This northern Arizona city sits at 6,933 feet elevation. It's a gateway to Grand Canyon National Park and other natural wonders, with a thriving tourism sector.
Flagstaff, Arizona, sits at 7,000 feet elevation, surrounded by the world's largest ponderosa pine forest and the San Francisco Peaks. This mountain town is 80 miles from the Grand Canyon. You can hike through canyons, ski down snowy slopes, or gaze at stars through telescopes at Lowell Observatory, where astronomers discovered Pluto in 1930.
Location and Natural Setting
Flagstaff is in north-central Arizona, about 80 miles south of the Grand Canyon. The city is surrounded by the Coconino National Forest, which covers over 1.8 million acres of ponderosa pine forests, alpine tundra, and red rock formations. Flagstaff's high elevation results in a four-season climate, unusual for Arizona. Summers are mild with temperatures in the low 80s, while winters bring an average of 108 inches of snow to downtown.
Outdoor Activities
You can explore over 50 miles of urban trails in the Flagstaff Urban Trails System (FUTS) on foot or by bike. For a more challenging adventure, climb Humphreys Peak, the highest point in Arizona at 12,633 feet, in the nearby San Francisco Peaks. In winter, you can ski or snowboard at Arizona Snowbowl on the western slope of the peaks.
Stargazing and Astronomy
Flagstaff became the world's first International Dark Sky City in 2001, recognizing the city's commitment to preserving its dark night skies. At Lowell Observatory, you can look through telescopes and learn about the discovery of Pluto, which happened here in 1930. The observatory runs daytime tours and nighttime stargazing programs.
Cultural Attractions
Learn about the region's natural and cultural history at the Museum of Northern Arizona. The museum displays artifacts from Native American cultures, including the Hopi, Navajo, and Zuni. To experience Flagstaff's past, visit the Riordan Mansion State Historic Park. This 1904 Arts and Crafts style home represents the lifestyle of a prominent local family from the early 20th century.
Food and Drink Scene
Flagstaff's food scene reflects its college-town atmosphere and outdoor culture. You'll encounter many casual eateries and brewpubs. At Diablo Burger, you can taste locally-sourced beef patties on English muffins. For a more upscale meal, dine at Josephine's Modern American Bistro, set in a historic bungalow. Flagstaff has a thriving craft beer scene. Follow the Flagstaff Brewery Trail and taste local brews at places like Mother Road Brewing Company and Historic Brewing Company.
Getting Around
A car allows you to explore Flagstaff and its surroundings easily, but the city also has public transportation. The Mountain Line bus system runs routes throughout Greater Flagstaff. For an active option, use the Flagstaff Urban Trails System, which connects many parts of the city for pedestrians and cyclists.
Nearby Attractions
Flagstaff is a good starting point for exploring northern Arizona. The Grand Canyon's South Rim is a 90-minute drive away. Closer to town, you can explore several national monuments. At Walnut Canyon National Monument, you'll see ancient cliff dwellings. Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument has a cinder cone from an eruption about 900 years ago. Wupatki National Monument contains the ruins of a large pueblo complex.
