This Scenic Arizona Trek Is Even Better in the Winter With Friends

Flagstaff, while beautiful year-round, takes on a special look and feel when covered in a layer of winter snow. This is the city that receives the most snow each winter, and where groups of friends will head to Arizona Snowbowl on weekends and days off to take advantage of the near-perfect skiing and snowboarding conditions. Another fantastic activity with friends is a winter trek on one of Flagstaff's epic hiking trails. For your next Flagstaff outdoor adventure this winter, whether after it snows or after a holiday meal, I suggest bundling up in your warmest winter gear, grab your besties, and head out on the Campbell Mesa and Anasazi Loop.

Within the vast Coconino National Forest, featuring towering Ponderosa pines and majestic mountains, you'll find a wide variety of hiking trails, from beginner to expert-level. For an easy, enjoyable winter hike in Flagstaff with friends, you should consider the Campbell Mesa and Anasazi Loop. Parking for the trailhead is off of E. Old Walnut Canyon Road, across from Peaceful Valley Memorial Park.

The three-mile trail, which combines the Campbell Mesa Trail and the Anasazi Trails into a loop, is relatively flat, with only 160 feet of elevation gain. However, there are a couple of slightly steep climbs and rocky terrain along the trail to keep in mind.

As you and your friends catch up while hiking this loop trail, make sure to stop once in a while to enjoy the scenery. There will be Ponderosa pines with their impressive heights towering overhead, and occasional clearings that will create a window to see the impressive snow-capped peak of Mount Elden. You may want to take a group selfie with the mountain and snow-covered pines as your backdrop to remember the moment, and don't forget to breathe in the crisp mountain air!

While this is a popular trail, it doesn't feel crowded like the Aspen Nature Loop near Snowbowl does in the fall. And with the winter weather, you'll find it to be quieter than other times of the year. Between the scenery, a layer of snow on the ground, and the sound of the mountain breeze through the trees, the Campbell Mesa and Anasazi Loop is a wonderful option if you're looking for a winter trail in Arizona to enjoy with friends.

This easy loop trail is the perfect activity to enjoy after your Friendsgiving meal or some other delectable feast during the holiday season. So, head outside, get some exercise on this beautiful trail, and breathe in the fresh mountain air and the scent of pine as you enjoy some camaraderie with those closest to you. What a wonderful way to celebrate the winter season!

Would you hike the Campbell Mesa and Anasazi Loop in Flagstaff with a group of friends this winter? What other hikes around Arizona are best shared with others during the winter months? Please send us your suggestions!

Need help planning your next hiking adventures around Arizona? Check out Only In Your State’s itinerary planner for suggestions.