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.

See Leaf Peeping Locations and Recent Fall Pics!

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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.

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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.

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RECOMMENDED THINGS TO DO IN FLAGSTAFF

Cabins & Yurts At AZ 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!

Grand Canyon UTV Tours

YOU DRIVE one of our UTVs as you follow one of our expert guides taking you on an adventure of a lifetime. Our cross country leading to Grand Canyon is a full-day ride and our Verde River Tour is a 4-hour ride. All of our rides are radio-dispatched with check-in points to
YOU DRIVE one of our UTVs as you follow one of our expert guides taking you on an adventure of a lifetime. Our cross country leading to Grand Canyon is a full-day ride and our Verde River Tour is a 4-hour ride. All of our rides are radio-dispatched with check-in points to assure your safety and well-being. Don’t worry about getting lost, you’ll be following one of our expert guides leading the way. Don’t worry about breaking down, we have staff standing by to come to the rescue. What we are trying to say is just don’t worry as you enjoy the adventure of a lifetime, and we’ll see ya on the trail.

Bearizona Wildlife Park - Williams, AZ

Welcome to Bearizona Wildlife Park. We are a Wildlife adventure, open year round.Located on 160 acres in the city of Williams Az. We are right off Route 66 on the way to the Grand Canyon, just a short drive from Sedona and Flagstaff. The park consists of a 3 mile drive thru and Fort Beariz
Welcome to Bearizona Wildlife Park. We are a Wildlife adventure, open year round.Located on 160 acres in the city of Williams Az. We are right off Route 66 on the way to the Grand Canyon, just a short drive from Sedona and Flagstaff. The park consists of a 3 mile drive thru and Fort Bearizona. In the drive thru, you will take your own vehicle or our Wild Ride Bus through pristine Natural habitats for many North American Species. In these free roaming areas You will see wolves, bears, bison, and many other large species that can come right up to your car. Where the drive thru ends Fort Bearizona begins. Park your car and come on in. This is where you will find our smaller animals like river otters and bobcats. The barnyard, which is our petting zoo and fun for all ages. The Raptor Free Flight program, where birds of prey fly right over your head. All Shows which include animal meet-n-greets and training presentations. Big Bear Gift shop, over 8,000 sq feet of treasures and also housing Arizona’s largest model train, a historically accurate replica of the railroad from Williams depot to the grand canyon. For dining options we have the Bearizona Grill for a quick snack or our themed Canyonlands restaurant where you can sit and have a hot meal and a cold beverage overlooking our remarkable jaguar enclosure. You can Hop on our website for all current show times and we hope you can come visit us soon. Not only will you learn about lots of Awesome North American animals but you will also have an amazing time while your doing it.

Private Grand Canyon Hiking Tours

Join us on one of our private Grand Canyon hiking tours and experience the canyon up close and personal! We offer guided hiking tours of the Grand Canyon on several of the best trails along the South Rim, departing from Flagstaff or Grand Canyon in the early morning. Our expert guides will
Join us on one of our private Grand Canyon hiking tours and experience the canyon up close and personal! We offer guided hiking tours of the Grand Canyon on several of the best trails along the South Rim, departing from Flagstaff or Grand Canyon in the early morning. Our expert guides will discuss with you your experience and skill level in order to decide which hiking trails would be the best fit for you. Is there a specific trail you have been dying to hike? Great! Our professional guides are here to make sure you have the best experience possible. Because our hiking tours are completely private, your hiking experience is personalized and can be as long or as short as you want. On our Grand Canyon hiking tours, you can opt for a full day of hiking, or we can split the day between hiking and sightseeing. You’ll experience the canyon like never before. When you walk down the canyon, you are walking through geologic time. See the rock layers, and learn about the canyon’s millions of years of geologic history. Enjoy picture-perfect viewpoints along the trail and capture every breathtaking moment.

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

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)


Haunted Downtown Flagstaff Segway Tour

Explore the streets of downtown Flagstaff—on foot, by bike, or via Segway—during this family-friendly sightseeing excursion, a great choice for first-time visitors. Hear stories of spooky ghost sightings and Wild West history, and learn fun facts about the city. A headset is provided so

Explore the streets of downtown Flagstaff—on foot, by bike, or via Segway—during this family-friendly sightseeing excursion, a great choice for first-time visitors. Hear stories of spooky ghost sightings and Wild West history, and learn fun facts about the city. A headset is provided so you don’t miss a word your guide says. Plus, choose from multiple times to easily fit this tour into your schedule.

  • Discover the haunted history of Flagstaff, Arizona
  • Opt to explore the local streets on foot, by bike, or via Segway
  • Headset provided, so you can hear your guide clearly
  • Choose from multiple times to best suit your schedule

  • The Arboretum

    Open to the public from May through October, The Arboretum at Flagstaff is home to 2,500 species of plants in greenhouses, gardens, and natural habitats. The Arboretum offers guided tours, school programs, and other events

    Fun Flagstaff History Segway Tour

    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 wa

    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.

  • Explore Flagstaff by bike, Segway, or on foot
  • Plenty of stops to admire the sights and take photos
  • Receive tips on what to see and do in Flagstaff from a local guide
  • Choice of tour departure times throughout the day

  • Flagstaff Area National Monuments

    Visit all three Flagstaff Area National Monuments: Walnut Canyon National Monument (7.5 miles), Sunset Crater Volcano (14 miles) and Wupatki National Monument (32 miles) are all nearby.

    Rock Climbing & Indoor Bouldering Gym

    Flagstaff Climbing Center is located in historic downtown Flagstaff. The center features over 6500 square feet of widely varied climbing terrain to suit all abilities and climbing styles. Guides are available to hire for outdoor climbing trips. Choose from several areas around Northern Ari
    Flagstaff Climbing Center is located in historic downtown Flagstaff. The center features over 6500 square feet of widely varied climbing terrain to suit all abilities and climbing styles. Guides are available to hire for outdoor climbing trips. Choose from several areas around Northern Arizona including Sedona.

    Hopi Cultural and Archaeological Day Trip from Flagstaff

    This fascinating journey will take you into the heart of Hopi country. Visit the oldest continuously occupied villages in the United States on our fascinating, in-depth tour into the heart of Hopi lands. Tour departs from Sedona and Flagstaff.

    MORE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES IN FLAGSTAFF

    More Things to Do in the Fall in Flagstaff