Where to Find the Best Fall Colors in Flagstaff

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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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.

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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.

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