Flagstaff, AZ is a very popular and thriving southwestern city. It has an intriguing history that includes railroading, mining, ranching, and timber production. Flagstaff is situated in the Arizona highlands, and it is now becoming an attractive place for vacationers and real estate investors.
There is a unique combination of suburban and rural lifestyles in the area. Vacationers and people looking for new homes are never disappointed by the range of activities available in Flagstaff. Here are just a few of them.
Coconino National Forest
This wilderness area south of Flagstaff is extremely diverse. It encompasses many terrains including desert rock areas and mountain pine forests. This is an Arizona hiker’s paradise. It also features endless open areas for campers, running trails, small fishing lakes, and photography opportunities not found any where else in the world.
Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra
This acclaimed regional orchestra is now in its 70th season. After exploring the natural attractions around Flagstaff, cap a trip with a concert at the Ardrey Memorial Auditorium. This venue seats 1,330 people, and it is located on the campus of Northern Arizona University.
The Grand Canyon
No recreational trip to Arizona is complete without a jaunt through the Grand Canyon. Book a day tour, or arrange a longer stay full of activities like hiking, horseback riding, camping, and whitewater rafting. Flagstaff is a major hub for visitors to the canyon. Many information centers and guided tours are available.
The Arizona Snowbowl
Skiing has been popular in Arizona for more than a century. The Arizona Snowbowl is located in the San Francisco Peaks about 14 miles away from Flagstaff. It sits at 9,500 feet in elevation, and it lies within one of the best snow belts in the western US. Events and recreational opportunities are available all year. Test your skiing skills and snowboarding in the winter, or book a wedding in the summer. The Arizona Snowbowl has something for everybody.
Museum of Northern Arizona
The cultural and natural heritage of the entire Colorado Plateau is on display at this museum. It is located on Highway 180 on the wonderful route to the Grand Canyon. A special event, presentation, or fossil display is featured on almost every weekday of the year. This is a fantastic place to learn about the natural areas people explore around Flagstaff.
Walnut Canyon National Monument
Island Trail within this area leads visitors through some of the most immaculately preserved native sites in the country. The Sinagua was home to cliff dwellers until about 700 years ago. More than 25 dwellings are still viewable. Visitors can explore them while hiking through established trail systems that reach 7,000 feet in elevation.
Lake Powell
This is the second largest man-made reservoir in the US, and it straddles the Arizona and Utah border. It is fed by the Colorado River, and it is a hot spot for anyone in Arizona who loves water recreation. Several marinas are located on its shores for booking a guided fishing excursion and renting sports equipment. Camping, swimming, and special seasonal events are extremely popular at this massive lake.
Lowell Observatory
This important scientific location was founded 125 years ago. Its unique situation outside of the Grand Canyon allows viewing of the night sky with virtually no modern light interruption. Camping is encouraged in the area, but observatory tours are also available.
Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend
Unbelievable colors, otherworldly rock formations, and mystical caves are found at these locations. This pristine natural park is mostly available for touring only with a guide, but outlying areas are more accessible. Rock climbers and hiking enthusiasts from around the world are drawn to this area. It is one of the most photographed canyon areas in the world.
Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course
This “fun zone” is a huge part of why Flagstaff is popular for families. This course is located at the Fort Tuthill County Park, and it features obstacle courses and zip lines. The park also features some of the state’s most traveled mountain biking trails. All amenities at the FEAC allow visitors to interact with easily accessible natural surroundings.