and spring. To experience a more contemplative visit and secure parking, arriving early in the morning is highly recommended.

The memorial is located near Yarnell, Arizona. While Yarnell is a small community, you may find limited local dining options. For a wider selection of accommodations and restaurants, you would likely need to look towards larger nearby towns such as Prescott, which is about an hour's drive away.

The Yarnell Hill Fire, which started on June 28, 2013, was a devastating wildland fire ignited by dry lightning. It tragically claimed the lives of 19 members of the Granite Mountain Hotshots on June 30, 2013, when unpredictable winds caused the fire to suddenly change direction, trapping them. This event marked the single greatest loss of U.S. wildland firefighters since 1933 and led to the creation of this memorial state park.