How many different landscapes can one area contain? If we’re talking about Coconino National Forest, the answer is "a lot." From the iconic red rocks of Sedona to mountainous alpine tundra, this woodland expanse is one of the most diverse national forests in the country. These seven hikes outline just how stark the differences are:
Devil's Bridge is easily the most popular hike in the forest, and for good reason. At 4.6 miles, it's a fairly brief hike, with a return entirely disproportionate to the required effort. Looking out over the giant sandstone arch, you can practically see all of Sedona!
You can also experience some of the area's most iconic landforms, including Cathedral Rock. These iconic red canyonlands have come to define the city, and your visit just wouldn't be complete without seeing them up-close.
The terrain in Flagstaff couldn't be more different than Sedona, but alas, both cities are part of the very same forest. Elden Lookout Trail is rather difficult, but the panoramic views atop its 2,300+ foot elevation gain are simply unparalleled.
One trail in Coconino National Forest even leads underground! Take a short and sweet .3-mile trek to Lava River Cave, a more than 3,800-foot-long tunnel formed eons ago by surging lava flow.
Lush, jungle-like greenery can be found on Fossil Creek Waterfall Trail near Camp Verde. The 2.6-mile out-and-back hike is accessible to all skill levels transports you straight to a tropical oasis.
Heading back to Sedona, Seven Sacred Pools features little craters filled with pristine water that sparkles beneath the sunlight. It truly feels like you're on another planet!
From ancient volcanic rock underneath the earth's surface to the sky-high San Francisco Peaks, it's hard to think of anything missing from the incredible Coconino National Forest. This view is simply breathtaking!
The best hikes are accessible year-round and have equally gorgeous views in all four seasons, and Gateway Loop Trail at McDowell Sonoran Preserve is one such adventure. It's short, easy, and incredibly scenic, leading to a jaw-dropping overlook that requires minimal effort to reach. If you've been searching for family-friendly hikes or short day hikes in Arizona, look no further!
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Next time you're in the mood for a short and sweet adventure, don't look any further than the Gateway Loop Trail at McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
It's one of the most popular hikes in Scottsdale, and for good reason. At just over four miles long, it's perfect for a quick sunrise stroll or meditative evening walk.
What really sets this trail apart is the fact that it's accessible year-round, and the views are breathtaking no matter the season.
Not much about the terrain changes when fall and winter roll around - it is southern Arizona, after all. But as far as we're concerned, the mild climate is a blessing rather than a curse!
Don't leave your furry friend at home - leashed dogs are welcome and encouraged to accompany their owners.
You can explore the area for as little or as much time as your heart desires. That's the beauty of this hike!
Click here to learn more about the trail. Have you ever hiked Gateway Loop Trail? If so, we'd love to hear all about your experience! Tell us in the comments, and check out our previous article for more family-friendly hikes in Arizona:
Arizona in the fall is a truly enchanting time, with so many magical places to explore. From the Snowbowl to Apple Annie's and everywhere in between, here are the 11 most beautiful destinations to visit in Arizona in fall.
At just under three miles long, this easy, short-and-sweet trail is one of the most iconic fall destinations in Arizona. You haven't lived until you've hiked through a grove of brilliantly yellow aspens! You'll find the trail on the western slope of the San Francisco Peaks near the Snowbowl. This is one of the best places to visit in Arizona in October.
Each fall, the Verde Canyon Railroad holds its ever-popular Fall Colors Tour. On board a historic train car, you'll whiz past eye-popping foliage that offers a stark contrast to the lofty red rocks surrounding them. The ride takes place in October and November. We can't think of a more relaxing way to take in the glorious autumn landscape of the Grand Mountain State. In fact, we think you should add this to your fall bucket list in Arizona!
Perhaps even more renowned than the Aspen Nature Lollipop Trail is the West Fork Trail. This 7.2-mile adventure features some of the most striking fall colors across the entire state, in a vast array of breathtaking colors. You'll find the trailhead 11 miles north of Sedona, with an access point at the Call of the Canyon day use area. This is one hike that belongs on every Arizonan's bucket list!
Come autumn, the lush woodland terrain of Arizona's dazzling San Francisco Peaks is set ablaze with the fire of a thousand suns. Many a trail traverses this enchanting landscape, so lace up your hiking boots and start exploring!
While Arizona may not be a world-renowned leaf-peeping destination, some places in the Grand Canyon State look exactly like New England in the fall. Boyce Thompson Arboretum in Superior is one of them, with autumn foliage so striking, you’ll feel like you’re anywhere besides the desert. Boyce Thompson Arboretum is the oldest and largest botanical garden in Arizona, spanning nearly 400 glorious acres. Fall is by far our favorite season to visit, as various types of trees showcase their most spectacular red, orange, and yellow hues. Three miles of trails wind through the park, providing ample opportunity to enjoy the views.
It simply isn't fall in Arizona without a visit to Apple Annie's Orchard in Wilcox. Ten varieties of apples grow in their sprawling, u-pick fields, just waiting to be taken home and used in scrumptious recipes. (And the cider donuts from Apple Annie's? Next level!) Adding to the festive fun are a pumpkin patch and corn maze! The orchards and pumpkin patch have different addresses, so visit the Apple Annie's website for specifics.
Can you picture a better place to escape to in the fall? Forest Houses Resort is nestled on Oak Creek in Sedona, making it perfect for a leaf-peeping getaway. With 16 charming treehouses to choose from, rest assured there's something to fit your unique needs and preferences. It's like something out of a dream during the height of fall foliage.
Another Flagstaff hike, Inner Basin Trail spans 3.2 miles of beautiful pine and aspen trees. There are no words to describe the striking vistas -- it's like something straight out of a fairytale. To access the trailhead, use Google Maps to Lockett Meadow.
Also on Oak Creek, Orchard Canyon is nestled on 10 acres of vibrant organic gardens and apple trees. A total of 16 cozy cabins sleep between two and six people, all framed by the warm colors of autumn. Staying here feels like entering a whimsical storybook!
Although the Arizona Snowbowl is most popular in the winter for obvious reasons, we're quite partial to it during fall. Nothing really compares to riding the ski lift through some of the most vivid foliage you've ever seen! This is beautiful enough to rival any Vermont fall foliage, we say.
Finally, we head back to Flagstaff to embark on the Abineau Trail to Bear Jaw Trail. The most strenuous hike on our list, this nearly seven-mile trek ascends almost 1,900 feet of mountainous terrain. Your efforts will be duly rewarded, however, as the pure bliss of seeing a forest floor covered in bright yellow leaves. This truly is one of the top places for autumn leaf peeping in Arizona!
Are you ready for a fall road trip in Arizona? Make sure to check out our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List for everything you'll need before hitting the road!
