Flagstaff is a small city located in the north central Arizona, surrounded by dense forests (called the Coconino National Forest) and is situated at the base of San Francisco Peaks, which is a 12,633-foot-high dormant volcano. Flagstaff is located at the intersection of US Interstate 40 and US Interstate 17, making it a hub for tourism in the Northern Arizona area. The region has long been, and still remains a center for logging. Lumberjacks celebrating the 4^th of July, 1876, nailed a U.S. flag to the top of a tall Ponderosa Pine, thus giving the settlement its name- Flagstaff.

During the winter months, have a great time at the major ski resort called “The Arizona Snowbowl”, which is located on the San Francisco Peaks and is a fantastic place for winter fun, such as snowboarding, tobogganing and downhill and cross-country skiing.

Make sure to visit the Native American ruins, which are encompassed within the Walnut Canyon National Monument. This monument was established in 1915 to preserve numerous Prehistoric archaeological sites, which are spectacularly located in cliffs and along the rim of Walnut Canyon. Evidence of humans dwelling at Walnut Canyon can be traced back over 2,000 years. Based on ceramic analysis and tree ring dates, most Sinagua sites in the area date back to 1100-1225 AD. The progression of the Sinagua people is clearly evident at Walnut Canyon, and is a must for any history buff.

While you are visiting Walnut Canyon, try going for a ledge hike, which is a ¾ mile, off-trail adventure that starts at the Visitor Center and ends on the Island Trail. During this hike, you will visit numerous cliff dwellings in an area otherwise closed off to visitors. There is also a Ranger Cabin Hike available, which is a two-hour, 2-mile journey through Walnut Canyon’s past. This hike is more challenging and involves steep slopes and brush footing areas mixed with spectacular views.

Flagstaff is also located only 120 miles from the Grand Canyon, which makes visiting this marvel of nature possible during your trip. Meteor Crater, the world’s largest intact meteor impact crater, is only 35 miles east of Flagstaff and is absolutely amazing to witness in person.

Whether you are visiting the Painted Desert, the Oak Creek Canyon or the Wupatki National Monument, Flagstaff is the gateway city to many national parks and monuments. Flagstaff is a fun, interesting town to visit and offers activities that everyone on your trip will enjoy.