Wonderful mountain views along the Bismark Lake trail in Flagstaff

The small city of Flagstaff in Northern Arizona, surrounded by the beautiful Coconino National Forest, is home to miles and miles of gorgeous hiking trails. Although many Phoenix locals come here to escape the heat, I also recommend a trip solely to explore the gorgeous hikes within the Coconino National Forest. A lot of tourists come to the city to enjoy the foodie scene downtown, but I think the main attraction is the gorgeous nature surrounding the city.

There are many beautiful high altitude mountain hikes just outside the city. Fall is the premier time to hike as the leaf peeping is incredible this high up. You will find a mix of beautiful ponderosa pines and aspens at this high of an elevation. Bismark Lake is one of the hidden gems often overpassed by tourists. It’s not my all time favorite fall hike, but it is a great addition to your leaf peeping bucket list.

A relaxing, easy mountain hike

I recommend planning a few days of your trip to enjoy the outdoor scene. Fall is such an amazing time to do so as the temps are near perfect for hiking. The Bismark Lake hike is one of several relatively easy hikes. It is shorter and flatter than most of the hikes within this forest.

Despite the high elevation of 8500 feet (exercising in high altitude areas can be much more difficult due to the air being thinner, and hence, less oxygen present), this trek is only 2 miles long so it should be easy enough for anyone who is in basic shape and has given themselves time to adjust to the high altitude. I do recommend taking a look at some high altitude adjustment tips before setting out on any trail just to be safe.

In comparison, many other trails in the area start out at 4+ miles, some at even higher elevations and many feature steep hills. Drink some extra water, don’t rush through it, and enjoy the gorgeous views. This hike is long enough to give you some peaceful alone time in nature, yet not long enough to take up your whole day. You will get in a great workout, without feeling run down for the rest of the day.

Aspen trees along the Bismark Lake trail in Flagstaff

A secluded hike far away from the tourist crowds

This peaceful trail is great because it doesn’t get as crowded as the more popular Snowbowl area hikes. I think this may be due to the long drive down an unpaved road to get to the actual trailhead. My Prius barely made it so maybe this keeps some people away. Plan plenty of extra time as it took us at least a half hour to travel up the unpaved road. Despite the inconvenience, the beauty of this hike is that it is so far away from everything else!

Aspens lining the Bismark Lake trail in Flagstaff
Wonderful mountain view along the Bismark Lake trail in Flagstaff

Along the 2 mile trek, you will be treated to serene view of meadows, mountains, and pretty pine and aspen trees. During the summer, you will likely see many gorgeous wildflowers. Fall is a great time to take in the beauty of the changing aspens, which shine a brilliant golden yellow in the sun. We didn’t plan your hike right at peak as there are so many different fall color trails we are juggling at the same time. I’d like to come back, but I have a long bucket list of fall activities, so we’ll see.

A hint of fall colors along the Bismark lake trail in Flagstaff

Plenty of wildlife, especially elk, are drawn to the area. Depending on the time of day and season you visit, you may see elk in the distance. Unfortunately, we have seen little wildlife on this trail or any others in the area. Where we do see a lot of wildlife is at Kendrick Watchable Wildlife Park and Fort Tuthill.

A perfect option for first time visitors

Overall, this is one of my top picks in the area for beginning hikers. It’s not overly strenuous, it’s scenic, uncrowded, and far away from the tourist congestion. What more could you ask for in a great hike?

This is a great 3 season hike. During the summer, you will enjoy cooler temps due to the 1500 ft difference in elevation. While in the fall, you will be able to enjoy the rare beautiful fall colors in Arizona. Spring is a great time to start moving after a long cold winter indulging in extra holiday treats.

No matter which season you decide to visit, you will get in a rejuvenating workout and enjoy some beautiful mountain scenery. Just keep the above mentioned high altitude tips in mind, and you should be good to go.

Directions

Address: From Flagstaff take 180 N, turn right on FR 151 (Hart Prairie Rd), turn right again on FR 627 and follow to trailhead. Parking is free.

Learn more about this trail on the US Forest Service website.