Nestled just a couple of hours north of Phoenix, Flagstaff offers a refreshing escape to cooler temperatures and stunning mountain scenery. The scenic drive transports you from the bustling desert Valley to the serene pine forests of the San Francisco Peaks.
Whether you’re a foodie, are looking to see some historic Route 66 attractions, like to hike or are into winter sports, there’s a little something for everyone.
While we will be sharing more travel itineraries and things to do around Arizona, this three-day itinerary focuses mainly on hiking and sightseeing out in nature. Stay tuned for other travel itineraries and ideas to come.
Day 1: Arizona Snowbowl and Lowell Observatory
We stayed in an Airbnb just five miles north of downtown Flagstaff. Depending on where you are in the Valley driving time varies, but if you’re coming from Phoenix plan on a bit over a two hour drive.
Our first stop was the Arizona Snowbowl. Depending on when you go you can plan on spending the day on the mountain or purchase tickets for a scenic ride up the mountain on the gondola.
We decided to check out Aspen Loop Trail, a 1.8 mile moderately ranked trail.
On the scenic drive up to Arizona Snowbowl there are plenty of other hikes to check out based on distance and level. Looking for the perfect spot to snap your next Instagram pic? Keep your eyes out as you drive along N. Snow Bowl Road for the famous Aspen Corner Swing. Pose as you glide above a serene clearing surrounded by towering aspens and breathtaking views of the San Francisco Peaks.
After a dinner at Flagstaff Brewing Company downtown, we headed to Lowell Observatory. Check the website out before visiting to explore what you’ll be able to see on that particular day/night.
Located in a Dark Sky City, visitors can explore the wonders of the universe through guided tours, view celestial objects using powerful telescopes, learn about the history of astronomical discoveries and see the site where Pluto was first identified.
Day 2: Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument and Wupatki National Monument
About a 30 minute drive from downtown Flagstaff you’ll find dramatic volcanic features including rugged lava flows, black cinder fields and sparse vegetation. For $25 you’ll be able to enter Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument. The scenery here contrasts sharply with the lush forests and alpine meadows that you’d associate with Flagstaff.
There’s a 34-mile scenic loop that winds from Highway 89 allowing you to see both Sunset Crater Volcano and Wapatki National Monument.
To fully appreciate the change of scenery we recommend choosing a few hikes to do. Here’s our favorites:
- A’Ah Lava Trail: 0.2 mile loop ranked easy that takes you straight into the sharp volcanic rock scenery.
- Lava Flow Trail: 0.9 mile loop ranked moderate. Surrounded by pumice, you’ll see various lava flow features including a splatter cone and adjacent mound.
- Lenox Crater Trail: 1.1 mile loop ranked moderate. With a gain of about 300 feet, this trail provides a beautiful overlook of the area.
After hitting some hikes or stopping at scenic viewpoints, make your way to Wupatiki National Monument. For $25 you’ll get to see a glimpse into the cultural and architectural heritage of ancient pueblos built over 900 years ago.
Day 3: Elden Pueblo and the Kachina Village
Before heading back to the Valley we checked out two more spots. We did the short Elden Pueblo Ruins loop where you’ll find a Sinagua village with 60-70 rooms, smaller dwellings and pit houses all built around 800 years ago.
The loop around the ruins is only about a quarter mile and you’ll be able to see everything in that short walk.
Next we headed to Kachina Village and did the 1.6 mile, easy ranked, Kachina Wetlands loop. Depending on when you go, you’ll be able to see the wetlands filled with life and water, creating a beautiful mirrored image of the surrounding mountains.
Kachina Village is the perfect spot for bird watching, fishing, picnicking or simply just relaxing and enjoying the picturesque mountain views before driving the two hours home.
This three-day itinerary allows you to discover Flagstaff’s diverse landscapes. From lava rock to aspens, pine forests and the Kachina wetlands, this weekend trip allows you to see a bit of everything.
