Flagstaff, Arizona is Picture Perfect

Autumn Colors of Flagstaff ©Logan Brumm

Flagstaff is a perfect day trip from Scottsdale, particularly during the summer months since its almost 7,000 feet of elevation creates temperatures that are about 25 degree Fahrenheit cooler than Scottsdale. If you choose to stay in Flagstaff AZ for a couple of days, it is the ideal home-base to explore the many attractions in Flagstaff and Northern Arizona.

Satisfy your craving for all outdoor related activities by planning your escape to the picture-perfect backdrops of Flagstaff, Arizona. It is a great base camp to explore the Grand Canyon, but it is also a fantastic destination vacation spot in itself. Enjoy year round outdoor fun with the majestic San Francisco Peaks scenic mountain range as your backdrop.

From hiking, biking, camping, fishing, rock climbing, and river rafting at the Grand Canyon during the Spring, Summer and Fall to downhill and cross country skiing, downhill skiing and snow-boarding during snowy parts of winter, Flagstaff offers up the best of the outdoors.

Once you have filled your day with fresh air and sunshine, Flagstaff’s nightlife offers up a wide variety of delicious restaurants, lively, local entertainment and the cool vibe of its historic downtown district.

Start your Flagstaff adventure hiking and mountain biking the trails that weave through the surrounding lush Ponderosa pine forests and tranquil aspen groves. For casual hikers, the local 33-mile urban trail system offers well-maintained, easily navigated trails. If you are looking for a more advanced hike, a short 15-minute drive to the trailhead for Humphreys Summit can take you to the highest point in Arizona. This 12,633-foot peak in the San Francisco peak mountain range will offer a good workout and spectacular views for your effort.

Or maybe you have a need for a bit more speed. Choose to pedal your way a bit quicker through Flagstaff’s forests on a mountain bike. Local companies offer bike rentals and tours or just bring your own bike and explore the trails yourself. Flagstaff’s local mountain bike trails are linked to the urban trail system and can provide a challenge to every level of rider. Change the scenery a bit and hop in the car and head south to Sedona. Just a half hour’s drive from Flagstaff, the terrain is awash in red rocks and a whole different experience.

Deciding whether to pamper yourself or to try “roughing it” or maybe a combination of both is a wonderful choice to have to make while visiting Flagstaff. While there are over 70 hotels and motels to choose from in Flagstaff, some vacationers believe sleeping under the stars is the only way to go. There are close to 20 campgrounds and RV parks within a 30-mile radius of Flagstaff, making it a perfect place for your camping adventure.

Camping and fishing go hand in hand, and once again Flagstaff will not disappoint. Local lakes, such as Upper Lake Mary, Mormon Lake, as well as the nearby Oak Creek, offer anglers many opportunities to throw their hooks towards bass, trout, walleye, catfish and pike.

Still want a bit more of an adrenaline rush? Most river rafting opportunities in the area are done on the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. Many Flagstaff companies offer rafting packages to meet your needs. And if you would rather climb than float, the areas of Paradise Forks, Priest Draw, and Le Petit Verdon are great local climbing spots. Nearby Oak Creek Canyon and, of course, the Grand Canyon, offer additional areas to explore via rope.

Winter can be an excellent time to visit Flagstaff. Yes, it is true that Arizona does get snow and Flagstaff is the place to take advantage of it. Arizona Snowbowl, is one of Arizona’s leading ski resorts. Downhill skiers and snowboarders will find runs to challenge all skill levels. Or if you prefer a slower, more peaceful pace to your skiing, Flagstaff has three local centers for cross-country skiing. There are also several tubing venues for children and adults who think they are children.

End your evenings enjoying the historic downtown district with its eclectic restaurants and lively entertainment. Or choose from over 150 restaurants and bars offering everything from steakhouse, seafood, Mexican, Asian, bar food, burgers and sandwiches. Upscale or super casual, you will find something for everyone’s taste buds in Flagstaff.

Recharge your mind, body and soul with a Flagstaff vacation today. Whether you hike, bike, climb, fish, or camp, you can leave your hectic workdays behind for a little rest and relaxation in the ultimate outdoor enthusiasts’ playground - Flagstaff, Arizona.

Imagine the picture perfect postcard collection you will create with your Flagstaff outdoor adventure.

Getting To Flagstaff AZ

Flagstaff is an easy and scenic 155 mile drive from Scottsdale, Arizona. Just jump on the 101 Loop at Indian School Road and head west towards Interstate 17. Take I-17 North and the Freeway ends as you enter Flagstaff. Expect about a 2.5 hour drive unless you make stops along the way.