The Inner Basin

99 THINGS TO DO in Northern Arizona

Flagstaff and the Peaks

When it comes to northern Arizona, Flagsta is the largest city in this part of the state, and has grown to become one of the most celebrated towns in the West. It continually makes “Best of” lists—Best Small Town, Best Outdoor Town, Best College Town—and has made a name for itself. While many campsites are open to the public, keep in mind that Coconino County is under Stage II fi re restrictions, meaning campfi res, smoking in parks and the use of charcoal grills is currently prohibited.

1. Start in Downtown Flagsta

The center of the largest city in northern Arizona is a hub for exploration and adventure—and relaxing when you’re done. While this magazine gathers the best ideas for exploration and adventure, a trip downtown can be a great place to start. The Flagsta Visitor Center, located in the train station at 1 E. Route 66, can be a way to get oriented to all the goings-on and possible trails, attractions and best bets given the weather and happenings. Learn more at www.fl agsta arizona.org. And to learn more about community events, visit the Downtown Business Alliance Website at www.fl agdba.com.

2. Hike to the Top of Humphreys

Humphreys Peak stands as the highest point in Arizona at 12,663 feet. While any avid hiker will fi nd the hike a fun and refreshing alpine climb at nine miles round trip, it can bring elements of adventure. Please note that the nearly ten miles of alpine hiking at elevation make it a challenge for people of many skill levels. Learn more at www.fs.fed. us/r3/coconino or by calling (928) 526- 0866. The trailhead is located at the top of Snowbowl Road.

3. Arizona Snowbowl

For an easier way to get to the top of the San Francisco Peaks than the big climb up the Humphreys Trail, visit the Arizona Snowbowl ski area. During the summer, they open the ski lift for sky rides to the top of the mountain. The 15- to 20-minute ride to the top is followed by breath-taking views that extend to the north and the edges of the Grand Canyon on a clear day. www. snowbowl.ski.

4. Flagsta Community Labyrinth

A somewhat hidden wonder of Flagsta ’s Urban Trail System (see item 21 in this list for more), the Flagsta Community Labyrinth, also called Toe of the Flow Labyrinth, is located a short length north from the Sinclair Wash Trailhead on Lone Tree Road. Around 15 tons of lichen-covered andesitic basalt, gathered from