Flagstaff

Located along historic Route 66 and the tracks of the Santa Fe Railroad, Flagstaff’s historic charms define its character today. Flagstaff is also a gateway to the Grand Canyon and unlimited outdoor adventures throughout Northern Arizona. Another feather in Flagstaff’s cap — it was the first dark sky community on the planet designated by DarkSky International. The city’s 7,000-foot elevation and Lowell Observatory put it on the international celestial map.

Hike, Bike and Ski

Flagstaff offers fresh-air fun year-round among dense stands of pine and aspen trees in Coconino National Forest. Downhill skiers find some of the best slopes in the Southwest at Arizona Snowbowl north of town. At Arizona Nordic Village, cross-country skiers and snowshoers explore the forest and stay overnight in cabins and yurts with wood-burning stoves. When the snow melts, both outdoor recreation areas transform their ski trails into high-elevation hiking challenges and thrilling downhill mountain bike routes. Flagstaff’s urban trail system sees steady streams of locals getting their daily workouts on more than 50 miles of trails, while visitors come from around the world to access the Arizona National Scenic Trail. Flagstaff is the largest gateway community along the 800-mile trail that reaches Arizona’s borders with Mexico and Utah.

Destination Downtown

The Santa Fe Railroad still chugs through downtown Flagstaff, parallel to a stretch of preserved neon signs and motor lodges along Route 66. The action today centers around Heritage Square, where visitors can enjoy live music and summer movies with laidback locals. Downtown Flagstaff’s dining scene includes multiple James Beard award-winners and nominees, and its craft beer and coffee joints are right at home in the college town. Within walking distance to downtown (although walkers may have to wait for a train to pass), Northern Arizona University fits right in with Flagstaff’s progressive vibe. Visitors are invited to attend performing arts and sports events at campus venues.

Cultural Crossroads

Just outside of town, Walnut Canyon National Monument preserves a staggering collection of ancient cliff dwellings and Wupatki National Monument presents the region’s largest free-standing ancestral pueblo structure. Visit the Museum of Northern Arizona to learn about the region’s original Sinagua residents and the pathways of their descendants, including the Navajo, Hopi and Zuni tribal communities. For a closer look at Flagstaff’s pioneer and logging history, Riordan Mansion State Historic Park is a perfectly preserved time capsule.

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