17 Highest-Rated Running and Hiking Trails near Flagstaff, AZ

Flagstaff is an excellent gateway to many stunning hikes, including the highest point in Arizona. It is also the ideal summer hiking destination as the temperatures rarely rise above 80F.

By Dan Wild
Published: November 5, 2021

Thanks to its elevation (6,910 ft), Flagstaff offers a unique, mountainous landscape, very different from the traditional Arizonian desert.

Although cooler in summer, the hikes here are more demanding because of the altitude. However, the selection is huge; you can stroll in family-friendly parks or climb the highest peak in Arizona; it’s up to you.

This list of the top-rated trails will help you find your next hike and inspire you to go on adventures.

Trails near Flagstaff:

Devils Bridge Trail
Oak Creek Trail (West Fork)
Soldier Pass Trail
Humphreys Peak
Boynton Canyon Trail
Fay Canyon Trail
Fatman’s Loop Trail
Elden Lookout Trail
Inner Basin Trail
Buffalo Park Trail
Kachina Trail
Old Caves Crater Trail
Sandys Canyon Trail
Mars Hill Trail
Abineau and Bear Jaw Trails Loop
Kendrick Peak Trail
Campbell Mesa Loop

1. Devils Bridge Trail

Highlight: Highly-rated and very popular hike to the largest sandstone ark in the area; stunning desert landscape; steep climb at the end.
Type: Out and Back
Trail Length: 3.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 521 ft
Time to Complete: 2h
Difficulty: Moderate
Parking: Devil’s Bridge Lot: Google Maps
Distance from Flagstaff: 35 miles (1h)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Devils Bridge Trail is a 3.9 mile out and back trail near Sedona. There are plenty of activities on this trail, from trail running to hiking and scrambling.

It is a pleasant but moderate hike; its primary challenge is the 521ft of elevation with little to no shade.

The hike takes you past wildflowers on rocky terrain to Devils Bridge – the largest natural sandstone arch in the Sedona area, with great views.

The biggest complaint is the last section of the hike, which is steep, rocky, and requires some scrambling.

The trailhead is well-developed, though, and there’s plenty of parking. The route is easy to follow because it’s so well-maintained and heavily trafficked.

2. Oak Creek Trail (West Fork)

Highlight: Fantastic canyon hike through shaded woods with creek crossings and soft, sandy surface; one of the best walks in Sedona.
Type: Out and Back
Trail Length: 7.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 728 ft
Time to Complete: 4h
Difficulty: Moderate
Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
Distance from Flagstaff: 20 miles (30 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Oak Creek Trail is a 7.8 mile out and back trail near Munds Park. It is perfect for hiking and trail running.

This is a partially paved moderate hike with just 728ft of elevation gain, making it a family-friendly destination.

The trail takes you through trees offering great shade. It also follows a river and has 13 creek crossings, so prepare to get your feet wet.

The biggest complaint is the length of the trail and the sun-exposed section. Bring plenty of water and stick to the treeline to beat the heat.

The turnaround point doesn’t have a rest area. So, start early and get back early to enjoy this trail.

3. Soldier Pass Trail

Highlight: Must-do hike with many geological marvels: Devil’s Kitchen, Seven Sacred Pools, Soldier Pass Cave, and Soldier Arch. Best value per mile.
Type: Out and Back
Trail Length: 4.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 839 ft
Time to Complete: 2h 30 min
Difficulty: Moderate
Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
Distance from Flagstaff: 33 miles (55 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Soldier Pass Trail is a 4.5-mile loop trail near Sedona. This trail is used for scrambling and hiking.

This moderate hike has an elevation gain of 839ft. Some parts of the trail have loose rocks and require some scrambling.

The trail takes you to Devil’s Kitchen (sinkhole formed by underground caverns), Soldier Pass Cave, and Soldier’s Arch.

The biggest complaint is that Soldier Pass Trail isn’t well-marked at first. It gets better, but an offline map or GPS could help.

The trailhead is well-developed, with restrooms and parking spots. The views from the Soldier Pass are some of the best in the area.

4. Humphreys Peak

Highlight: Strenuous climb to the highest peak in Arizona (12,633 ft). Long, rocky, steep, and cold, this hike is for seasoned adventurers.
Type: Out and Back
Trail Length: 10.7 miles
Elevation Gain: 3,395 ft
Time to Complete: 6h
Difficulty: Hard
Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
Distance from Flagstaff: 14 miles (25 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Humphreys Peak is one of the best hiking trails near Flagstaff. The 10.7 miles out and back route will leave you speechless.

This tough hike has an elevation gain of 3,395ft and is best left to experienced hikers. Humphreys Peak is the highest point in Arizona at 12,633ft!

Clear weather offers the best views, as the Grand Canyon can be seen on cloudless days. The trail takes you through alpine forests, which protect you from the sun.

However, this trail is not well-marked or easy to follow; a map and GPS can be handy. Plus, icy conditions make this hike a real expedition during the cold season.

Views from the peak are breathtaking as you stand higher than anyone else in the state. But come prepared with warm gear; it gets chilly on the top even in the summer months.

5. Boynton Canyon Trail

Highlight: Highly-rated red rocks trail with towering canyon walls, caves, and other stunning geological features; great in fall.
Type: Out and Back
Trail Length: 7.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,167 ft
Time to Complete: 3h 30min
Difficulty: Moderate
Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
Distance from Flagstaff: 38 miles (1h)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Boynton Canyon Trail is a 7.3 mile out and back trail near Sedona. It’s a historic site popular with hikers and trail runners.

The trail is a well-shaded, moderate hike with 1,167ft of elevation and loose, rocky sections, which increase the difficulty.

The route is filled with Native American history and stunning geological features. It’s said that there are energy centers and vortexes along the canyon.

The biggest complaint is that the trail is tricky to navigate with a few hard-to-follow sections. Hence, an offline map or GPS is a must.

However, the trailhead is well-developed and has restrooms, information stands, and a decent-sized parking lot.

6. Fay Canyon Trail

Highlight: Easy canyon trail with slight elevation; stunning geological features including box canyons, red rocks, and Fay Canyon Arch.
Type: Out and Back
Trail Length: 2.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 383 ft
Time to Complete: 1h 30min
Difficulty: Easy
Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
Distance from Flagstaff: 38 miles (1h)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Fay Canyon Trail is a 2.6 mile out and back route near Sedona. Popular activities here include hiking, running, and scrambling.

It’s great for all skills levels with only 383ft elevation gain, perfect for dog walkers and families with kids.

The route features gorgeous geological formations with red rock canyon walls all around. The highlight of the trail is the Fay Canyon Arch – the naturally-formed sandstone bridge.

However, the major complaint is that Fay Canyon Arch is difficult to find. It is accessed via a sidetrack about halfway through the route. Don’t miss the turn!

Although the trail is rocky, it is easy to follow. Plus, you can do some light scrambling to make the most of the views.

7. Fatman’s Loop Trail

Highlight: Short loop near Flagstaff with lovely views of the city; great for workouts but rocky; lots of other trails in the area.
Type: Lollipop
Trail Length: 2.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 561 ft
Time to Complete: 1h 30min
Difficulty: Moderate
Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
Distance from Flagstaff: 5 miles (10min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Fatman’s Loop is one of the best hiking trails in Flagstaff. It’s a 2.4-mile loop on the slopes of Elden Mountain, great for hiking, running, and mountain biking.

This is a moderate trail with 561ft of elevation and rocky, loose terrain underfoot at times.

The trail offers beautiful views and picture opportunities. And in spring, wildflowers make this even more enjoyable.

The biggest complaint is that the route is hard to follow because many other trails cross the area. Hence, a map or some form of GPS navigation will come in handy.

However, the views of Flagstaff from the slopes are wonderful and well worth the effort. Plus, you can easily extend your adventure by connecting to other trails in the area.

8. Elden Lookout Trail

Highlight: Tough climb in the same area as Fatman’s Loop; steady incline with switchbacks and a few scrambling sections; top workout.
Type: Out and Back
Trail Length: 6.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,312 ft
Time to Complete: 3h 30min
Difficulty: Hard
Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
Distance from Flagstaff: 5 miles (10min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Elden Lookout Trail is a 6.3 mile out and back route near Flagstaff primarily used for hiking.

This trail is difficult with 2,312ft of elevation gain. The incline is constant, so be prepared for a steady ascent the whole way.

It is also technical and features roots, rocks, and boulders that you must navigate. However, the views from the lookout are majestic. You can see the Flagstaff panorama, as well as the impressive Humphreys Peak.

The biggest complaint about this hike is the underdeveloped trailhead. There are no restrooms or places to relax after a strenuous hike.

Although challenging, the trail is a lot of fun. Steep sections add an extra layer of enjoyment, and dogs will love this one too!

9. Inner Basin Trail

Highlight: Fantastic shaded hike through the charming aspen groves; best in fall and spring.
Type: Out and Back
Trail Length: 3.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 774 ft
Time to Complete: 2h
Difficulty: Moderate
Parking: Lockett Meadow Campground: Google Maps
Distance from Flagstaff: 22 miles (40min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Inner Basin Trail is a 3.4 mile out and back trail near Flagstaff. It’s mainly used for hiking, dog walking, and trail running.

The route is moderate in difficulty with 774ft of elevation and lots of shade thanks to the aspen trees.

This trail features beautiful wildflowers and opportunities to spot local wildlife. It is a peaceful and remote route with well-marked and easy-to-follow paths.

Because golden aspen leaves make for fantastic scenery, the best time to visit this area is fall. However, the biggest complaint is muddy and slippery conditions during that season. Take extra care during your hikes!

Thanks to its campground, the trailhead is well-developed with restrooms, picnic areas, and neat campsites, making this area a fantastic destination.

10. Buffalo Park Trail

Highlight: Beautiful short and flat hike in a family-friendly park; has flower meadows and partly shaded; perfect for running.
Type: Loop
Trail Length: 2.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 98 ft
Time to Complete: 1h
Difficulty: Easy
Parking: Park Entrance Lot: Google Maps
Distance from Flagstaff: 3 miles (7 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Buffalo Park Trail is a 2.2 mile out and back route in Flagstaff. It’s great for birdwatching, mountain biking, and nature trips.

The trail is excellent for all skill levels, with just 98ft of elevation gain, making it an ideal destination for families and runners.

The route is popular with local residents as it loops around Buffalo Park and has plenty of activities for kids.

The biggest complaint appears to be from keen hikers who find the trail to be too easy. It’s a scenic destination rather than a physical challenge.

Because it’s in a popular park, it is very well developed with well-marked and easy-to-follow paths.

11. Kachina Trail

Highlight: Stunning shaded trail through the woods with aspen groves; hilly and great for elevation training.
Type: Out and Back
Trail Length: 10.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,528 ft
Time to Complete: 5h
Difficulty: Moderate
Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
Distance from Flagstaff: 15 miles (25 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Kachina Trail is one of the prettiest hiking trails near Flagstaff. This 10.2 miles out and back route is perfect for hiking and dog walking.

The trail has 1,528ft of elevation gain and is rated moderate because of its length.

This trail features beautiful wildflowers, groves, and the chance to see wildlife. Aspens forest is the biggest highlight on the route.

However, the biggest complaint is that the path can be easy to lose. This is especially true when passing through the boulders section. Keep an eye out for the signs, and it will be fine.

The route offers gorgeous views of the San Francisco Peaks and is best visited in the fall when aspens turn golden.

12. Old Caves Crater Trail

Highlight: Charming trail with a steep ascent at the start; a mix of desert and wooded landscape; nice view from the peak.
Type: Lollipop
Trail Length: 3.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 613 ft
Time to Complete: 2h
Difficulty: Moderate
Parking: Silver Saddle Road: Google Maps
Distance from Flagstaff: 8 miles (15 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Old Caves Crater Trail is a 3.5-mile loop near Flagstaff. It’s popular with hikers, dog walkers, and trail runners.

The trail is moderate with 613ft of elevation gain and with rocky paths, but no scrambling.

The route is family-friendly and lets you explore forests and desert areas with lots of wildlife spotting opportunities.

The biggest complaint is the loose rocks on the steeper sections and hard-to-follow segments with poor signage.

However, the caves at the top of the ascent are fun to explore, especially for the kids. Overall, this destination makes for a fun-filled family day out.

13. Sandys Canyon Trail

Highlight: Short and easy canyon hike with many other trails in the area; beautiful landscape, rich wildlife, and unique geological features.
Type: Out and Back
Trail Length: 3 miles
Elevation Gain: 305 ft
Time to Complete: 1h 30 min
Difficulty: Easy
Parking: Canyon Vista Campground: Google Maps
Distance from Flagstaff: 10 miles (20 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Sandys Canyon Trail is a 3 mile out and back route near Flagstaff. Activities here include hiking, trail running, and mountain biking.

The trail is suitable for all skill levels with just 305ft of elevation gain. It’s well shaded and is both kid and dog-friendly.

This route is excellent for spotting wildlife. The walk through the forest area is especially enriching and gives kids the chance to explore.

However, the biggest complaint is the trail’s short length, and many hikers recommend extending to other routes nearby.

As a trail on its own, it’s peaceful and offers pretty views. And, the path is simple to follow and mostly paved.

14. Mars Hill Trail

Highlight: Easy hike through charming woodland with gentle incline; perfect for running and beginners.
Type: Out and Back
Trail Length: 3.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 449 ft
Time to Complete: 1h 30 min
Difficulty: Easy
Parking: Thorpe Bark Park: Google Maps
Distance from Flagstaff: 3 miles (6 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Mars Hill Trail is a 3.5 mile out and back hike near Flagstaff. It’s mainly used for hiking and trail running.

The trail is suitable for all skill levels and has only 449ft of elevation. It’s kid-friendly and allows dogs on a leash.

The main appeal of this hike is the forest setting. It’s a great beginner trail for getting your first miles under the belt and getting used to the altitude.

Some people complain that the 449ft of elevation is more strenuous than it seems, but it levels off at the top so you can catch your breath.

The trail itself is clean, well-marked, and easy to follow – a nice, easy hike to get started on Flagstaff’s trails.

15. Abineau and Bear Jaw Trails Loop

Highlight: Stunning wooded trail with aspen groves for seasoned hikers; very difficult during winter.
Type: Lollipop
Trail Length: 8.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,876 ft
Time to Complete: 4h 30 min
Difficulty: Hard
Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
Distance from Flagstaff: 25 miles (55 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Abineau and Bear Jaw Trails make an 8.5-mile loop near Flagstaff and are primarily used for hiking.

The loop is challenging with a whooping 1,876ft of elevation gain, which is extra challenging in winter.

This hike features beautiful wildflowers and wildlife, and the views from the Bear Jaw Trail are picture-perfect.

The major complaint is the Abineau portion of the trail, which can become dangerous with snow underfoot.

If you are inexperienced in snow, stick to this trail in warmer months, and you’ll be rewarded. Challenging elevation, but fun to complete!

16. Kendrick Peak Trail

Highlight: Highly-rated climb to the 10,417-foot peak with breathtaking views of the valley and surrounding mountains, wildlife, and wildflower meadows.
Type: Out and Back
Trail Length: 9.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,693 ft
Time to Complete: 5h
Difficulty: Hard
Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
Distance from Flagstaff: 24 miles (40 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Kendric Peak Trail is a 9.3 mile out and back climb near Flagstaff. Activities that are great here include bird watching, nature trips, and hiking.

The trail is challenging, with 2,693ft of elevation gain. Switchbacks here are fun but brutal and require good fitness levels.

The trail is beautiful, with plenty of opportunities to spot birds and other wildlife. And the forested sections are particularly charming and tranquil.

Naturally, the biggest issue is the altitude closer to the peak; it will test your lungs as even the fittest hikers will get out of breath here. Take plenty of stops and enjoy the panorama as you scale the summit.

Kendrick Peak will not disappoint either; it offers killer views of the flat valley below with bulging mountain tops.

17. Campbell Mesa Loop

Highlight: Campbell Mesa Loop is probably the best trail running route near Flagstaff; relatively flat and easy with diverse flora and fauna.
Type: Loop
Trail Length: 5.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 314 ft
Time to Complete: 2h 30min
Difficulty: Easy
Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
Distance from Flagstaff: 7 miles (15 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Campbell Mesa Loop is a 5.5-mile loop near Flagstaff. It’s great for trail running, hiking, and nature trips.

The trail is easy for all skill levels. Elevation gain is only 314ft which makes it an excellent destination for families and beginner hikers.

The route is pretty flat and open, offering gorgeous views of the local landscape with wildlife and wildflowers to please the eye.

The biggest complaint is the loose gravel and rough patches in parts. Bring sensible footwear, and this won’t be an issue.

The path is well-maintained and clearly marked the entire way. It has shaded sections, too, so it is a great first hike in the area!

Final Thoughts

Flagstaff is an excellent base for hiking adventures. Springtime is great for wildflowers, summer is fantastic for peak ascents, fall is perfect for golden aspen groves, and winter is the snowshoeing time. You can’t go wrong with Flagstaff.

If you need some adventure motivation, check out Funny and Inspirational Hiking Quotes.

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