Flagstaff, AZ Hiking Guide

FLAGSTAFF, AZ

H I K I N G G U I D E

Where to hike, eat, stay, and play in Arizona's destination for all seasons.

W W W . D I S C O V E R F L A G S T A F F . C O M

Located in the mountains of Northern Arizona at 6 ,910 feet in elevation, Flagstaff is a year round wonderland for hikers. Flagstaff offers something for all outdoor lovers in each season with mild summer temperatures in the low 80's, stunning backdrop of gold Quaking Aspens in the Fall, an average of 108" of snow in the winter, and breath taking flowers surrounded

by the world's largest contiguous emerald green ponderosa pine forest in the Spring. Flagstaff offers unlimited miles of hiking trails, including 50 miles of interconnected urban trails within the city.

After a day of hiking, guests can enjoy the local mountain culture in downtown Flagstaff and it’s offerings for drinks, entertainment, food, accommodations, and cool vibes. We've put together the ultimate Discover Flagstaff Hiking Guide to help plan your next trip.

HIKE.

Flagstaff has the highest mountain peak in Arizona, Humphrey's Peak, standing at 12,633 feet, and is the closest city to The Grand Canyon, There are world class hiking, biking, and rock climbing areas throughout the region. It is completely surrounded by the Coconino National Forest, and offers pine-covered terrain as far as the eye can see. The hikes are unlimited, with miles and miles of trails suitable for all hiking levels. We've chosen a few of our favorites below, but the trail options are endless.

Highland's Trail- A nice 3.8 mile loop that is rated moderate. Most of the trail is on top of a mesa with views of the forest below. Tom Moody's Trail at Picture Canyon- A 2.8 mile loop within the Picture Canyon Natural and Cultural Preserve that features a waterfall and a waterbird petroglyph site. Sandy Seep Trail- A three mile out and back trail that features wildflowers and pondarosa pines. Bismark Lake Trail- A short two mile out and back trail (can be made longer by linking with the Arizona Trail) that features a high altitude small lake, shady pine forests, and a view of one of Arizona's highest peaks. Watch for elk! Nate Avery Trail at Buffalo Park- The most popular urban trail in Flagstaff, a 2 mile loop around Buffalo Park, on top of an ancient lava flow. This trail features native grasslands, a wooded area, and terrific views of the local mountains.

EAT.

What's the best thing after a long hike? An awesome meal! Named Arizona's greatest dining town by Arizona Magazine, Flagstaff has many unique dining choices. From burgers to sushi to fine dining, there is something for everyone's taste buds. Flagstaff’s restaurateurs are charging ahead with new and pretty incredible dining experiences- check out our picks below.

Diablo Burger- An Arizona local foods-based burger joint that is proud to support local farmers, ranchers, bakers, cheese-makers, brewers, and vintners to source as much as they possibly can from within a 250-mile radius.

Brix Restaurant and Wine Bar- Committed to sustainability and conservation, Brix serves seasonal, farm focused, contemporary American cuisine, prepared with fresh ingredients sourced from the local farmers and ranchers of Northern Arizona and the Four Corners region.

Black Barts Steakhouse- A truly unique dining experience where the talented waitstaff perform on stage in a Musical Revue, including songs from Broadway, Disney, 60s and 70s, and much more.

Pizzicletta- Craft wood fired pizza, hand made gelato, and fresh ingredients. Vegan options are available.

Tourist Home All Day Cafe- Part restaurant, part bakery, part local hub, Tourist Home provides counter service breakfast and lunch.

DRINK.

Flagstaff's robust nightlife and bar scene is one any hiker can appreciate after a long day of hiking. From handmade cocktails to wine bars to craft beer, visitors will be able to find their favorite libation. Enjoy a craft beer at one of the many craft breweries and participate in the Flagstaff Brewery Trail and end up with a free souvenir pint glass with a completed passport. We recommend visiting:

Mother Road Brewing Co.*- Brewing distinguished beers and building community one pint at a time. Providing radical service and always working on new experimental and seasonal offering.

Annex Cocktail Lounge- Each cocktail is lovingly crafted with home constructed ingredients along with the finest spirits make for a cocktail experience unlike any other experience.

Historic Brewing Company*- Bringing quality craft beer to the community in a bold and intentional way, Historic Brewing Company brings an unparalleled experience to visitors.

Rendezvous Hotel Monte Vista- Serves craft cocktails from a seasonal menu featuring house-made bitters, syrups, juices and liquor infusions, expertly curated by creative staff.

Lumberyard Brewing Co.- Located in the historical Halstead Lumberyard Building, the Lumberyard offers a space for locals and tourists alike to come together for great beer, great food and great times.

STAY.

After a long day of hiking, a tasty meal, and cold libations, Flagstaff has many comfortable accommodations where a tired hiker can get a good night's sleep. Beautiful historic hotels located right downtown, quaint bed & breakfasts with warm hospitality, or well-known brands where members can rack up travel points are are options when visiting Flagstaff. Our list of places to get a good night’s sleep are just a few of the multiple options available.

Little America Hotel- A luxurious AAA approved Four Diamond hotel, located on 500 private acres featuring a ponderosa pine forest with views of the San Francisco Peaks.

Inn at 410 Bed & Breakfast- A luxury Bed and Breakfast and boutique hotel offering romantic rooms and suites with a warm and inviting ambiance, gourmet breakfasts and gracious friendly service to ensure a relaxing and memorable experience.

DoubleTree by Hilton- A familiar place to stay and numerous amenities for guests such as 24 hour front desk, fitness center, hot tub or spa, guests will wake up refreshed and ready for adventure.

Hotel Monte Vista- Built in 1927 and located just off historic Route 66, the Hotel Monte Vista has a rich history. It is more than a registered historic hotel; it's also a lively downtown nightlife establishment; with two busy bars located inside the hotel.

PLAY.

There are so many things to do in Flagstaff besides hiking. Visitors can take advantage of a year-round selection of local entertainment and cultural events including festivals, music, and art. While hiking is always our favorite adventure, we love all the fun things to do below too!

Explore Historic Downtown Flagstaff- There is lots to discover including shopping, local art, live entertainment, unique events and historical, cultural, and local education, all within the downtown area.

Stargazing at Lowell Observatory- An independent, nonprofit research institution founded in 1894 by Boston mathematician Percival Lowell that offers visitors guided tours, exhibits, open deck observatory that includes six advanced telescopes to view more than smudges of light.

Ziplining at Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course- A self guided and challenging course with more than 30 exhilarating and adventurous zip lines that are suspended 15 to 80 feet high in the tall Ponderosa Pines. These zip lines are not for the faint of heart.

Discover Culture at the Museum of Northern Arizona- Celebrate the art, natural history and Native culture of the Colorado Plateau. Permanent exhibits include traditions of fine arts, natural sciences, Native cultures, and ecology.

Dancing at the Museum Club- Converted from a taxidermy museum to a nightclub in 1936, the Museum Club offers drinks, live music, and up-tempo atmosphere.

RELAX.

For a more relaxing experience, Flagstaff offers options that allow visitors to slow down and unwind. Visitors can participate in a gentle yoga class, watch a movie outside in the square, or receive a relaxing massage.

Local Juicery- Serving delightful glowing juice, superfood infused smoothies, and high vibrational foods made from exclusively organic goods and filled with love.

The Yoga Experience- Offering yoga classes taught by highly trained, practiced, dedicated teachers who combine elements from the Anusara, Ashtanga, Iyengar,

Kundalini, Vinyasalow, Yin, and YOGAMAZÉ traditions.

Flagstaff Face and Body- Perfect for those sore muscles after a strenuous hike, Flagstaff Face and Body offers massages, facials, body wraps, foot reflexology, and sole therapy.

Stronghold Coffee Co.- Sit back and relax in a warm and welcoming space, indulge on custom roasted small batch coffee, food prepared from scratch every day, creative signature drinks, and unique “day-cocktails”.

Downtown Movies on the Square- Free family friendly movies, entertainment, and games run each Saturday from Memorial Day in Flagstaff's "living room". Pizza, ice cream, popcorn and drinks are for sale at the concession stand.

Sustainable tourism is key to Flagstaff's community and recently, Discover Flagstaff, joined forces with select mountain towns including Bend, OR; South Lake Tahoe, CA; Bozeman, MT and Steamboat Springs, CO to encourage responsible resource use. Pledge for the Wild supports efforts to keep our wild places, wild. The simple action oftexting a donation to 44321 with the message Wild4Flag directly benefits the Flagstaff Trails Initiative. How it works: Once you’re inspired by an epic Flagstaff hike, beautiful mountain trails, enjoying the breathtaking fields of flowers or a peaceful forest trek, they will be encouraged to text a donation and want others to do the same. Working together, the idea is to keep Flagstaff’s wild places special as a destination for all to experience the outdoors and Pledge for the Wild to sustain Flagstaff’s beauty for generations. Learn more about all Flagstaff has to offer and start planning your trip by visiting Discover Flagstaff.

You can also follow Discover Flagstaff on Facebook Instagram & Twitter.

*Paid partnership with Discover Flagstaff.