Hiking the Incredibly Scenic Fat Man’s Loop in Flagstaff, Arizona
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Since moving to Flagstaff, I’ve enjoyed most of the trails in and around town. I hike nearly every weekend; it’s hard to travel anywhere else when the scenery here is so out-of-this-world. There are miles upon miles of gorgeous hiking trails to choose amongst, some more popular with tourists. One hidden gem I like which doesn’t receive much foot traffic and is super easy to get to is called the Fatman’s Loop.
This is one of the first trails I hiked after my relocation. While it is not my top pick in town, it’s relatively short, moderate in intensity, and located right across from the mall. While it is surrounded by commercialization, once I hit the trail the mountain views and nature takes over completely. This is a really scenic hike which offers. alot of bang-for-your-buck considering the short distance.
This hike is a moderate 2.5 mile loop trail which travels along the Eastern slope of Mt. Elden, a lava dome with an elevation of 9301 feet. The trail is mostly flat with a few steep sections in the first half. It’s enough of a workout to challenge regular hikers like myself, yet easy enough for beginning hikers.
The plant life is so diverse
The plant life along the trail is very unique and consists of a contrasting mix of upper elevation trees like fir and ponderosa pine and lower elevation desert plants such as yucca, alligator juniper, and cliff rose. You aren’t likely to see any major wildlife here, however, a mule deer or grey fox sighting is common.
It’s a very scenic green trail, with some shade along the way. The diversity in plant life between those found in the high vs. low elevation definitely keeps things interesting.
From cacti and Juniper trees
To beautiful ponderosa pine trees. Flagstaff is located within the largest ponderosa pine forest in the country. The Coconino National Forest is a wonderfully diverse place that I have taken full advantage of exploring while living within it.
The main overlook is pretty impressive. Not bad considering only moderate effort is involved. Let’s say that there are a lot harder hikes which don’t offer any mountain views. After you reach the summit, it is pretty much all downhill from there.
Be careful walking downhill as it can be a bit slippery. A hiking stick comes in handy to keep your balance. In my opinion, walking downhill is much harder than going up hill. Although it isn’t as much of a workout, I found that it can be much more challenging to prevent yourself from sliding down.
How the trail got its’ name
Along the way, you will find many cool looking rock formations, especially the very narrow squeeze pictured below. This rock explains the trail’s name!
What I really like about this trail are all the cool rock formations. This sets it apart from most others I’ve hiked thus far. While the pines trees and aspens (at higher elevations) are so beautiful, it’s nice to explore something a bit different.
Great mountain and city overlooks!
Several scenic overlooks along the way provide dramatic overlooks of the surrounding mountains. I was really surprised by the views considering it’s location so close to a mall.
And great views of the city too!
Why it should be on your list
Surprisingly, this trail does not see as much tourist traffic even though it is located so close to the downtown. Mike and I love the secluded nature of this one and the big open views. The scenery is great going up and down and there is much interesting plant life to explore up close.
On one negative note, it can get pretty hot during the summer months due to the strong sunlights and lack of leafy trees. On many occasions, we were trudging through 90 degree temps with brutal direct sunlight in our face. It’s not the best summer option in my opinion. I prefer the cool high altitude Snowbowl trails this time of year.
The Elden Lookout Trail
If you are physically fit enough and have the extra time, you can continue on another 2 miles or so up the steep 2000 feet climb along the Elden Lookout trail. At 6 miles total (including the 2.5 miles on Fat Man’s Loop) and consisting of a long steep climb, it is considered to be one of the more challenging trails in town.
However, the views are incredible. Be sure to plan plenty of time, check the weather forecast, bring with lots of water and snacks, and a GPS watch to track your time.
Tips for a great hiking experience
Plan about 1.5-2 hours to complete the entire loop. Although 2 miles seems pretty short, it is much more time consuming when you add in going uphill/downhill and stopping to take many pictures.
Eat breakfast before your hike. At high altitude, you need to eat more to prevent altitude sickness. Check out my favorite breakfast spots in town and indulge in some extra carbs before hiking anywhere
Brings lots of water. One bottle isn’t going to cut it in this dry, warm summer climate. You are also at a higher elevation, so you need to hydrate yourself more. I recommend a camelbak. Electrolyte mixes are good too.
If you are coming from a lower elevation area, give your body time to adjust to the higher altitude before attempting this hike or any others. You will find out that it will take you some time to be able to get up to your normal cardiovascular level, due to the thin air.
Plan your hike for the early morning hours during the summer season. It is easy to get overheated on this trail, especially after making your way up the steep sections. You will definitely get a workout in, and combining intense physical exertion with high heat and high elevation, is not a good idea.
Bring with a hiking stick. If you do not already have one, you can find one in town for about ten bucks at any sporting goods store. It will help you keep your balance while completing the downhill portion of the hike.
Wear a GPS watch. This will help you pace yourself. It always more motivating to know how much longer you have to go.
Be prepared for random weather. At high elevations, the skies can change very quickly! I have got caught in more than one monsoon on various trails in the area.
If completing the Elden Lookout trail, be sure to take proper safety precautions such as packing extra water and snacks, leaving yourself plenty of time, and of course, making sure your body is ready for the strenuous journey.
Have fun & enjoy the gorgeous views!
