If you’re feeling cooped up on the heels of the weirdest and most isolating year any of us has seen, there’s a cure for that: Get outside! Bring your four-legged friends with you, stretch your legs, soak up some vitamin D, and sweat a little bit on these six scenic hikes in the Flagstaff area.
Fatman’s Loop Trail
Yep, a good part of the fun on this hike is in the name, but you and the puppers will have a lovely walk together on this 2.4-mile loop trail. Accessible for hikers of most ages and skill levels, Fatman’s Loop offers an awesome payoff for a relatively short hike, culminating with impressive views of Flagstaff. You’ll see fascinating lava cliffs on nearby Mount Elden along the way and squeeze through volcanic rock formations that give this trail its memorable name.
Abineau Trail to Bear Jaw Trail
For a longer jaunt that will test your dog’s fitness (the dog is definitely the one who needs it!), head out to this 8.5-mile loop trail that showcases the beauty of the Northern Arizona forest. Pass through ponderosa pines, aspens, and Douglas firs and take in the views of Coconino National Forest.
Kachina Trail #150
Plan a full day and bring plenty of water to tackle Kachina Trail #150, a moderately challenging 10.2-mile out-and-back that is one of the most beloved hikes in the region. With only about 1,500 feet of elevation gain, it won’t wear you out too quickly, but you’ll want to take your time as you trek through the forested areas that are especially stunning in the fall, when autumnal gold shines all around you.
Elden Lookout Trail #4
Buckle up for a leg-burner when you head to Elden Lookout Trail #4! It’s a tough, steep 5.4-mile out-and-back hike with about 2,400 feet of elevation gain. Elden rewards your effort with exceptional views of Flagstaff and interesting volcanic rock formations to keep you engaged along the way. Maybe plan a few breaks on the way up (you know, for the dog’s sake).
Sandys Canyon Trail
Sneak out for a long lunch or an after-work hike at Sandys Canyon Trail, an accessible but beautiful 3-mile hike that shows off some of the fascinating geological strata that marks the Coconino National Forest. It’s a beautiful nature walk that will leave everyone happy.
Humphreys Peak
Work your way up to the mother of all Flagstaff hikes: Humphreys Peak. Summiting this 10.4-mile out-and-back will put you at the highest point in Arizona, a lofty 12,633 feet. Sweat your way through over 3,000 feet of elevation gain for stunning panoramic views of Coconino County, and on a clear day, look for views of the Grand Canyon to the north. Snap a pic with your dog when you make it to the top – it’s quite an accomplishment for you both!
Looking for more ways to stay active in and around Flagstaff? Keep in touch with us via the Mountain Trail blog.