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 »

Lockett Meadow Flagstaff

Fall colors at Aspen Corner on Snowbowl Rd

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 »

Fall colors at Oak Creek Canyon Sedona

Fall colors at Abineau-Bear Jaw Loop

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 »
Fall colors at the Flagstaff Arboretum

Fall colors at the McMillan Mesa

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 »
Fall colors at Arizona Snowbowl
Photo Credit: Arizona Snowbowl

Fall colors at Arizona Nordic Village
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.

BOOK YOUR STAY NOW


RECOMMENDED PLACES TO STAY THIS FALL

Find Your Northern Arizona Escape at Village Camp Flagstaff

Surrounded by 1 million acres of national forest, Village Camp Flagstaff blends the beauty of the high country with the comforts of a modern mountain village. With stunning views of Humphreys Peak, it’s the perfect year-round basecamp—offering cool summer escapes and snowy winter advent

Surrounded by 1 million acres of national forest, Village Camp Flagstaff blends the beauty of the high country with the comforts of a modern mountain village. With stunning views of Humphreys Peak, it’s the perfect year-round basecamp—offering cool summer escapes and snowy winter adventures just minutes from downtown Flagstaff.

RV Sites
Spacious, level concrete pads and wide roads make arrival a breeze. Choose from deluxe back-in or pull-through RV sites, each with full hookups (30/50-amp electric, water, and sewer), plus access to our upscale bathhouse and on-site laundry.

Adventure Cabin Rentals
Enjoy the outdoors without giving up the comforts of home in our luxury adventure cabins. Fully furnished with a kitchen, bathroom, private firepit, Wi-Fi, and cable, our cabins sleep anywhere from 4-10 guests and are ideal for families, groups, or anyone craving a modern mountain retreat.

Cabin Ownership
Make the mountains your home away from home. Village Camp Flagstaff offers beautifully designed adventure cabins for purchase—perfect as a second home or vacation basecamp. Owners enjoy full access to resort amenities, exclusive events, and the flexibility to return year-round for every season of adventure. It’s your personal retreat, ready whenever you are.


Mormon Lake Lodge

Situated in the tall pine country of Northern Arizona is just 30 min. south of Flagstaff. The quaint Western ambiance of this remote 280-acre Flagstaff cabins retreat is the perfect backdrop for groups and families.

Backland Luxury Eco-Resort

Take your loved ones on a trip they will never forget. Backland is a luxury eco-resort near the Grand Canyon. Completely surrounded by ponderosa pine forests, our one-of-a-kind tents, chef-prepared meals, and secluded location completely redefine the concept of glamping. Dine by the fir

Take your loved ones on a trip they will never forget. Backland is a luxury eco-resort near the Grand Canyon. Completely surrounded by ponderosa pine forests, our one-of-a-kind tents, chef-prepared meals, and secluded location completely redefine the concept of glamping. Dine by the fire in our glass-walled restaurant, relax with a massage in our tented spa, marvel at the grandeur of the universe through our complimentary telescopes, and take advantage of miles of nearby hiking trails.

    Features:
  • Complimentary Breakfast
  • Onsite Glass Walled Restaurant
  • Onsite and nearby hiking trails
  • Close to the Grand Canyon and dozens of local attractions
  • Pond with sand beach, fishing, and kayaking
  • Snowshoes and sledding onsite when it snows
    Tents feature:
  • Panoramic windows
  • Huge stargazing skylights over the beds (Skyview tents only)
  • Automatic climate control, fully insulated, and energy-efficient
  • King-sized beds
  • Full en-suite bathroom with showers
  • Luxury linens
  • Electricity in tents
  • Tentside parking + electric vehicle charging at reception
  • Private Outdoor patios
  • Coffee makers + mini-fridges
  • Ecological toiletries + water conservation fixtures

Nakai Trail 4-BR A-Frame

This Flagstaff vacation rental and is nestled in the Kachina Pines with breathtaking views of the surrounding forest & immediate access to trails. The house is newly updated including the kitchen & all amenities you might need, including alexa music throughout.

This is the perfe

This Flagstaff vacation rental and is nestled in the Kachina Pines with breathtaking views of the surrounding forest & immediate access to trails. The house is newly updated including the kitchen & all amenities you might need, including alexa music throughout.

This is the perfect base for all your adventures including the Grand Canyon, skiing Snowbowl, hiking, exploring Sedona, and visiting Flagstaff/NAU. Its 4 bedrooms, 2 baths comfortably accommodate 12.


Kiowa Hideaway Guest Cabin

Modern yet cozy, this 2-bedroom Flagstaff cabin blending rustic charm with modern comfort, it’s the ideal Northern Arizona getaway.

Peaks & Pines 5-BR House

Our home is nestled in 2.5 acres of Ponderosa Pines with breathtaking views of Doney Park East ridges & immediate access to hiking/mtn biking. The house is updated with a Gourmet kitchen & all the amenities you might need.

This is the perfect base for all your adventures includi

Our home is nestled in 2.5 acres of Ponderosa Pines with breathtaking views of Doney Park East ridges & immediate access to hiking/mtn biking. The house is updated with a Gourmet kitchen & all the amenities you might need.

This is the perfect base for all your adventures including the Grand Canyon, skiing Snowbowl, hiking, exploring Sedona, visiting Flagstaff/NAU or exploring the attractions. Its 5 bedrooms, 3 baths comfortably accommodate 12 making this house perfect for large groups/families.


Comfortable and Scenic near Grand Canyon - Williams, AZ

Whether you are coming to explore Northern Arizona or just passing through, this inviting vacation rental is just 45-minutes from the Grand Canyon. The house features central air conditioning and heat, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a home theater complete with reclining couches, and a charming
Whether you are coming to explore Northern Arizona or just passing through, this inviting vacation rental is just 45-minutes from the Grand Canyon. The house features central air conditioning and heat, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a home theater complete with reclining couches, and a charming outdoor patio surrounded by nature. Enjoy mountain views, wildlife watching, and stargazing the world-renowned dark sky. Pet friendly and located on a spacious 1-acre property in the juniper pine forest, this peaceful vacation rental is ideal for a family or friends.

Cross Country Skiing, Cabins, & Yurts at Arizona Nordic Village

Stay in a yurt or cabin at the AZ Nordic Village, a premier outdoor recreation destination just north of Flagstaff. Perfectly situated in the cool pine and aspen forests at 8,000 ft of elevation between Flagstaff and Grand Canyon National Park, the Village offers rustic cabin and yurt rent
Stay in a yurt or cabin at the AZ Nordic Village, a premier outdoor recreation destination just north of Flagstaff. Perfectly situated in the cool pine and aspen forests at 8,000 ft of elevation between Flagstaff and Grand Canyon National Park, the Village offers rustic cabin and yurt rentals year-round, and summer campsites that are RV-friendly. Frontcountry yurts and cabins are available for those seeking easy access, and five backcountry yurts offer solitude and natural settings with more comforts than a typical backpacking adventure. Many miles of hiking and biking trails leave right from the Village, and there are numerous other activities nearby, including the Lava River Cave, Red Mountain, Arizona Snowbowl, the Arizona National Scenic Trail, and many other hiking and biking trails.

In the winter season, the Arizona Nordic Village hosts a groomed trail system for cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and fatbiking. Over 20 miles of trails offer opportunities for everybody to have a winter adventure!

Arizona Mountain Inn & Cabins

Our Tudor-style inn and 17 cabins are tucked away on 13 acres of secluded Ponderosa Pines. The grounds are bordered by the Coconino National Forest on three sides with breath-taking views of the San Francisco Peaks.

Arizona Vacation Home Rentals

3 different homes in Flagstaff to choose from! Enjoy friendly wildlife, breathtaking scenery and a rustic setting from the comforts of your own vacation home in a quality mountain town. Each home is specially selected for its uniqueness, views, comfort and enhancement of your vacation expe
3 different homes in Flagstaff to choose from! Enjoy friendly wildlife, breathtaking scenery and a rustic setting from the comforts of your own vacation home in a quality mountain town. Each home is specially selected for its uniqueness, views, comfort and enhancement of your vacation experience. You'll find each one comfortably furnished - especially the beds, for your ultimate rejuvenation.

Spacious Family Home Surrounded by Mtn Views!

Spacious Family Home Surrounded by Mtn Views! is located in Flagstaff, 11 mi from The North Pole Experience and 12 mi from Northern Arizona University, in an area where skiing can be enjoyed. This holiday home features accommodations with a patio and free WiFi.

The holiday home

Spacious Family Home Surrounded by Mtn Views! is located in Flagstaff, 11 mi from The North Pole Experience and 12 mi from Northern Arizona University, in an area where skiing can be enjoyed. This holiday home features accommodations with a patio and free WiFi.

The holiday home has 3 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, a washing machine, and 2 bathrooms with a bath or shower.


Modern Flagstaff Home with BBQ, Walk Downtown!

Modern Flagstaff Home with BBQ, Walk Downtown! in Flagstaff provides accommodations with free WiFi, 2 mi from Northern Arizona University, 5.6 mi from The North Pole Experience and 3.1 mi from Flagstaff Plaza Shopping Center. This holiday home is 2.5 mi from Walkup Skydome and 3.1 mi fr

Modern Flagstaff Home with BBQ, Walk Downtown! in Flagstaff provides accommodations with free WiFi, 2 mi from Northern Arizona University, 5.6 mi from The North Pole Experience and 3.1 mi from Flagstaff Plaza Shopping Center. This holiday home is 2.5 mi from Walkup Skydome and 3.1 mi from Flagstaff Medical Center.

The holiday home features 3 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, a washing machine, and 3 bathrooms with a shower.

A children's playground is available on site and skiing can be enjoyed within close proximity of the holiday home.


Flagstaff Cabin with Fireplace and Fire Pit on 5 Acres!

Set in Flagstaff, 1.6 mi from The North Pole Experience and 3.7 mi from Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff Cabin with Fireplace and Fire Pit on 5 Acres! offers free WiFi and air conditioning. This holiday home is 3.7 mi from Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce and 4.3 mi from Flag

Set in Flagstaff, 1.6 mi from The North Pole Experience and 3.7 mi from Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff Cabin with Fireplace and Fire Pit on 5 Acres! offers free WiFi and air conditioning. This holiday home is 3.7 mi from Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce and 4.3 mi from Flagstaff Medical Center.

The holiday home has 4 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, a washing machine, and 3 bathrooms with a bath or shower.

A children's playground is available on site and skiing can be enjoyed within close proximity of the holiday home.


Family-Friendly Forested Home with Snow Play Area!

Serene Home Located in Forest, 4Mi to NAU Campus! in Flagstaff provides accommodations with free WiFi, 4.3 mi from Northern Arizona University, 5.6 mi from The North Pole Experience and 4.3 mi from Flagstaff Plaza Shopping Center. The property is 4.3 mi from Lowell Observatory and 5 mi

Serene Home Located in Forest, 4Mi to NAU Campus! in Flagstaff provides accommodations with free WiFi, 4.3 mi from Northern Arizona University, 5.6 mi from The North Pole Experience and 4.3 mi from Flagstaff Plaza Shopping Center. The property is 4.3 mi from Lowell Observatory and 5 mi from Flagstaff Medical Center.

This holiday home is equipped with 2 bedrooms, a living room and a fully equipped kitchen.

A children's playground is available on site and skiing can be enjoyed within close proximity of the holiday home.


Cheerful Kathys Cabin, King Bed, Hot Tub, Close to NAU, Airport & Hiking Trails!

2.9 miles from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, Cheerful Kathys Cabin, King Bed, Hot Tub, Close to NAU, Airport & Hiking Trails! provides accommodations with access to a hot tub. Guests staying at this vacation home have access to a patio. There's an outdoor fireplace and guest

2.9 miles from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, Cheerful Kathys Cabin, King Bed, Hot Tub, Close to NAU, Airport & Hiking Trails! provides accommodations with access to a hot tub. Guests staying at this vacation home have access to a patio. There's an outdoor fireplace and guests can use free Wifi and free private parking.

The spacious vacation home has 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with a hot tub. Providing a balcony with mountain views, this vacation home also offers a flat-screen TV, a well-equipped kitchen with a dishwasher, an oven, and a microwave, as well as 2 bathrooms with a walk-in shower and a hair dryer. There's also a seating area and a fireplace.

Guests at the vacation home will be able to enjoy activities in and around Flagstaff, like fishing. The vacation home has a picnic area where you can spend the day outdoors.


Cozy Flagstaff Studio with Patio - Near Dtwn!

Cozy Flagstaff Studio with Patio - Near Dtwn! is located in Flagstaff, just 2.6 miles from The North Pole Experience and 5.3 miles from Coconino County Fairgrounds. This apartment provides accommodations with a balcony. The apartment also offers facilities for disabled guests.

Wi

Cozy Flagstaff Studio with Patio - Near Dtwn! is located in Flagstaff, just 2.6 miles from The North Pole Experience and 5.3 miles from Coconino County Fairgrounds. This apartment provides accommodations with a balcony. The apartment also offers facilities for disabled guests.

With free Wifi, this apartment offers a flat-screen TV, a washing machine, and a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and oven. Towels and bed linen are offered in the apartment. For added privacy, the accommodation features a private entrance.


GUIDED EXPERIENCES THAT TAKE YOU THROUGH FALL COLORS

More Things to Do in the Fall in Flagstaff