12 Fabulous Hikes in Flagstaff

Flagstaff is considered by many to be one of the top destinations in the West for outdoor recreation. After relocating to the region and hiking and heavily exploring the city and surrounding natural landscapes, I definitely agree. In Arizona, it is by far the best place for year-round outdoor recreation, spectacular scenery, and adventure. Most notably, this high altitude city is home to the magnificent San Francisco Peaks. This range includes 12637 foot tall Humphrey’s Peak, the highest point in Arizona. The Peaks are actually a dormant volcano range which last erupted sometime around 1064.

There are many gorgeous hiking trails, both on and around the peaks. These spectacular mountains enable you to enjoy a wide range of seasonal recreational activities which you will not find elsewhere in the state. From hiking & mountain biking in the warmer months, to autumn leaf peeping, to skiing & snowshoeing in the in wintertime, there’s something interesting to do no matter the time of year you visit.

Whether you are a Phoenix local seeking a beautiful place to escape the intense heat, or a tourist looking to experience some of the most incredible natural scenery in the country, this area is sure to impress. For those limited on time, I have organized my guide to the best hiking trails. Enjoy the list and your time in one of the country’s prettiest regions!

1. Slate Mountain

In my experience, Slate Mountain is the most underrated hike in the area. Although the trailhead is located about 30 minutes outside of town along Hwy 180, the drive is well worth it for the solitude and breathtaking views of the San Francisco Peaks that you will experience along the way.

The trail is moderately challenging, consisting of a 2.1 mile gradual uphill climb to an overlook, where you will be rewarded, with what is in my opinion, is the most stunning scenery in the entire region. Slate is not the hardest hike in the area, although it is no easy feat either as the hike starts at an elevation of 7300 feet and climbs over 1000 feet to the overlook. That being said, it is a gradual climb with switchbacks and not nearly as hard as some other trails.

Take your time on the way up, snap lots of photos, take a rest when you need it, drink plenty of water, and replenish electrolytes, and you should be just fine. I get in a fabulous lower body workout on this one. The 2 mile climb downhill feels like a breeze compared to the climb up. On the return route, you will enjoy more of a quiet walk through ponderosa pine forest. I’ve never seen a single hiker on this trail – it’s quiet and peaceful all of the time. I have even seen wildlife tracks which is quite rare!

This is probably by number 1 hike for anyone who wants to enjoy great mountain scenery and does not mind a bit of a challenge.

Add. Hiking Details

• Distance: 4.2 miles round-trip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dog friendly: Yes, must be leashed
• Best season: Summer

More info and pictures from the Slate Mountain trail

2. Inner Basin

Inner Basin is the area’s most stunning fall foliage hike. I was truly shocked when I first hiked this one. It’s even more incredible than most of the New England trails I enjoyed while living in Massachusetts which is saying something. Leaf peeping on this trail is not simply good for Arizona, but rather truly spectacular.

The Inner Basin hike takes you through the heart of the San Francisco Peaks for a scenic, fun, and challenging high altitude adventure of a lifetime. As almost every tree is an aspen compared to the predominant ponderosa found along most lower elevations trails around town (the city is located with the country’s largest ponderosa forest), the views are absolutely magical in the fall. As you make your way up the hilly 1.7 mile trail to Waterline Road, you are surrounded by never ending views of tall shimmering golden aspens.

It is a fall experience like no other in the country. As expected, with immense beauty comes a price. The wait for this trail on fall weekends is often over an hour, so a weekday visit is preferred. Don’t worry if you cannot make it out during the week – it is well worth the long wait.

Be prepared for a tough journey, as this trail starts at an elevation of 8500 feet and climbs up to 10,000 feet. Fortunately, you do not have to complete the entire trail to immerse yourself in the beautiful golden colors of the season, although if you feel fit & motivated enough, I definitely recommend experiencing the entire trail!

Add. Hiking Details

• Distance: 3.2 mile round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dog friendly: Yes, must be leashed
• Best season: Fall

More information and pictures from the Inner Basin Trail

3. Aspen Nature Loop

The Aspen Nature Loop is one of 4 trails at Snowbowl, the state’s premier skiing resort. This trail on the Western slope of the Peaks takes you past some truly stunning wide open mountain vistas. You will definitely want to bring you camera along for this beauty! I love that you get to walk through both aspen groves and ponderosa pine forest on this one.

Not only is this trail beautiful, it is also one of the easiest of the highest altitude hikes. The hike comes in at just 1.5 miles with one minor hill near the end, making it one of the best return on your investment hikes in town. For spectacular views and a relatively easy (for the area) nature walk, there really is no better choice. I hike this trail more than any other because it’s so short and beautiful.

This hike is one of my favorite year-round recreation destinations. In the summer, it’s a perfect choice for escaping the heat. Even though temps here are usually in the enjoyable 70-80 range, the relentless sunshine can be brutal. Thus, summer is the perfect time to explore the beautiful high altitude hiking trails when the temps will be at least 15 degrees cooler. In late August, colorful wildflowers begin to sprout up.

In the fall, it is easily my favorite leaf peeping trail. Seeing the trees surrounding the mountains is always an incredible experience. And, I absolutely love snowshoeing/skiing with the snow capped mountains in the background: the scene truly is Narnia-like.

Add. Hiking Details

• Distance: 1.5 mile loop
• Difficulty: Easy
• Dog friendly: Yes, must be leasehed
• Best season: Fall

More information and pictures from the Aspen Nature Loop

4. Red Mountain

Red Mountain is another underrated trail, a bit underused as it is located 30 minutes outside of town along Hwy 180, nearby the Slate Mountain trailhead. Like Slate, it is well worth the inconvenient drive to experience the peace and quiet and unique scenery of this geologic wonder. 

This interesting trail takes you to the inside of a volcano which erupted 740,000 years ago. I enjoyed the unique opportunity to explore the amphitheater of an ancient volcano. Also it was pretty cool to see all the hoodoos. This is what I love most about living out West – seeing all these unique geologic features.

This hike is mostly flat and just 1.5 miles each way, meaning almost any regular walker/gym goer should be fine with the intensity of the trek. The plant life along the walk is quite beautiful, consisting of a diverse variety of plant life including pinyon pine and juniper trees. You will even catch a few nice glimpses of the San Francisco Peaks along the way. The drive to get out here is beautiful and peaceful, and overall the entire experience makes for a nice half day out.

Add. Hiking Details

• Distance: 3 miles round-trip
• Difficulty: Easy
• Dog friendly: Yes, must be leashed
• Best season: Spring

More information and pictures from the Red Mountain Trail

5. Bear Jaw Trail

The Bear Jaw Trail, on the north slope of The Peaks, is one of the area’s hardest, most difficult to get to, and time consuming hikes. However, do not let this stop you from exploring one of the most incredible hikes. This jaw dropping trail is absolutely spectacular in autumn, with glowing yellow aspens mixing in with the green pines to create an enchanting setting.

Fortunately, the rough drive required to get to the trailhead keeps many tourists away. I have a Prius and I don’t know how I made it. Because of the secluded location, there is typically no wait to get in to see the amazing fall foliage. The trail ends at Waterline Road, just like Inner Basin, where gold colors paint the entire landscape.

While this trail is just 2.5 miles, it is very steep and located very high up (8500 – 9500 feet), making the trek feel that much harder. Thus, this hike is more suited for avid hikers due to the long distance, high altitude, and steep incline. For those up for a challenge, you will be rewarded with incredible views and an attractive secluded wilderness setting. For those extra motivated hikers, you can connect with the Abineau trail for a 7 mile loop. Black bears are occasionally sighted, although I have yet to see any wildlife evidence, but who knows what you might come across?!

Advantages of hiking Bear Jaw in the summer include cool temperatures and views of colorful wildflowers. However, fall is ideal due to the attractive 50-60 degree hiking weather and incredible leaf peeping.

Add. Hiking Details

• Distance: 5 miles round-trip
• Difficulty: Hard
• Dog friendly: Yes, must be leashed
• Best season: Summer or fall

More information and pictures from the Bear Jaw Trail

6. The Kachina Trail

The Kachina Trail is another beautiful hiking option at Snowbowl. It’s a bit harder & longer than Aspen Nature Loop, although you do not have to complete the entire 10 miles to enjoy the beauty of this trail. This relaxing hike takes you on a journey through the Southern slope of the San Francisco Peaks through the serene Kachina Peaks Wilderness. It’s a beautiful stroll through a mixed ponderosa pines and aspen forest, although quite long.

As the entire trail would be quite challenging considering the distance, altitude (9800 feet!), and steepness, I recommend completing just the first 2 miles, which just happens to be the most scenic and well marked section of the trail. This part of the trail is also home to the most aspen groves, so you will get to experience magnificent gold scenery in the fall without completely exhausting yourself hiking 10 miles. Surprisingly, this one is often passed over by tourists. I’ve heard some hikers talk about black bear sightings, but again I’ve seen no evidence.

In the summer, the dense forest provides plenty of shade for a cool hike. Spring is a beautiful time too as everything is so fresh. Fall is the best as the view consists of a picture-perfect autumn setting. And winter, is perfect for snowshoeing as the trail is not as difficult as the hillier options. When a storm drops a foot plus of snow, it tends to stick around much longer at this high of an altitude, meaning weeks and weeks of outdoor fun in the snow.

Add. Hiking Details

• Distance: 10 miles round-trip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dog friendly: Yes, must be leashed
• Best season: Fall

More information and pictures from the Kachina Trail

7. Veit Springs Loop

The Veit Springs Loop is one of the shortest, easiest, and most peaceful trails in the city. Like Aspen, this is one of the ones I come back to time and time again. It is not technically part of Snowbowl, however, it is located about 4 miles up Snowbowl Rd. Luckily, most tourists keep on driving all the way up to the top, so it stays pretty desolate most of the year.

It is just a mile and a half or so and almost completely flat, making it the best choice for those not feeling up to shape for a longer/hillier hike. There is a lot of beautiful scenery packed into the short distance, as well as a few unique attractions like an abandoned log cabin and ancient pictographs hidden on a side trail.

This trail is a year-round destination with options for hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, and cross country skiing. There is a nice mix of pines and aspens, so the scenery is picturesque year-round with gorgeous pines that stay green all year and magnificent foliage in the fall.

Winter is my favorite time to visit as you need a backcountry pass to use the trails, so it is completely silent. The snow is basically untouched and it feels like a total winter wonderland as you snowshoe/ski through the dense, isolated snowy forest. I love that this trail barely gets any sunlight due to the thick tree coverage, and at times, I almost feel as if I am back in Massachusetts, especially on overcast days. The snow stays around for quite a bit due to the lack of sunlight, so you can keep snowshoeing and skiing here long after a storm, unlike most of the parks within town.

Add. Hiking Details

• Distance: 1.5 mile loop
• Difficulty: easy
• Dog friendly: Yes, must be leashed
• Best season: Any

More information and pictures from the Veit Springs Trail

8. Bismark Lake

Bismark Lake is a fantastic hike to consider during either the summer or fall season. It tends to stay pretty secluded despite the pretty setting, possibly due to the rough long dirt road (FR 151 Hart Prairie Rd) you need to take to get to the trailhead. The trek is peaceful and offers nice unobstructed mountain views. In autumn, colorful leaves surround you via numerous aspen groves. Wildlife commonly seen includes raptors, deer, and elk, so if you visit early in the morning you may be lucky enough to see some wildlife in action.

This trail is so easy and flat, that I would consider it more of a relaxing nature walk rather than a rough hike. Because it is located in an open meadow, there are some terrific viewpoints of the San Francisco Peaks. As long as you are acclimated to the high elevation, this one is pretty easy. I love the low-key non-touristy vibe; hiking this one I feel like I can truly appreciate the beauty which sets Northern Arizona apart from the rest of the state. The lake is usually dry, however, after a big summer monsoon, you may be lucky enough to see some rare water.

Like all of the hikes on the peaks, the Bismark starts at a high elevation (8500 feet), so take it easier than usual as the high altitude makes even a simple hike that much harder on your body. If you are up for a real adventure, you can connect to the Arizona trail, an 800+ mile trail which runs from Utah to Mexico.

Add. Hiking Details

• Distance: 3 miles round-trip
• Difficulty: Easy
• Dog friendly: Yes, must be leashed
• Best season: Summer

More information and pictures from the Bismark Lake Trail

9. Fat Man’s Loop

Fat Man’s Loop is one of my favorite local hikes. Not only is the hike beautiful and lined with all sorts of interesting plant life, it is also located right in town (just across from the mall), meaning it does not require an all day excursion like some of the more popular trails.

Although the first 1.5 miles is uphill, it is more of a gradual climb. After reaching the scenic overlook, you will be rewarded with a fantastic overlook of the city and mountains. Along the way, you will see why this trail was named as so!

Add. Hiking Details

• Distance: 3 miles round-trip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dog friendly: Yes, must be leashed
• Best season: Spring

10. The Arizona Trail (Aspen Corner)

There are various sections of the 800+ mile Arizona Trail (which stretches from Utah all the way to Mexico) scattered all over town. My favorite section is a truly gorgeous place known as Aspen Corner. This is one of the newer sections of the trail. The trek from Aspen Corner to Bismark Lake is about 4.5 miles, although you do not need to go out this far to take in the amazing scenery and incredible fall foliage.

This hike is gorgeous during the summer months as you make your way through tall groves of aspens and enjoy stunning views of the peaks. But I love hiking here fall even more as the aspens shine bright gold this time of year. Aspen Corner is one of the top fall photography hotspots in the entire state so you will see a lot of tourists here taking family photos. After a quick drive up scenic Snowbowl Rd, you will not have to guess why! Asides from the colorful aspens, there are relaxing views of the open meadows and stunning views of area mountains like Kendrick and Bill Williams.

The parking lot for this trail is located about 6 miles up Snowbowl Rd. I highly recommend a scenic fall drive up Snowbowl Rd, followed by a mile or 2 hike along this fabulous trail. It is one of the most gorgeous leaf peeping destinations you will ever come across. Even if you are not up for a hike, it is worth the drive just for the amazing photography opportunities.

Add. Hiking Details

• Distance: 9 miles round-trip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dog friendly: Yes, must be leashed
• Best season: Fall

More information and pictures from Arizona Snowbowl

11. The Weatherford Trail

The Weatherford Trail begins on a steady climb though beautiful pine and aspen forest on the Southern slope of the San Francisco Peaks. If you continue forward for another 11 miles, you will eventually reach Humphrey’s Peak, the tallest summit in the state.

This trail is actually a longer alternative route to Humphrey’s Peak (from Snowbowl the distance is 8 miles). From Weatherford, the trek is about 10 miles each way with just an extra mile required to get to the peak, so it would be silly not to go all the way if you have already gone this far. What once used to be a road to get up to the San Francisco Peaks was eventually transformed into the scenic trail which exists today.

Only advanced hikers prepared for a full day hike with proper hiking supplies or possibly an overnight camping trip should make the long and very difficult trek to Humphrey’s Peak. Nevertheless, that does not mean you cannot simply complete a few miles to take in the gorgeous scenery. Be prepared for a long and steep journey at high altitude. Many prefer taking the Weatherford to get to Humphrey’s Peak as the trail is not as steep and rocky and offers more spectacular scenery along the way than the shorter Snowbowl route.

Fall is my favorite time to hike the Weatherford. There are lots of gorgeous aspen groves which makes it a very picturesque fall foliage hike. This side of the peaks sees leaves changing earlier than everywhere else, so I like to hike this trail as a kick off to the beautiful season. The trail is pretty quiet with only a hiker every now and then, and thus, it is a relaxing nature experience. Some hikers have reported seeing black bear and wild turkeys!

Add. Hiking Details

• Distance: 22 miles round-trip
• Difficulty: Hard
• Dog friendly: Yes, must be leashed
• Best season: Summer or fall

12. Buffalo Park

Buffalo Park is a large urban park located just minutes from downtown Flagstaff. On any given day, you are bound to see locals out enjoying all sorts of fitness activities, from walking, jogging, and biking during the spring and summer, to sledding, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing during the winter season. This park also happens to be a prime spot to enjoy the fantastic scenery of the San Francisco Peaks and Mt. Elden. This was the first trail I enjoyed after moving here and still one of my favorites for year-round use.

While the loop around the entire park is just 2 miles, you have the option of connecting to longer trails within the Coconino National Forest for a more intense hike. Also, there are a handful of fun and challenging fitness stations to test your balance, strength, and agility.

Due to the picturesque mountain scenery and flat terrain, Buffalo Park is the best choice for easy hiking and biking, as well as winter snowshoeing and cross country skiing. I have snowshoed here a few times following blizzards and it was always a blast – plus the scenery is so serene with the snow capping the mountains. No matter the season, new visitors cannot leave Flagstaff without checking out this wonderful city park!

Add. Hiking Details

• Distance: 2 mile loop
• Difficulty: Easy
• Dog friendly: Yes, must be leashed
• Best season: Any

More information and pictures from Buffalo Park

Best time to hike

Flagstaff is a 4 season playground. Summer is the best time imo to plan any hike. While Phoenix sees temps soar into the 100’s on an almost daily basis in the summer, the temps here rarely stray out of the 80’s, with barely a day over 90. This is one of the highest located cities in the US at 7000 feet, meaning the city sees a 4 season climate unlike the hot dry Southern portion of the state.

The sun can be quite strong at high altitude even with the cooler temps. When it’s too much to bear, I enjoy more of the high altitude hikes (where there are more trees and temps are about 15-20 degrees so).

The runner up would be the gorgeous fall season especially if you love leaf peeping. Some trails like Inner Basin are more crowded this time of year, but it’s worth it to see the rare colors and enjoy the massive drop in temps (esp if you are coming from Phoenix).

Finally, winter sports are fun too especially if you have your own equipment and can time your adventure just right. Snowbowl is known to be“the coolest place in Arizona.” And unlike Phoenix, there is plenty of snow during the winter months for all sorts of recreation. In fact, it is one of the snowiest cities in the country with over 100 inches per year on average! I had a blast snowshoeing on all the gorgeous mountain trails. This is a great time of the year to hit the trails as the tourists will be over at the ski resort. Rentals available at any local outfitter – check out Babbitt’s downtown. Note that chains are often required to drive up Snowbowl Rd.