Hikes in Flagstaff
If you’re planning an adventure to the Grand Canyon State, there’s more than cactus and desert to be found. With peaks reaching over 3,840 m nestled right near the city, Flagstaff is closer in scenery and hiking opportunities to Colorado in some ways, but with its own fascinating perks. Volcanic craters, golden aspen forests, wildflowers and cacti, deep canyons and ruins–these trails have more to experience than you might have thought! With so many trailheads right within city limits, you can access the outdoors from your doorstep in Flagstaff, and there are trails here for every age and skill level.
Wherever your adventures in Flagstaff take you, a few things will remain constant: the San Francisco Peaks dominating the sky, the emerald Ponderosa forests stretching in every direction, and the welcoming charm of this down-to-earth city. Whether you’re exploring Flagstaff’s trails on two feet or otherwise, read on to see some of the top trails in and around the city.
15 Must-Do Hikes in Flagstaff
Ready to start exploring? We’re making it easy to get going with 15 of our favorite hikes in Flagstaff. Our list includes short, easy trails, challenging treks, and everything in between. Work your way through as many as you can on the weekends or make the most of your downtime while visiting the city–you’ll want to keep exploring once you get into that pristine mountain air.
Our top hikes in Flagstaff are chosen to show off the highlights of Flagstaff’s landscape, from mountains to volcanic craters and forests. While starting with these 15 hikes is a great way to get acquainted with Flagstaff’s hiking scene, remember that we’ve got plenty more route guides to keep you adventuring.
- Humphrey’s Peak - Humphrey’s Peak is on the list for many in the Arizona hiking scene, and no wonder: this is the tallest peak in the entire state, standing at 3,851 m. There’s no better view of the Kachina Peaks Wilderness and its sea of mountains, and there’s no higher peak in Arizona you could be standing on. The mountain is sometimes called “Arizona’s Little Colorado” since it seems almost out of place in the state.
- Lava River Cave Hike - The Lava River Cave is one of the most unique and fascinating hikes in the state of Arizona. Climbing down under the earth, you’ll walk (and sometimes crouch) through an underground cave system formed by a volcanic blast over 700,000 years ago. Here, the lava flowed through the earth, with the top, sides, and bottom cooling first while the middle continued to flow, creating the river-like system that exists today.
- Buffalo Park Trail - Buffalo Park Trail is one of many parks that serve the outdoorsy people of Flagstaff, but what makes this one so special? We think it’s the park’s location perched atop a mesa that makes it feel just far enough away from the city. With an imposing view of Elden Mountain, it’s a natural oasis that takes only minutes to reach from many neighborhoods in the city.
- Fatman’s Loop Trail - The Fatman's Loop Trail is a very popular hike in Flagstaff thanks to its ease of access and unique views. This loop hugs the eastern slopes of Elden Mountain, Flagstaff’s defining local peak. There are interesting rocks on this hike that give it its name: two sloping rocks that touch at the top, requiring you to shimmy through… But there’s lots of room.
- Lockett Meadow Inner Basin Loop - For hikers and campers spending time in Lockett Meadow, the views just can’t disappoint. This basin is tucked within the San Francisco Peaks of Flagstaff, remnants of stratovolcanoes from many years past. The Inner Basin is on the eastern side of some of the highest mountains in the state (including the highest, Humphreys Peak). The aspen forest on this trail is a real gem in the fall.
- Mars Hill Trail - Mars Hill Trail is a relaxing route in every sense of the word. This hike leads you through a pine forest, and the dappled light and sound of the wind in the trees is enough to help anyone disconnect from the day-to-day. The viewpoints aren’t as huge as other hikes nearby, but the serene nature of the trail is definitely worth adding it to your list.
- Kachina Trail #150 - The Kachina Trail is one of Flagstaff’s most popular hiking trails. It can be used as a standalone adventure or it can be used as a connector between the Humphreys Peak Trail and Weatherford Trail #102. On its own, it’s a beautiful meandering trail that hugs the southwestern flanks of some of Arizona’s tallest mountains, Agassiz Peak and Fremont Peak.
- Old Caves Crater Trail - The Old Caves Crater Trail hints at northern Arizona’s volcanic past. Around 700,000 years ago, a volcanic field in this region experienced multiple eruptions and lava flows that shaped the landscape. The San Francisco Peaks are remnants of this volcanic range, but smaller features, like this crater and its caves, are direct results of volcanic activity many years past.
- Sandys Canyon Trail - The Sandys Canyon Trail is an interesting hike not far outside of Flagstaff in the Coconino National Forest. This hike provides a few lovely photo spots as you make your way down into Walnut Canyon. Appreciate the layers of rock visible in the canyon, which are the same layers you’d observe in the nearby Grand Canyon.
- Elden Lookout Trail - The Elden Lookout Trail is a very popular hike in Flagstaff, thanks to its ease of access and unique views. Starting right within city limits, this hard hike climbs up the eastern side of Elden Mountain, Flagstaff’s defining local peak. Earn great views of the city, mountains, and forests that surround it after a sweaty climb to the top.
- Abineau-Bear Jaw Loop - The Abineau-Bear Jaw Loop is a fabulous hike that climbs up and through two canyons on the northern flanks of Aubineau Peak and Humphreys Peak. This route is beloved for its varied scenery. The star of the show is the Grand Canyon, which is visible from the top of the loop 70 miles away. For this view alone, we recommend trying to hike this route on a sunny, clear day so that you can see as far as possible.
- Aspen Nature Loop - The Aspen Nature Loop is a delightful hike through most seasons, but it’s very well-known as a fall hike when the forests of aspens go gold. Hikers flock to this loop in the fall, and for good reason–it’s beautiful! Speaking of the trees, some of the pine stands and bristlecones you can spot higher up on the Peaks have been living for over a thousand years!
- Walnut Canyon Island Trail - Over 700 years ago, a pueblo community lived within Walnut Canyon. While the community is long gone, their structures still partially stand. Peer into the rooms of their dwellings as you explore this short, interesting historic trail. This is an ideal trail if you want to connect with Native history in Flagstaff.
- Sunset Trail - The Sunset Trail leads you up and across some of the most visible mountains in Flagstaff’s skyline, heading up Little Elden Mountain to the top of T-V Hill, next to Elden Mountain’s summit lookout. This route is used by hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers, and is enjoyed for its lovely views, especially when the fall colors start to paint the mountainsides.
- Tunnel Spring Hike - Some hikes are just made for quiet mornings, and Tunnel Spring is one of them. This is a relaxing route through the forest that leads you to the top of Observatory Mesa. With a calm forest and a route that can be customized with added length, this is a great, relaxing hike.
Scroll down to see the full list of hiking trails in Flagstaff.
When is the Best Time to Hike in Flagstaff
Flagstaff experiences very different weather than what you’d expect from Arizona. Throw your ideas of scorching summers and warm January hikes out the window–we’re playing by different rules here!
Flagstaff has four distinct seasons: a cool spring, a warm summer, a pleasant fall, and a snowy winter. The hiking season normally runs from March through November, but some trails will be accessible year-round and some will become snowed in.
We love hiking in this area between May and mid-October. Spring and summer bring wildflowers and the fall colors in Flagstaff are excellent. Keep in mind that Arizona experiences summer monsoons, which are heavy, brief rainstorms that can bring lightning and flash flooding. Monsoons tend to come in the afternoons, so getting early starts on your hikes is wise.
Other Outdoor Activities in Flagstaff
While the trails are excellent, hiking is certainly not the only way to explore Flagstaff! This region boasts plenty of space for other outdoor activities.
Adventurers on two wheels can take advantage of the many mountain bike trails. Those with four-legged friends can explore horse and dog-friendly trails. Campers can set up their tents in sites near the city, and birders and animal lovers will be spoiled with the fascinating variety of species that call the desert home.
How to Plan a Trip to Flagstaff
Planning a trip to Flagstaff is pleasantly less high-pressure than planning trips to some of Arizona’s other outdoor destinations. You won’t find long lines of cars vying for trailhead parking here, nor will you be strapped for places to stay.
Flagstaff has a good selection of accommodation options, from hotels in each corner of the city to short and long-term vacation rentals. If you’re wanting to prioritize hiking, we suggest staying in the northern or northeastern parts of the city to have easy access to the Dry Lake Hills and Kachina Peaks Wilderness.
Renting a car will make getting around the city as easy as possible, especially since Flagstaff lacks a well-developed transit system. Trailhead parking is normally easy to find, save for the busiest weekends. You may wish to rent a high-clearance vehicle since some of the forest roads that lead to the trailheads are rough.
Some of the parks and recreation areas near Flagstaff charge modest day-use fees, but many of the routes are free to hike. Check in with each area you want to hike in to plan ahead for possible fees.
Arizona Adventure Tours
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Frequently Asked Questions About Flagstaff
What is Flagstaff known for?
Walnut Canyon, the Arizona Snow Bowl, Grand Falls, Sunset Crater… Flagstaff is known for its incredible landscapes. From volcanoes to canyons, it’s an adventurer’s dream. Flagstaff is also known for very low light pollution (stargazing, anyone?), and its Western culture.
Does Flagstaff get snow?
Oh, yes. Flagstaff averages over 100 inches of snow each year.
What is the population of Flagstaff?
As of 2021, the population of Flagstaff was just under 80,000.
Does it get really hot in Flagstaff?
Flagstaff’s summers are warm but not nearly as scorching hot as the rest of the state. Expect average highs in the 80-88°F range.
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Best Hikes in Flagstaff
Dry Lake Hills Hike
The Dry Lake Hills hike is an easy 4.8 km route north of Flagstaff. This hike sees very, very little traffic, yet it’s not a route that suffers from overgrowth, so it’s a nice pick on days when you want to try to get the trail to yourself. This route mostly shows off the forest with some mountain views visible along the way. Dogs are welcome on this route and you can expect very light traffic.
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Fort Valley Trail
The Fort Valley Trail is a moderate route in the Fort Valley area north of Flagstaff, Arizona. There is a huge network of trails in this area, so you could easily spend the whole day adventuring out here. If you’re staying at the campsite near the trailhead, this route is an easy pick. It’s moderately difficult, but know that there is a bit of a prolonged uphill climb that might be tough for very young kids.
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Priest Draw Trail
The Priest Draw Trail is a simple pleasure. The route travels through fields lined by pine trees, with some interesting rock formations and outcroppings to check out along the way. It doesn’t have any huge views, but it’s a pleasant walk in nature. Dogs are allowed on this trail as long as they’re kept on leash, and this is a good trail for families of all ages.
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Schultz Pass Loop
The Schultz Pass Loop is an 19.0 km moderate hike north of Flagstaff in the Coconino National Forest. This hike includes everything you’d want from a northern Arizona hike: mountain views, pine forests, aspen trees, and wildflowers in abundance. Expect light traffic on this route. If you want similar scenery on a shorter, easier trail, try the Upper Schultz Pass Loop.
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Schultz Pass Road Loop
The Schultz Pass Road Loop is a 9.7 km moderately difficult hike north of Flagstaff in the Coconino National Forest. Savor this trail’s great scenery, including mountain views, pine forests, aspen trees, and wildflowers in abundance. There is a huge network of routes in this area should you want to keep going a bit further. Expect moderate traffic on this route.
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Little Elden Trail
The Little Elden Trail is a scenic 20.3 km out and back trail in Flagstaff that can be enjoyed by hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. The first half of the trail is well-marked, lushly forested, and easy to follow. The second half becomes more desert-like and can be harder to follow. Go as far as you like on this route, tracing the base of Little Elden Mountain. Expect light traffic.
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Kelly Canyon Trail
The Kelly Canyon Trail is a scenic 28.2 km hike that leads you down through Kelly Canyon just south of Kachina Village. This is a good choice for both hikers and mountain bikers. There’s lots of shade on this route for hot days, but on the flip side, it’s not the best choice in the winter because of how icy the trail can get. Expect moderate traffic.
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Little Bear to Sunset Loop
The Little Bear to Sunset Loop leads you around a mesa near some of the most visible mountains in Flagstaff’s skyline, including Little Elden Mountain, Elden Mountain, and T-V Hill. This route is used by hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers and is enjoyed for its lovely views, especially when the fall colors start to paint the mountainsides. Expect light traffic on this route.
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Hart Prairie Loop Trail
The Hart Prairie Loop is definitely an underappreciated hike. With views like this, it’s a wonder it sees such light traffic. Give this adventurous hike a go and you’ll find the climbing and distance is worth it for the mountain views and blissfully calm aspen forest. It can be used by hikers and mountain bikers alike. This is a hard 23.5 km hike that you can expect light traffic on.
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Slate Mountain Trail
Slate Mountain Trail is a 6.4 km out and back hike in the Kachina Peaks Wilderness that leads you up Slate Mountain, a lone peak in this gorgeous area north of Flagstaff. The views from the top of Slate Mountain are an excellent reward for the relatively little effort this hike takes. At 6.4 km total, it’s a pretty efficient trip! Expect light traffic on this trail.
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Elden Pueblo Loop
Discover the ruins of a pueblo right at the base of Elden Mountain in Flagstaff on the Elden Pueblo Loop, a short and easy hike that shows off the walls that still stand from years ago. There are educational booklets available that share more about the site’s history, and the hike is easy enough for all ages and skill levels. This site also doesn’t tend to get busy.
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Christmas Tree Trail
The Christmas Tree Trail is a moderate route in Flagstaff that runs along the base of Elden Mountain. It’s very easy to get to from the city and it’s suitable for most skill levels. This hike can be done on its own, or you can use the Christmas Tree Trail to access other routes in the extensive network of trails that lie below Elden Mountain. This route sees moderate traffic
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Mount Elden Loop via Lookout Road
The Mount Elden Loop via Lookout Road is a full-day adventure that shows off the Dry Lake Hills, T V Hill, Little Elden Mountain, and Elden Mountain near Flagstaff. This route is long, but with a fairly gradual increase in elevation through sections of the hike, it remains accessible for intermediate hikers and better. This is also a good pick for mountain bikers. Expect moderate traffic on this route.
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Schultz Creek Trail
The Schultz Creek Trail is one of the main routes in Flagstaff’s Dry Lake Hills, a popular hiking and mountain biking area just outside the bounds of the city. This trail is easy, scenic, and multi-use, so hikers can expect to see mountain bikers and vice versa. This route is best done when the flowers are blooming, which is usually from late spring through mid-summer. Expect moderate traffic.
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Weatherford Trail
The Weatherford Trail is a hard hike in the Kachina Peaks Wilderness that leads you between Fremont Peak, Schultz Peak, and Doyle Peak. The Weatherford Trail is a longer hike, and the terrain gets more demanding as you go. May hikers only do part of this hike, so if you plan to go the entire way, make sure you come prepared with plenty of water, layers, and food. Expect moderate traffic on this route.
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Buffalo Park to Paradise Spring Hike
Buffalo Park might just be one of the prettiest parks in all of Arizona, and Flagstaff residents can take advantage of its wildflower-lined walkways for as long or short of an adventure as they want. This route begins in Buffalo Park and travels off the mesa to Paradise Spring, which is a pleasant spot for a picnic, some bouldering, or just to relax. Expect moderate traffic on this hike.
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Lenox Crater Trail
In the far corner of Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument near Flagstaff is the Lenox Crater, a glimpse at Flagstaff’s extensive volcanic history. The Lenox Crater Trail is a brief, easy hike up and around a small volcanic crater. This hike doesn’t see too many visitors, so it’s a good pick if you want to be able to avoid the crowds. Dogs are not permitted in this area.
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Island Trail and Walnut Canyon Loop
Over 700 years ago, a pueblo community lived within Walnut Canyon. While the community is long gone, their structures still partly stand. Peer into the rooms of their dwellings as you explore this short, interesting historic loop hike. While the trail is rated as moderate, with about 56 m of vertical drop, those not acclimatized to 2,134 m may wish to spend a day or two in Flagstaff before visiting. This route adds a short stretch along the canyon wall to the traditional Island Trail, so it’s a good pick if you want a bit more distance in your explorations of the canyon.
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Walker Lake Trail
Walker Lake Trail is a short, easy hike up to a lake in the middle of a crater in Arizona’s Coconino National Forest. The lake itself is nice, but what’s really special is if you choose to lap the crater rim. The views are wonderful, particularly when the aspens are golden in the fall. This isn’t usually a busy hike, so you won’t have to share the trail too much. Dogs are allowed on leash.
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Soldier and Highlands Loop
Stroll underneath oak trees and pine forests on the Soldier and Highlands Loop, a fairly relaxed hiking and running route north of Flagstaff. This is a good pick for weekend warriors who want to get outside and be active in nature. This is a great hike in the fall when the leaves have gone golden and red. The views aren’t sky-high, but the trail has a great ambiance and it’s usually not too busy. Expect moderate traffic.