15 Best Hikes in Flagstaff for all levels
Flagstaff is one of the most popular places for outdoor enthusiasts in Arizona because it has both mountain and desert areas. It’s an amazing place for hiking, mountain biking, rafting, and more, so no wonder everyone loves it and plus it’s the one of the best places to hike for all levels.
We’ve been to Flagstaff twice so far, and we will go back every time we can when visiting the Southwest US. We love the nature of the Coconino National Forest which surrounds Flagstaff and we also found our favorite cute restaurant spot, so if you’re in the area, check out FatOlives.
To help plan your hiking adventure and to make sure that you’re not missing anything, we put together our 15 best hikes in Flagstaff for all levels.
Table of Content
What to know before hiking in Flagstaff?
15 Best Hikes in Flagstaff
Best time to visit Flagstaff for hiking
Where to stay in Flagstaff?
What should you bring on hikes in Flagstaff?
Day tours from Flagstaff
The Wrap-Up: 16 Unbelievable Saguaro National Park hikes
What to know before hiking in Flagstaff?
Elevation
This might surprise you but Flagstaff is at a pretty high elevation, at 7000 feet, which is higher than most places in Colorado. At this altitude, you’ll find yourself breathing heavier or remaining out of breath while you hike. So please take your time and choose the hikes that are right for you. It’s also really helpful to arrive a couple of days earlier than when you plan to start a strenuous hike to get acclimated to the altitude.
Also, because it’s still in the desert you want to make sure that you bring enough water with you because your body will need more than you’re probably used to.
15 Best Hikes in Flagstaff
1. Fatmans Loop Trail
- Distance: 2.4 miles (3.9 kilometers)
- Elevation gain: 560 feet (171 meters)
- Type of trail: Loop
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Pets: Dogs are allowed on the trail, but must be kept on a leash
This is one of the best hikes in Flagstaff and one of the most popular trails for locals, joggers, dog walkers, and tourists, so be prepared for a crowded trail. A majority of the trail is within tree cover with a portion above the treeline. The trail has great views of Flagstaff and Mount Elden. Fatmans Loop is a great trail for all levels of hikers.
2. Humphreys Peak Trail
- Distance: 10.7 miles (17.2 kilometers)
- Elevation gain: 3,400 feet (1035 meters)
- Type of trail: Out and Back
- Difficulty: Hard
- Pets: Dogs are allowed on the trail, but must be kept on a leash
Summiting Humphreys Peak is not an easy task, but it is definitely rewarding. Humphreys Peak sits at 12,633 feet (3850 meters) above sea level and is also the Arizona high point. The mountain is a part of the San Francisco peaks.
Interestingly, the peaks are actually considered Alpine Tundra which is a far cry from the deserts that dominate most of the state. One of the coolest parts of summiting Humphreys Peak is that on certain days, you are able to see parts of Sedona and even the Grand Canyon!
The hike begins relatively moderately, however, it quickly increases in difficulty and is fairly steep. Despite the very uphill heavy trip out to the summit, the return trip is luckily almost all downhill.
3. Elden Lookout Trail
- Distance: 6.3 miles (10.1 kilometers)
- Elevation gain: 2,312 feet (705 meters)
- Type of trail: Out and Back
- Difficulty: Hard
- Pets: Dogs are allowed on the trail, but must be kept on a leash
While not as difficult as summiting the towering Humphreys Peak, the hike up Mount Elden is still difficult. The trail will lead to views of the town near the peak which is why it’s considered one of the best hikes in Flagstaff. Additionally, the trail is home to gorgeous aspen trees which are stunning during the fall.
As with Humphreys Peak, the hike up Mount Elden should only be attempted by more experienced hikers and will be very difficult for beginners. Make sure to start early and bring lots of water especially in the warmer summer months.
4. Lockett Meadow Inner Basin Loop
- Distance: 3.4 miles (5.5 kilometers)
- Elevation gain: 840 feet (256 meters)
- Type of trail: Loop
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Pets: Dogs are allowed on the trail, but must be kept on a leash
Lockett Meadow Inner Basin Loop trail is also one of the best hikes in Flagstaff and extremely popular during fall due to the beautiful foliage, and due to this, it can be very difficult to find parking. The Forest Service will regulate the parking and hiking capacity during the peak season.
It is recommended to visit during a weekday morning in peak season to get a parking spot and be allowed to hike. During very popular weekends, you will be waiting for a very long time in a line of cars, especially if you don’t arrive extremely early.
The trail has gorgeous views of two lakes, aspen trees, and fall foliage during the fall season. The hike is great for hikers of all levels and is a must-see for a visit to Flagstaff.
5. Lava River Cave Trail
- Distance: 0.75 miles (1.21 kilometers)
- Type of trail: Out and Back
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Pets: Dogs are allowed on the trail, but must be kept on a leash. (This is only for the surface portion as pets should not be brought into the cave)
The Lava River cave Trail offers a different type of adventure from the more mountainous and alpine hikes of Flagstaff. The trail takes you through caves formed by an eruption 700,000 years ago. Lava from the eruption formed the caves and this can be seen by the structure and rocks of the caves.
The hike itself is not difficult, but the cave descent is a bit challenging hence our rating of moderate for difficulty. The cave can be crowded fairly easily so make sure to arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy the cave all to yourself!
Make sure to be very careful when descending and walking in the cave as some portions of the ceiling are a bit low. Also, make sure to bring a headlight for each member of your group as the cave is extremely dark. Even in the sweltering heat of Arizona summer, the cave reaches a chilling 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4.5 degrees Celsius), so make sure to bring something warm to wear in the cave.
6. Fisher Point
- Distance: 7.9 miles (12.7 kilometers)
- Elevation gain: 840 feet (258 meters)
- Type of trail: Out and Back
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Pets: Dogs are allowed on the trail, but must be kept on a leash
While this is one of the longer trails on our list of best hikes in Flagstaff, we rate it as moderate because of its much more gradual ascent to Fisher Point with less elevation gain as opposed to trails such as Humphreys Peak. This is a great hike to see beautiful views of the San Francisco Peaks without attempting a much more strenuous hike. We recommend this hike for hikers of all levels although it may be difficult for beginners.
7. Kendrick Peak Trail
- Distance: 9.3 miles (15.0 kilometers)
- Elevation gain: 2,690 feet (820 meters)
- Type of trail: Out and Back
- Difficulty: Hard
- Pets: Dogs are allowed on the trail, but must be kept on a leash
The hike to summit Kendrick Peak is one of the most difficult trails on our list and in Flagstaff. Journeying to Kendrick Point will likely be an all-day event, and we recommend booking out an entire day and being well-rested in order to summit the peak.
We recommend only hiking to Kendrick Peak if you are an experienced hiker as it may be too strenuous for beginners. The trail involves many stunning views of the San Francisco Peaks throughout the hikes.
We recommend bringing lots of water to stay hydrated. Make sure to bring sun covering clothes, as well for protection especially above the tree line. Please bring hiking poles especially for the descent from the summit as it can be fairly steep.
8. Raspberry Spring via Inner Basin Trail
- Distance: 5.2 miles (8.4 kilometers)
- Elevation gain:1,180 feet (360 meters)
- Type of trail: Out and Back
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Pets: Dogs are allowed on the trail, but must be kept on a leash
Similar to the Inner Basin Loop, the Raspberry Spring via Inner Basin Trail is very popular in fall and it will be very crowded during periods of fall foliage. The trail to Raspberry Springs follows a very similar route to the Inner Basin Route, but rather than keeping left to the loop, you will continue straight on the trail towards Raspberry Spring.
The trail is absolutely gorgeous in the fall and we highly recommend hiking it during this time. However, please try to get to the trail early and go during the week as it can get extremely crowded.
9. Red Mountain Trail
- Distance: 2.7 miles (4.3 kilometers)
- Elevation gain: 300 feet (91 meters)
- Type of trail: Out and Back
- Difficulty: Easy
- Pets: Dogs are allowed on the trail, but must be kept on a leash
While the hike might seem a bit dull at first, it quickly becomes one of the most unique and memorable in Flagstaff! The Red Mountain Trail leads to a naturally occurring amphitheater that is filled with hoodoos (a pillar of rock). There is so much to explore in the amphitheater and we highly recommend checking it out. This hike is very easy and we recommend it for hikers of all levels.
10. Abineau Trail to Bear Jaw Trail
- Distance: 8.5 miles (13.7 kilometers)
- Elevation gain: 1880 feet (573 meters)
- Type of trail: Loop
- Difficulty: Hard
- Pets: Dogs are allowed on the trail, but must be kept on a leash
The Abineau and Bear jaw combined loop is definitely one of the more difficult trails on our list, but it is absolutely worth hiking! The trail is ideally hiked in fall for the aspen foliage and cooler temperatures. While you can hike it in the summer we do recommend getting an early start to try to beat the heat.
The trail is less popular than others in Flagstaff so for those hikers looking for a more isolated route, this is the trail for you. The trail is also known for encounters with Black Bears so if you are looking to see one this is the trail for you, if not then maybe you should avoid this route.
11. Buffalo Park Trail
- Distance: 2.2 miles (3.5 kilometers)
- Elevation gain: 100 feet (30 meters)
- Type of trail: Loop
- Difficulty: Easy
- Pets: Dogs are allowed on the trail, but must be kept on a leash
If you are looking for a short easy and relaxing hike/walk in nature while on your trip then Buffalo Park Trail is one of the best hikes in Flagstaff for you. With little incline or difficult terrain, it is perfect for those wishing to simply relax. Even though it is an easier hike, it is still filled with gorgeous fauna.
12. Mars Hill Trail
- Distance: 3.5 miles (5.6 kilometers)
- Elevation gain: 450 feet (137 meters)
- Type of trail: Out and Back
- Difficulty: Easy
- Pets: Dogs are allowed on the trail, but must be kept on a leash
The Mars Hill Trail is another easier and more relaxing trail perfect for beginners and families. This trail is less popular than the Buffalo Park Trail, so we recommend hiking the Mars Hill Trail if you are looking for more seclusion.
13. Wupatki Pueblo Trail (Wupatki National Monument)
- Distance: 0.7 miles (1.1 kilometers)
- Elevation gain: 80 feet (24 meters)
- Type of trail: Out and Back
- Difficulty: Easy
- Pets: Dogs are allowed on the trail, but must be kept on a leash
The Wupatki Pueblo Trail is located in Wupatki National Monument which requires a fee to enter. The entrance fee is $25 for non-commercial vehicles, $20 for motorcycles, and $15 for pedestrians or bicyclists. If you plan to visit 3-4 or more national monuments, parks, etc. on your trip then we recommend purchasing the America the Beautiful Pass which is $80 for one year. The pass allows unlimited entry into all national parks, monuments, and recreation areas
The hike is very short and easy and involves seeing the Pueblo ruins in Wupatki National Monument. It is one of the best hikes in Flagstaff for you if you are interested in archaeological history, and Native American dwellings.
14. Weatherford Trail
- Distance: 15.3 miles (24.6 kilometers)
- Elevation gain: 3,190 feet (972 meters)
- Type of trail: Out and Back
- Difficulty: Hard
- Pets: Dogs are allowed on the trail, but must be kept on a leash
The Weatherford Trail is one of the longest and most difficult trails on our list. The trail involves traversing Weatherford Canyon toward the San Francisco Peaks. Once you finish hiking the Canyon, you will reach the Doyle Saddle. At this point, you will be greeted with views of Humphreys Peak, the Inner Basin, and the forests of Flagstaff.
The hike will take you up above the tree line and into the tundra region. Eventually, you will reach Humphreys Saddle Point which is the point to turn around and complete the Weatherford Trail. We recommend only hiking this trail if you are an experienced hiker. Try to get an early start as this trail will probably take you an entire day to complete.
15. Weatherford Trail to Humphreys Peak
- Distance: 22.3 miles (35.9 kilometers)
- Elevation gain: 5,240 feet (1597 meters)
- Type of trail: Out and Back
- Difficulty: Hard
- Pets: Dogs are allowed on the trail, but must be kept on a leash
The Weatherford Trail to Humphreys Peak is by far the longest, most challenging, but most rewarding trail on our list. This more than 22-mile trail will continue on past Humphreys Saddle on the Weatherford Trail to Humphreys Peak. Hiking on The Weatherford Trail to Humphreys Peak is the perfect way to really experience almost all that the Flagstaff wilderness has to offer.
Please do NOT attempt this hike if you are inexperienced, as it is extremely challenging. This trail will take a very long time to complete, so please get started early to make sure you aren’t on the trail in the dark.
Bonus Trail: Edge of the World Drive
- Distance: 53.4 miles (85.9 kilometers)
- Elevation gain: 3,310 feet (1008.9 meters)
- Type of trail: Out and Back
- Difficulty: Easy
While this isn’t a hiking trail, the Edge of the World Drive is definitely worth exploring. The drive will take you past amazing vows of the Coconino National Forest, Flagstaff, and the San Francisco Peaks. If you have a vehicle you can take off-road and don’t mind getting a bit dusty, then taking a drive on this trail is a must.
Best time to visit Flagstaff Arizona for hiking
The best time to visit Flagstaff, Arizona for hiking is spring or fall.
In spring the temperatures are a little bit low but nature comes to life and it looks very very pretty. The forests are teeming with life in spring, and it is truly a perfect time to visit Flagstaff to connect with the outdoors.
In fall the temperatures are PERFECT! And the colors are gorgeous. Flagstaff is an incredible destination for fall foliage, even rivaling the foliage in Colorado and the Northeast US.
Although we went in the summer, we DO NOT recommend it. It’s full of tourists and the temperatures are very high which makes it very hard for hiking. It is definitely doable to hike in the summer compared with other locations in the state, but as with most hiking in summer in Arizona, it is not ideal.
Where to stay in Flagstaff?
Camping:
There are so many options for camping in Flagstaff. You can camp for free in Coconino National Forest or you can choose one of the paid options. The best ones are Flagstaff KOA, Bonito Campground, and Fort Tuthill County Park. There are also plenty of RV parks near Flagstaff if you come with an RV.
If you are looking for a hotel stay, there are plenty of options in Flagstaff:
Low-budget:
- Hotel Elev8 Flagstaff I-40 Exit 198 Butler Ave
- Econo Lodge Flagstaff Route 66
- Super 8 by Wyndham Flagstaff
Mid-budget:
- Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham East Flagstaff
- Hampton Inn & Suites Flagstaff
- La Quinta by Wyndham Flagstaff
High-budget:
- Little America Hotel Flagstaff
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott Flagstaff
- Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort
What should you bring on hikes in Flagstaff?
Here is what we find to be essential to pack for a day of hiking in Flagstaff.
Reusable water bottle: Water is so essential especially if you go hiking in Flagstaff where you’ll be in the sun a lot. We always use our reusable Nalgene bottles because we are easily able to track how much water we are drinking and 50% of the bottle is made from plastic waste.
Hiking boots: We both swear by our Salomon hiking boots and they are an excellent choice for all terrains. They are very durable, good for holding your ankles. We took them everywhere and they performed perfectly! Click here to see Laura’s boots and here for Nick’s. If you aren’t a big fan of hiking boots, then we recommend using a pair of trail runners instead.
Hiking poles: They are essential when going down into steel inclines or over rocky terrain. We use them all the time to protect our knees and help throughout the trail. We recommend these ones as they are collapsible and they also come with other accessories.
Sun hat: It is very important to protect you head and your skin from sun while hiking in Flagstaff. Nick really likes this sun hat because of how breathable it is.
Sunscreen: It’s an absolute must and we swear by the ones that Le Roche Posay have. We usually use the 60 spf one but they have other options for more or less spf.
Clothing: It really makes a difference if you wear light-colored clothes, especially in summer. Another tip that we have is to wear lightweight and breathable long pants and long sleeve clothes to protect you from the sun. There are so many brands out there that make sun-protect clothes from really light materials.
Flashlight or headlamp: We like to have one in each daypack just in case we stay on a hike longer than we expected. We got the ones from GearLight and we like them.
Snacks: Always make sure to have enough snacks and then some more in case you get lost or a trail takes longer than you expect.
Day tours from Flagstaff
Whether you like to travel in a group or solo, joining a tour or a hiking tour from Flagstaff could be a really nice experience. You’ll get a guide that’s going to show and explain all the locals secrets and history and you’ll get the chance to make new friends with the same passions as you. Book your tour now!
The Wrap-Up: 15 Best Hikes in Flagstaff, Arizona
Did you already pick one of the 15 best hikes in Flagstaff? If not, go ahead and pick your favorite one! There is a perfect trail for everyone in Flagstaff no matter your hiking level!
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