Flagstaff is one of the best places in Arizona to experience brilliant fall leaf colors. The cool, crisp, mountain air, sunny skies, forested meadows and aspen groves make fall leaf-peeping a favorite seasonal activity for visitors and locals alike. Because there are limited places in Arizona for people to experience this magical time of the year than many other parts of the country, many of the best places to see fall leaves in Flagstaff can get quite busy. We’re going to provide as many up to date resources here so you can keep track of when then leaves change color so you can make the most out of your fall leaf experience and your day. A rule of thumb is to remember to bring a warm jacket and a camera! Get ready to explore and discover enchanting fall leaves like a local!
Flagstaff typically starts seeing leaves change color at the end of September and throughout October. The peak leaf-peeping time varies depending on elevation, temperature and moisture received throughout the year. You’ll still be able to catch fall leaves in November the more south you travel, such as in Oak Creek Canyon on the way to Sedona from Flagstaff.
Lockett Meadow may be the busiest and most popular place to experience fall leaves changing color, and for good reason. Lockett Meadow is a beautiful aspen grove located at the Inner Basin of the San Francisco Peaks. Cozy campsites, well-maintained roads, and a gradual switchback trail up and through the rustling aspens make this place nothing short of magical. The downside is that during the fall, the road up to Lockett Meadow becomes a bumper to bumper traffic jam and parking becomes nearly impossible to come by. To ensure a more enjoyable experience, make your way up the mountain in the early morning. Park rangers begin monitoring mountain traffic between 8 AM and 4 PM during peak season. Only 100 cars will be able to access the parking lot at a time. So for the weekend warriors, the early bird gets the worm! If you have the ability to visit Lockett Meadow mid-week, you’ll have a much less crowded experience.
Aspen Corner is a beautiful sight you don’t want to pass up! On the way up Snowbowl Rd, you’ll reach an unmistakable stretch on the road that is draped by golden aspens on both sides of the road. Many people like to just find a safe parking spot off the road and start wandering around from there, but there are many beautiful trails off Aspen Corner that are well worth your time. Make sure to park completely off the road, be considerate of through traffic, and watch for cars as you cross. Many people get distracted by all the colorful leaves and forget common courtesy. Keep the peace and embrace your golden state of mind.
Recommended hiking trail from Aspen Corner: Arizona Trail Passage 34
From the Aspen Corner parking area, follow the trail 4 miles to Bismarck Lake for a whirlwind of aspens on a breezy, winding trail. Elevation range is 8,780 to 9,000 feet.
Driving from Flagstaff to Sedona on 89A is arguably one of the most stunning scenic drives in the Southwest. 89A takes you through Oak Creek Canyon, a sandstone and basalt canyon with a seemingly enclosed canopy of brilliant gold, orange, yellow and red leaves lining the road. Beyond the leaves, you’ll find streams flowing over boulders and into colorful pools of cool, clear water. Along 89A are also shaded campsites and a couple of small markets and coffee shops making this one of the most convenient yet rewarding places to experience the colors of fall. Crank up the tunes and enjoy Flagstaff’s favorite fall leaf commute.
This 7.2-mile loop on the north face of the San Francisco Peaks might be your best bet for avoiding the crowds. It is a rigorous hike that takes you up to a scenic saddle through the moss-draped, spruce-fir woodlands of Abineau Canyon and backs down the aspen-cluttered gorge of Bear Jaw Canyon via a 2-mile connecting walk along Waterline Road. Elevation range is 8,530 to 10,320 feet.
Directions: From Flagstaff, go north on U.S. 180 to mile marker 235 and turn right on Forest Road 151 (Hart Prairie Road's north access). Go 1.6 miles on FR 151 and connect to FR 418. Drive 3.1 miles on FR418 to FR 9123J (signed for Abineau-Bear Jaw), turn right and go 0.6 mile to the trailhead. Dirt/cinder roads are rutted but passable by carefully driven sedans.
Get your “pics” off Route 66! The Arboretum is an accessible, convenient way to experience fall leaf-peeping for the whole family. Open 6 days a week and featuring a collection of northern Arizona’s most colorful, high-elevation fall-changing flora, the Arboretum is sure to deliver the fall colors you seek. Have a picnic, take a stroll, enjoy the conveniences and resources of the Arboretum, and experience the relaxing atmosphere of fall in town, just off historic Route 66, four miles south on Woody Mountain Road.
Discounts Available | Family-Friendly | Low-Risk Covid-19 Activity | Pet-Friendly | ADA Accessible | Self Guided
Pet-Friendly | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Fireplace(s) | Whirlpool Tubs | Great View | BBQ or Grill
Concierge Services | Creekside | Fireplace(s) | Free Wi-Fi | Private Patios/Balconies | Romantic | Suites | Whirlpool Tubs | Sedona Lodging | Jacuzzi | Sedona Lodging
Environmentally-Friendly | Family-Friendly | Low-Risk Covid-19 Activity | Pet-Friendly | Fireplace(s) | BBQ or Grill
Laundry/Dry Cleaning Service | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Fireplace(s) | Low-Risk Covid-19 Activity | Pet-Friendly
We are a fun tour experience with discovery on the operation of e-bikes for transportation and recreational purposes and you will learn about mobility-assisted options for your outdoor interests. The views around Flagstaff are amazing as you will enjoy this ride as you tour the trail sy … More
We are a fun tour experience with discovery on the operation of e-bikes for transportation and recreational purposes and you will learn about mobility-assisted options for your outdoor interests. The views around Flagstaff are amazing as you will enjoy this ride as you tour the trail system. Your tour will include views of pines, parks, and pathways while discovering the Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS). This tour is 2.15 hours long and a riding distance of about 10-12miles. If you are looking to explore more on the bike paths then this tour is for you! Minimum (2) riders.
Schedule: Varies, check out the calendar
What you will see on this tour: Flagstaff Urban Trail System, NAU Campus, Route 66, Buffalo Park, Arizona Trail, Parks, San Francisco Peaks, Coconino National Forest
E-BIKE RENTALS Electric Bicycles of Flagstaff, located on 14 East Birch Avenue in Historic Flagstaff offers a variety of rental services for your e-bike interests.
Low-Risk Covid-19 Activity | Professionally Guided | Family-Friendly
From Historic Tours of Flagstaff to wild Amazing Chase Scavenger Hunt and more, Flagstaff Urban Fun has something for everyone to enjoy.
Flagstaff Historic Tour Learn about Flagstaff's history, architecture, local "flavors" and NAU. Lumber, trains, educati … More
Flagstaff Historic Tour Learn about Flagstaff's history, architecture, local "flavors" and NAU. Lumber, trains, education, and even camels have been a part of this rich history. Learn from the locals about Flagstaff and kick-off or end our tour with a local craft beer or coffee.
Experience your own Amazing Chase! Your clues include places, art, angles, and unique photos based on clues and hints both North and South of the RR Tracks. Choose from a self-guided hunt with our clues, or let us plan and manage it for you complete with guides, awards, and more!
Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Downtown | Low-Risk Covid-19 Activity | Self Guided
Experience the wind ripping through your hair on a thrill ride over nature's wildest predators. Enjoy the adventure of a lifetime on a world-class zip line over Out of Africa Wildlife Park in Camp Verde Arizona! We are conveniently located less than 20 miles from Sedona, in the heart of … More
Experience the wind ripping through your hair on a thrill ride over nature's wildest predators. Enjoy the adventure of a lifetime on a world-class zip line over Out of Africa Wildlife Park in Camp Verde Arizona! We are conveniently located less than 20 miles from Sedona, in the heart of Northern Arizona's wine country, just minutes from tasting rooms and vineyards. From the top of the towers, you can see majestic red rocks, the San Francisco peaks, and the whole breathtaking Verde Valley including Cottonwood, Clarkdale and Jerome. Come join us for a Zip Line adventure that you'll never forget! Ride the most exciting zip line ever devised, over Out of Africa and soar over Lions, Tigers, Wolves, Hyenas, Bears, Jaguars and other natural predators!
Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Discounts Available
Family-Friendly | Free Parking | Self Guided | Upgrades available | Pet-Friendly | Discounts Available | Low-Risk Covid-19 Activity
Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course is an elevated obstacle course set in the tall Ponderosa Pines. It is securely suspended between the trees at 15 to 60 feet off the ground. At Flagstaff Extreme, we believe the best family memories are usually ones that take place outdoors, so bring th … More
Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course is an elevated obstacle course set in the tall Ponderosa Pines. It is securely suspended between the trees at 15 to 60 feet off the ground. At Flagstaff Extreme, we believe the best family memories are usually ones that take place outdoors, so bring the entire family! There are 5 adult courses and 1 junior course with obstacles ranging from tarzan ropes, to wobbly bridges, swinging logs, cargo nets, ziplines, and even an aerial surf board!
Come Play in the Trees and explore the outdoors like you never have before!
To see our availability or book a reservation, check out www.flagstaffextreme.com or give us a call at 888-259-0125!
(See our website for age and height restrictions)
Family-Friendly
Family-Friendly | Self Guided | Professionally Guided | Groups/Meetings
Set in Flagstaff, 2.2 mi from Northern Arizona University and 4.3 mi from The North Pole Experience, Pinnacle Pines offers free WiFi and air conditioning. It is located 3.7 mi from Flagstaff Plaza Shopping Center and offers an ATM.
The holiday home features 4 bedrooms, a TV with … More
The holiday home features 4 bedrooms, a TV with cable channels, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, a washing machine, and 4 bathrooms with a shower.
If you would like to discover the area, skiing and cycling are possible in the surroundings.
Family-Friendly | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Fireplace(s)
24-Hour Front Desk | Business Center | Discounts Available | Fireplace(s) | Free Self-Parking | Free Wi-Fi | Multi-Story | Outdoor Pool | Packages Available | Private Patios/Balconies | Suites | Wi-Fi Available | Free Hot Breakfast | Sedona Lodging | COVID-19 Precautions Taken | Pet-Friendly
Modern Flagstaff Home with BBQ, Walk Downtown! in Flagstaff provides accommodations with free WiFi, 2 mi from Northern Arizona University, 5.6 mi from The North Pole Experience and 3.1 mi from Flagstaff Plaza Shopping Center. This holiday home is 2.5 mi from Walkup Skydome and 3.1 mi fr … More
Modern Flagstaff Home with BBQ, Walk Downtown! in Flagstaff provides accommodations with free WiFi, 2 mi from Northern Arizona University, 5.6 mi from The North Pole Experience and 3.1 mi from Flagstaff Plaza Shopping Center. This holiday home is 2.5 mi from Walkup Skydome and 3.1 mi from Flagstaff Medical Center.
The holiday home features 3 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, a washing machine, and 3 bathrooms with a shower.
A children's playground is available on site and skiing can be enjoyed within close proximity of the holiday home.
BBQ or Grill | Private Patios/Balconies | Family-Friendly | Fireplace(s)
Mountain View Lodge is a detached holiday home located in Flagstaff in the Arizona Region and is 9.3 mi from Flagstaff. It provides free private parking. Free WiFi is offered throughout the property.
A dishwasher, an oven and a microwave can be found in the kitchen. Towels and b … More
A dishwasher, an oven and a microwave can be found in the kitchen. Towels and bed linen are provided in this self-catering accommodations. Other facilities at Mountain View Lodge include a hot tub, barbecue and fire pit.
BBQ or Grill | Jacuzzi | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Family-Friendly | Fireplace(s)
Spacious Family Home Surrounded by Mtn Views! is located in Flagstaff, 11 mi from The North Pole Experience and 12 mi from Northern Arizona University, in an area where skiing can be enjoyed. This holiday home features accommodations with a patio and free WiFi.
The holiday home … More
The holiday home has 3 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, a washing machine, and 2 bathrooms with a bath or shower.
BBQ or Grill | Private Patios/Balconies | Family-Friendly | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Fireplace(s)
Located in Flagstaff, 2.4 mi from The North Pole Experience and 4.3 mi from Northern Arizona University, Pristine Flagstaff Cabin with Decks and Mountain Views! offers free bikes and air conditioning. Guests staying at this holiday home have access to a patio.
The holiday home f … More
The holiday home features 6 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, a washing machine, and 3 bathrooms with a shower.
Game Room | BBQ or Grill | Jacuzzi | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Pet-Friendly | Family-Friendly | Fireplace(s)
100% Non-Smoking | 24-Hour Front Desk | Bell Desk | Business Center | Concierge Services | Fireplace(s) | Fitness Center | Free Self-Parking | Interior Hallways | Jacuzzi | Laundry/Dry Cleaning Service | On-Site Restaurant | Outdoor Pool | Private Patios/Balconies | Red Rock Views | Room Service | Suites | Valet Parking | Wi-Fi Available | Sedona Lodging | Mountain Bike Clean/Repair Station | Spa Services | Pet-Friendly
Serene Home Located in Forest, 4Mi to NAU Campus! in Flagstaff provides accommodations with free WiFi, 4.3 mi from Northern Arizona University, 5.6 mi from The North Pole Experience and 4.3 mi from Flagstaff Plaza Shopping Center. The property is 4.3 mi from Lowell Observatory and 5 mi … More
Serene Home Located in Forest, 4Mi to NAU Campus! in Flagstaff provides accommodations with free WiFi, 4.3 mi from Northern Arizona University, 5.6 mi from The North Pole Experience and 4.3 mi from Flagstaff Plaza Shopping Center. The property is 4.3 mi from Lowell Observatory and 5 mi from Flagstaff Medical Center.
This holiday home is equipped with 2 bedrooms, a living room and a fully equipped kitchen.
Family-Friendly | BBQ or Grill | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Fireplace(s)
Located in Flagstaff, 2.5 mi from The North Pole Experience, The Downtown Crown Flagstaff Home - Walk to NAU! features a living room with a flat-screen TV. The air-conditioned accommodations is 1.3 mi from Northern Arizona University, and guests benefit from complimentary WiFi and priva … More
Located in Flagstaff, 2.5 mi from The North Pole Experience, The Downtown Crown Flagstaff Home - Walk to NAU! features a living room with a flat-screen TV. The air-conditioned accommodations is 1.3 mi from Northern Arizona University, and guests benefit from complimentary WiFi and private parking available on site.
The holiday home features 2 bedrooms, a kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, a washing machine and 1 bathroom with free toiletries.
Family-Friendly | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen
Low-Risk Covid-19 Activity | Pet-Friendly | Family-Friendly | Educational
Set in Flagstaff in the Arizona region, Tranquil Hideaway - BBQ Deck, 2 Fireplaces & Garage home has a patio. The air-conditioned accommodations is 1.7 mi from Northern Arizona University, and guests benefit from complimentary WiFi and private parking available on site.
The holi … More
The holiday home features 4 bedrooms, a TV with satellite channels, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, a washing machine, and 2 bathrooms with a shower.
Cycling can be enjoyed nearby.
The North Pole Experience is 3.7 mi from the holiday home, while Coconino County Fairgrounds is 2.2 mi away. The nearest airport is Flagstaff Pulliam Airport, 2.5 mi from Tranquil Hideaway - BBQ Deck, 2 Fireplaces & Garage home.
Pet-Friendly
Vortex | Low-Risk Covid-19 Activity
Business Center | Concierge Services | Free Wi-Fi | Indoor Pool | Jacuzzi | Fitness Center | Suites | Free Hot Breakfast | Free Self-Parking
Set in Flagstaff, 1.6 mi from The North Pole Experience and 3.7 mi from Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff Cabin with Fireplace and Fire Pit on 5 Acres! offers free WiFi and air conditioning. This holiday home is 3.7 mi from Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce and 4.3 mi from Flag … More
Set in Flagstaff, 1.6 mi from The North Pole Experience and 3.7 mi from Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff Cabin with Fireplace and Fire Pit on 5 Acres! offers free WiFi and air conditioning. This holiday home is 3.7 mi from Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce and 4.3 mi from Flagstaff Medical Center.
The holiday home has 4 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, a washing machine, and 3 bathrooms with a bath or shower.
Family-Friendly | BBQ or Grill | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Private Patios/Balconies | Fireplace(s) | Outdoor Fire Pit