Where to Find the Best Fall Colors in Flagstaff
Flagstaff, Arizona is one of the top destinations in the Southwest for experiencing brilliant fall colors. Every autumn, the mountain town transforms into a kaleidoscope of gold, orange, and crimson aspen leaves set against clear blue skies and crisp alpine air. Visitors come from across the state to enjoy this short but spectacular season — and locals never tire of it. With its high elevation, forested meadows, and miles of scenic drives, Flagstaff offers some of the most dramatic fall foliage in Arizona. Because there are few regions in the state where you can experience this kind of autumn magic, many of the best spots to see fall leaves in Flagstaff can get busy during peak weekends. Plan ahead, check current fall color reports, and don’t forget your camera and a warm jacket — Flagstaff’s leaf-peeping season is one you won’t want to miss.
When Do Leaves Change Color in Flagstaff?
Fall colors in Flagstaff typically begin in late September and peak throughout October, depending on elevation, rainfall, and temperature. Higher-elevation areas such as the San Francisco Peaks and Snowbowl Road turn golden first, while areas farther south — like Oak Creek Canyon — continue to display color well into early November.
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Lockett Meadow
Current Conditions Though Forest Road 552 is closed to motor vehicles, visitors may use the road to hike to Lockett Meadow. Be aware that it is 2.8 miles one-way from the parking area at the bottom (7,600 ft.) to Lockett Meadow (8,500 ft).
Lockett Meadow is Flagstaff’s most iconic fall color destination — and for good reason. Located within the Inner Basin of the San Francisco Peaks, this aspen grove glows gold under the crisp mountain sun. The gentle switchback trail leads through dense groves of quaking aspens, offering postcard-worthy views at every turn. Because of its popularity, arrive early — especially on weekends. The Forest Service limits vehicle access to 100 cars at a time during peak season, typically between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Midweek visits provide a quieter experience.
Directions »


Aspen Corner on Snowbowl Road
If you’re wondering where to find fall colors in Flagstaff without hiking far, Aspen Corner is your answer. Located about halfway up Snowbowl Road, this stretch of highway is lined with brilliant golden aspens on both sides. Safe pullouts make it easy to stop and explore.
Nearby trails like Arizona Trail Passage 34 lead through miles of glowing aspen forest. From Aspen Corner, a four-mile trek to Bismarck Lake showcases continuous color between 8,700 and 9,000 feet.
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.
Directions »
Hwy 89A Between Flagstaff and Sedona
The scenic drive along Highway 89A from Flagstaff to Sedona is one of the most stunning fall color routes in the Southwest. The road winds through Oak Creek Canyon, where towering canyon walls frame golden cottonwoods, amber sycamores, and scarlet maples.
With picnic spots, local coffee stands, and creekside viewpoints, this route is ideal for a full fall day trip. Expect peak color in mid-to-late October.
Directions »


Abineau-Bear Jaw Loop
For those seeking solitude and mountain adventure, the Abineau–Bear Jaw Loop offers some of Flagstaff’s most pristine fall scenery. This 7.2-mile hike climbs through spruce-fir forests and down through aspen-filled canyons with incredible views of the San Francisco Peaks.
Trailhead access requires a high-clearance vehicle along Forest Roads 151, 418, and 9123J, but the payoff is worth it — fewer crowds and endless color.
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.
Directions »
Flagstaff Arboretum
Located just off Historic Route 66, the Arboretum at Flagstaff offers a family-friendly, in-town option for leaf-peeping. The grounds feature a collection of native high-elevation trees and shrubs that put on a spectacular fall display. Stroll the gardens, enjoy a picnic, and learn about Northern Arizona’s ecology while surrounded by autumn beauty.
Directions »

McMillan Mesa Trail
For an easy, accessible fall walk with big views, try McMillan Mesa Natural Area. This 300-acre open space offers flat trails overlooking Mt. Elden and the San Francisco Peaks. The trail connects to Buffalo Park, making it a convenient option for those staying near downtown Flagstaff. Elk and deer are common visitors here, especially during early mornings and dusk.
Arizona Snowbowl
The Arizona Snowbowl Scenic Gondola gives visitors a bird’s-eye view of Flagstaff’s fall colors across the San Francisco Peaks. The ride climbs above 11,000 feet, offering panoramic views of the glowing aspen canopy and even the distant Grand Canyon on clear days.
Prefer hiking? Trails like the Aspen Loop or Humphreys Peak Trail offer immersive walks through brilliant aspen groves starting at 9,200 feet elevation.
Directions »

Photo Credit: Arizona Snowbowl

Photo Credit: Arizona Nordic Village
8. Arizona Nordic Village
Nestled among pine and aspen forests along Highway 180, the Arizona Nordic Village is another underrated fall foliage destination. Explore miles of well-marked trails ideal for hiking or biking beneath golden canopies. For an unforgettable overnight stay, rent one of the cozy on-site yurts and wake up surrounded by autumn color.
Directions »
Best Scenic Fall Color Drives in Flagstaff
1. Hart Prairie Road (FR 151)
A peaceful dirt road north of Flagstaff lined with aspen groves and open meadows framed by mountain peaks.2. Forest Road 418
Loops around the north side of the San Francisco Peaks with breathtaking views near Bear Jaw Canyon.3. Forest Road 794
A short, scenic spur that ends in a glowing aspen stand with stunning views of the mountains.4. Snowbowl Road (FR 516)
A paved, family-friendly drive that winds up toward Arizona Snowbowl with incredible photo stops along the way.5. Freidlein Prairie (FR 522)
A rugged, high-clearance route through quiet aspen forests and dispersed camping areas — ideal for those seeking solitude.RECOMMENDED THINGS TO DO IN FLAGSTAFF
Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course
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)
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Flagstaff is best known as the gateway to the San Francisco Peaks mountain range and the Grand Canyon, but it’s worth spending some time exploring the historic town too. On this tour, discover Flagstaff’s small-town charms on a guided tour and choose from a variety of options. Join a walking tour and enjoy extra time to browse the shops and take photos; explore further on a leisurely bike tour; or zip between the sights on a Segway.
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