WILLIAMS — Trees around Williams are hinting of the coming climate change commonly called fall. The heavy rainfall from the monsoons has filled the oaks and aspens and other trees in and around the city with lovely green leaves.
Some leaves with their yellow color which still contain some chlorophyll.
The autumnal equinox begins September 22, but some of the trees can’t wait. During the transition you will still see wild flowers in abundance.
As summer wanes, some outsiders might believe that there is less to do in Williams. They miss the some great hiking a photographic opportunities leading us into the major holiday seasons of Halloween, Thanksgiving and Mountain Village Holiday.
Benham trail—two-miles out of Williams across Perkinsville Road from the turn to Dogtown Road—is a nice hike. The aspens at Buckskinner reservoir are popular with photographers. There is, however, another hiking trail at the day-use area of the park. It meets up with the Williams Trail at the end of Sheridan Avenue. It is a fairly stringent hike, however.
The acorns are sprouting on the oaks.
If you drive about seven-miles east of Williams on Route 66, you will find Oak Hill Snow Play area on the left. Across Route 66 from the Oak Hill Snow Play area is a nice hiking trail which leads to the Keyhole Sink where you will find ancient petroglyphs. The hike is about a mile and is beautiful during the fall.
Even during the cooler fall weather, we recommend taking water. If you plan on hiking with your dog, or cat, take water for them and remember to keep them on a leash. Others may be hiking with their animals. Also carry bags to clean up your dogs leavings.
There are other places to hike and other things to do during the season. To find out more visit the Williams Visitor Center on Railroad Avenue.