If you’ve never been to Flagstaff, you’re in for a treat. This mountain city is surrounded by ponderosa pine forests and the desert. It’s the gateway to the San Francisco Peaks, home to Arizona’s tallest mountain, Humphreys Peak. The city is also home to the popular Arizona Snowbowl ski resort, and it has several museums and cultural sites. The area is also rich in Native American history, with Walnut Canyon dotted with cliff dwellings.
Visitors can explore the city’s natural wonders by hiking and biking. The area is also a popular spot for rafting trips. The Hatch River Expeditions company, located on East Burris Lane northeast of downtown Flagstaff, opened in 1929. It’s one of the oldest rafting companies in the United States and specializes in personalized white water rafting trips down the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. Tours are available for all levels and the staff will help you plan your trip.
For history buffs, you can visit the Flagstaff Museum, which is housed in a beautiful lava stone building. The museum is located on US-89 and has a central garden where typical plants are on display. The flagstaff arboretum, on the other hand, is an outdoor living museum of high elevation plants. The 200-acre grounds are home to over 2,500 different species of plants, and you can take guided or self-guided tours through it. Children will love the butterfly house.
The Pioneer Museum is located in the old Coconino County Hospital for the Indignant. The museum houses a collection of Native American artifacts and highlights the area’s history. There are also plenty of artifacts to see, such as a 1908 locomotive and a Santa Fe caboose from the 1940s. The museum is run by the Arizona Historical Society, which also manages museums in Tucson and Yuma.
The Walnut Canyon is a natural wonderland located east of Flagstaff. Named for its many Arizona walnut trees, this canyon is home to over 400 species of plants and interesting wildlife. The trail descends into the canyon, and the trail offers you a chance to view 25 ancient limestone cliff dwellings. It is also home to the historic Orpheum Theater. If you’re looking for an active winter, Flagstaff has plenty of winter sports to keep you active.
The Pioneer Museum is a unique space in the city. Originally a hospital, it features exhibits from the 1880s to the 1960s. The museum is 14 miles from downtown and features a two-mile track and a 20-station Vita course. The San Francisco Peaks are visible from here and it’s easy to get lost in the desert. If you’re looking for outdoor activities, Flagstaff has everything you need for a wonderful family vacation.