9 Places to See Fall Color in Arizona
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I learned after just one fall season living in Flagstaff that it is easily one of the top leaf peeping destinations in the country. One usually thinks of Arizona as solely a hot desert destination without the slightest evidence of fall. On the contrary, Northern Arizona is home to a number of high altitude areas which see plenty of golden aspens and brisk temperatures this time of year.
While temperatures in Southern Arizona cities are still climbing into the high 80’s and even 90’s this time of year, Northern Arizona mountain towns like Flagstaff (elevation 7000 ft) see pretty chilly daytime highs in the lower 60’s and even colder nighttime lows in the 30’s. The temps are so cold at night that you could end up seeing some early snow! I really enjoyed hiking all the beautiful trails in town and seeing all the beautiful golden aspens. It’s truly a beautiful place and the recreation is out of this world.
Flagstaff, in particular, offers the most traditional 4 season climate with a colorful fall season, mild summers, and cold, snowy winters. The majority of the higher altitude trails in town are just loaded with bright yellow aspens as soon as the leaves begin to change. Around town, you will also find a nice medley of colors due to the variety of deciduous trees that have been planted.
Whether you are a Phoenix resident trying to escape the heat, a new Arizona transplant craving that traditional Midwestern/East coast fall ambiance, or simply a tourist seeking a great fall getaway destination, any of these hikes in my guide should give you exactly what you are looking for. Here are a few beauties to get you started.
1. The Inner Basin Trail
If you really want to experience a rare-for-Arizona fall ambiance, head over to Lockett Meadow Campground: the starting point for the fantastic aspen-lined Inner Basin trail. It’s the best leaf peeping destination in the region. I’ve hiked a lot of great trails this time of year, but the scenery on this one really blew me away. It’s super crowded the first 2 weeks in October for good reason.
Inner Basin is not simply “good for Arizona,” but one of the better leaf peeping trails you will ever come across. Be aware – this hike is no easy feat with an elevation ranging from 8000-10,000+ feet and a very steep incline required to complete the entire trail. However, you can go out to your comfort level – the colors begin to appear as soon as you start hiking the trail. The entire trail is about 3.4 miles. If you are up for (and able to) hike the entire trail, definitely go for it! Experts recommend getting use to the high elevation for a few days before starting on a rigorous hike.
As soon as you embark on this gorgeous hike and begin to immerse yourself in the colors of the season, you will not want to stop! If you are a Sonoran desert resident missing that feeling of fall in the air this time of year, you will definitely want to plan a visit to Flagstaff to hike Inner Basin. At this high of an elevation, the temps will be extra cool, so be sure to dress in layers. Chilly temps, fall foliage surrounding you in every direction, and a peaceful, relaxing trek into nature – you will not find a better fall vibe anywhere in the state.
2. The West Fork Trail
The West Fork Trail is a gorgeous & very popular leaf peeping destination in the Coconino National Forest. In fact, it is really difficult to find a parking spot because so many people want to hike this trail. When I first moved here, I wondered why so many people were lined up to get into this trail each weekend. It quickly became one of my favorite hies. This leafy trail, reminiscent more of the type of trail you would find somewhere like New England, is located in Oak Creek Canyon, a gorgeous 14 mile gorge between Flagstaff and Sedona. The canyon is home to a wide variety of deciduous trees, and thus, you get to see more of the East Coast medley of fall foliage rather than solely aspen trees. Oranges, reds, yellows – you will get to crunch on leaves of every color.
Although this 7 mile adventure featuring 13 creek crossings is a fantastic shady option during the summer season, nothing beats an autumn hike. For starters, the temperatures in this area are so much more bearable this time of year. Second, the trail is the most diverse & colorful of any you will find in this area. For me, the traditional fall vibe with scattered leaves amongst the ground, beautiful creek scenery, and a diverse variety of colorful trees everywhere you look make this one worthy of the wait and high entrance fee ($15 compared to $5 on most hikes).
3. The Aspen Nature Loop
In Flagstaff, you will find 3 great hiking trails at Snowbowl, the state’s best skiing destination. When it isn’t snowing, it’s time to hit the trails! And fall is the best time to do so, as all the trails are sparkling with the golden colors of the season. Out of all the hikes I frequented in the regions, the Aspen Nature Loop & Kachina were those I came back to the most for year-round use. You can’t beat the leaf peeping on these 2 trails and they don’t get nearly as crowded as Inner Basin.
One of the best options for all skill levels is the short, yet super scenic Aspen Nature Loop, a 1.5 mile adventure which takes you past both ponderosa and aspen groves. This trail just sparkles with golden fall leaves this time of year.
Aside from the gorgeous foliage, there are nice mountain views to take in as well. I love the way the beautiful colors frame the mountains. Truly a beautiful hike anytime of the year. For a tranquil nature experience with picture-perfect fall views, plan for a relaxing stroll around the Aspen Nature Loop.
4. Snowbowl Drive
If you are not a hiker, you are still in luck as there are numerous scenic drives to enjoy some leaf peeping fromt the comfort of your car. One of the most picturesque and relaxing options is the 7 mile drive up Snowbowl Road. As you begin your journey, the ponderosa trees will eventually begin to switch over to beautiful colorful aspens. Awaiting you at the end of your drive will be gorgeous views of the mountains, surrounded by the gorgeous hues of autumn.
So pick up a seasonal Pumpkin Spice Latte (Starbucks has a great one and so do many local coffeehouses), put on your coziest fall sweater, get your camera, and get ready for some amazing foliage, in Arizona out of all places! I recommend any non hiker visiting from Phoenix or Tucson to check out this guide as a workout free alternative.
5. Downtown Flagstaff
For those of you limited on time, you may want to simply enjoy the colors around town. The foliage in the lower altitude areas around the city begin changing much earlier, typically starting as early as the second week of September. I’ve even seen a few bright red trees in August. You will find more of a diverse variety of hues with aspens as well as beautiful red and orange maple leaves that you won’t find along the the higher elevated trails.
Some of the top leaf peeping areas include: Main St, Wheeler Park, community parks, and any of the side streets and residential areas. Many restaurants downtown offer garden patios where you can enjoy a meal while surrounded by the colors of the season. A few of my favorites include: Charly’s at the Weatherford and Beaver Street Brewery.
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