Continental Loop

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very Easy
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
0.5-1h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
3.2 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
28 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

The Continental Loop is a scenic, quick hike in the Walnut Canyon area near Flagstaff. This hike is easy enough for all ages and skill levels and dogs are welcome on leash. Enjoy a meadow, some ponds, pine trees, and bluejays. If you manage to do this hike when the wildflowers are blooming, it’ll be even better. Expect moderate traffic.

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Route Description for Continental Loop

The Continental Loop is a chilled-out, picturesque little hike in the Walnut Canyon area near Flagstaff. This hike won’t take more than an hour or so to do, so it makes for a nice warm-up or cooldown for your day. Expect meadows (filled with wildflowers in the early summer), pine trees, ponds, and lots of different birds. This hike only gets moderately busy.

Remember to keep your dogs on leash in this area. While this route is very easy, you should consider microspikes if you’re hiking in the wintertime as the path can get icy and snowy.

From the trailhead, take Forest Service Road 790 straight to a 4-way junction. Take a left here onto Continental Loop. Where the loop splits, stay right to stroll along the meadow and the trees. There’s no real elevation gain, so it’s a laid-back hike. The route turns towards the ponds and then drops down to pass them before the end of the loop. At the end of the loop, retrace your steps to the trailhead.

Getting to the Continental Loop Trailhead

The trailhead for the Continental Loop is off E Old Walnut Canyon Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    March-November

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Loop

Continental Loop Elevation Graph

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