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The Granite Mountain Hotshots Memorial is a memorial site located in Prescott, Arizona, commemorating the nineteen firefighters who perished in the Yarnell Hill Fire in 2013.

Visual Characteristics

The memorial features a central monument constructed from dark granite, inscribed with the names of the fallen firefighters. Surrounding the monument are individual stone markers, each representing a Hotshot. The site is situated on a hillside with native Arizona vegetation, including chaparral and various desert plants. The landscape is characterized by rugged terrain and rock outcroppings.

Location & Access Logistics

The memorial is located approximately 10 miles southwest of Prescott, Arizona, off State Route 89. Access is via a paved road leading to a dedicated parking area. From the parking lot, a short, paved path leads to the memorial site. There are no direct public transport routes to the memorial; private vehicle access is required.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The memorial was established to honor the Granite Mountain Hotshots, an elite wildland firefighting crew from Prescott, Arizona. The Yarnell Hill Fire occurred on June 30, 2013, and resulted in the tragic loss of the entire 19-member crew. The site itself is part of the Yavapai County landscape, characterized by its arid climate and geological formations typical of central Arizona.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can walk the memorial path, observe the inscribed names, and reflect on the sacrifice of the firefighters. The site offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Photography is permitted. No specific activities are organized by the memorial itself.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The memorial includes a designated parking area. Paved pathways provide access to the central monument and individual markers. Restrooms are not available at the immediate memorial site. Cell phone signal is generally available but can be intermittent due to the remote location. No food vendors are present at the memorial.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is generally in the morning or late afternoon when the sun angle provides softer light and longer shadows. The best months for visiting are typically spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) due to milder temperatures. Summer months (June-August) can experience extreme heat.

Facts & Legends

A unique aspect of the memorial is the use of local granite, sourced from the region. Each firefighter's marker includes a small plaque with their name and a symbol representing their role or personal connection. The memorial was designed with input from the families of the fallen Hotshots.

Nearby Landmarks

• Watson Lake Park (5km Northeast)
• Lynx Lake Recreation Area (7km Northeast)
• Sharlot Hall Museum (10km Northeast)
• Downtown Prescott Historic District (10km Northeast)