The Mountain Bikers' Adventure

Our Local Expert Says:

Great vegetarian selection at the deli. Many sandwiches, salads and full-meal items to choose from.

Description:

Salads, sandwiches, soups and baked goods are made fresh daily using top quality natural ingredients at this favorite Flagstaff market and deli. You'll never find any artificial flavors, colors or preservatives here. Anyone with vegetarian dietary preferences (no matter how strict) or special dietary restrictions should give this place a try. A few tables are available for dining in, but most of the business is on a take-out basis.

Description:

10 miles northwest of Flagstaff, west of the San Francisco Peaks. This is a relaxing, scenic cruise through pine forest and meadows with little elevation change. Your destination is a lava tube cave. This type of cavern forms when molten lave, flowing through an underground passage, subsides and leaves a long, tube-like cave.

Description:

Walk under the shark, past the row of what looks like old brightly painted race car seats, and you're entering the party zone. This Cabo San Lucas/Puerto Vallarta/Acapulco-inspired cantina is fun and funky. It's a favorite place to drink, dine and dance any night of the week. The menu tends toward the tropical with items like Mango Chicken and Margarita Shrimp. Buckets of shrimp, huge burritos and fish and shrimp tacos are also favorites—all at reasonable prices. Live music on weekends will put you in a "fiesta" state of mind.

Description:

The Hotel Weatherford has been home to a radio station, billiard hall, various restaurants, and Flagstaff's first telephone exchange company. It has played host to gunslingers, pioneers, and today, visitors looking for a hotel loaded with character and history. Built in 1897, the Weatherford, conveniently located close to the Amtrak station in downtown, is immediately recognizable by its columned veranda. Most of the hotels 11 rooms are rather spartan and subject to the occasional rattle of passing trains. But if you're seeking a comfortable, affordable stay with turn-of-the-century charm, and don't mind going without some modern amenities such as TV and telephones, the Weatherford fits the bill. If you can't go without, upgrade to one of the three restored rooms on the second floor, which feature claw-foot tubs, air conditioning, and phones. Charly's Pub and Grill, located downstairs, offers solid Southwestern fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and live entertainment.

Description:

This rocky path over rolling terrain leads through a forest of ponderosa pines interspersed with stunted Gambel oaks and gnarled alligator junipers. Also found on this arid south slope of the Dry Lake Hills are a number of hardy shrubs and ground hugging desert plants. Among these are cliffrose, broadleaf yucca and prickly pear cactus. Combined they add a bit of desert ambiance to the surroundings. In season, colorful wildflowers add a splash of brightness to the rocky slopes. From mid-spring to late summer along the trailside you'll see a number of varieties of paintbrush, a creamy yellow flower called butter and eggs and lots of bright red penstemon.

Though this trail is quite close to town, evidence of wildlife is none the less common. The tracks of coyote and elk are frequently mixed in with the tracks of joggers, hikers and mountain bikers. In midsummer the sweet notes of the area's resident songbird, the hermit thrush echo through the forest. As the trail roller coasters over the shallow dry washes that crease the lower slopes of the Dry Lake Hills it offers good views of Flagstaff and its western suburbs. The upper reaches of Oak Creek and Sycamore Canyons are visible in the background. So is Mormon Mountain.

Rocky Ridge Trail provides a convenient connecting route between Schultz Creek Trail and the Oldham Brookbank trails.

Our Local Expert Says:

My personal, favorite spot in Flagstaff. Sublime meadow unexpectedly atop a steep, scraggly trail.

Description:

This quiet trail offers solitude to hikers, horseback riders and mountain bikers looking for a strenuous hike that has spectacular rewards. The rocky trail opens toward the top in a beautiful meadow that, particularly in the summer, is full of wildflowers. Purple, pink, yellow, blue, and orange dot this landscape beneath spectacular views of "The Peaks." Early morning hikers should tread softly and look out for elk, mule deer, and if lucky, black bear. Drive north from Flagstaff on US 180 to FR 420 (Schultz Pass Road). Drive east for 1 mile and, where FR 420 takes a hard left turn continue straight on FR 557 about 3 miles to the Brookbank trailhead.

Description:

Schultz Creek Trail parallels one of several intermittent drainages that carry water from the higher reaches of the San Francisco Peaks. Generally the stream only has water in it a few months of every year, either during the spring snow melt or after a summer monsoon. However, even when there is no water here, which is most of the time, walking beside the water-smoothed stones and ledges worn by ephemeral waterfalls can still give one the pleasant feeling of being near a brook even if you have to imagine the babble.

This trail has one of the most moderate gradients on any in the San Francisco Peaks/ Mt. Elden Area. Still, it has enough ups and downs to be extremely popular with mountain bikers and off-road motorcyclists, both of whom it is open to. So, if you come for a hike or a horseback ride, keep your ears and eyes open and be ready to share the trail with users of all sorts.

If you hike this trail during a quiet time, Albert's squirrels and Steller's jays are animals you might see here. During late spring and early summer this is a good place to hear the musical trill of the hermit thrush. Schultz Creek Trail serves as a connecting trail between Rocky Ridge and the Sunset trails.

NOTES: Motorcycles are permitted on this trail as are mountain bikes and horses, so keep your eyes open.

Description:

Flagstaff has a long history as a railroad town and major resting point for travelers out west. You'll definitely want to spend some time poking around the historic downtown, where stately, turn of-the-century buildings still stand guard over this busy high desert city. Highlights include the Tudor-inspired Santa Fe Railroad station (which houses the Visitor Center, where you'll want to stop and pick up a map), the1888 Babbitt Brothers Trading Company building, the Hotel Monte Vista, and Hotel Weatherford. Remnants of Depression-era roadside Americana can still be found on Route 66, which bisects downtown, including hotels, auto shops, and the Museum Club, a historic road house that continues to welcome road-weary travelers.

Our Local Expert Says:

A well-crafted venue for discourse, board games, and solo reading or contemplation.

Description:

Climb the stairs to the second floor and you're suddenly in another world, a bit closer to Napa Valley than Arizona High Country. This wine bar and shop is an oasis for oenophiles, offering the area's largest and best selection of wines by the glass, plus bottles and wine accessories to go. It also serves a limited appetizer menu and feature live jazz music in a smoke-free atmosphere. The shop regularly schedules wine tasting events highlighting Arizona, California and imported bottlings. Call for the current schedule of tastings.

Description:

The Hotel Weatherford has been home to a radio station, billiard hall, various restaurants, and Flagstaff's first telephone exchange company. It has played host to gunslingers, pioneers, and today, visitors looking for a hotel loaded with character and history. Built in 1897, the Weatherford, conveniently located close to the Amtrak station in downtown, is immediately recognizable by its columned veranda. Most of the hotels 11 rooms are rather spartan and subject to the occasional rattle of passing trains. But if you're seeking a comfortable, affordable stay with turn-of-the-century charm, and don't mind going without some modern amenities such as TV and telephones, the Weatherford fits the bill. If you can't go without, upgrade to one of the three restored rooms on the second floor, which feature claw-foot tubs, air conditioning, and phones. Charly's Pub and Grill, located downstairs, offers solid Southwestern fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and live entertainment.

Our Local Expert Says:

Poached eggs are the specialty here, and they are worth it!

Description:

This is one of Flagstaff's favorite breakfast and lunch spots, and if you're willing to brave long lines (especially prevalent on the weekends), you won't be disappointed by the extensive menu of all your breakfast favorites, which includes nine delicious variations on Eggs Benedict and their popular Trout Breakfast. Owners Ed and Brandy Wojciak, who also own Brandy's on the east side, also serve up a scrumptious lunch menu of specialty sandwiches, quiches, burgers, and salads. The daily lunch specials offer a classic sandwich with a cup of soup for a good price. With lacy white curtains and a relaxed yet always-busy atmosphere, La Bellavia is a sound choice for good eats in downtown Flagstaff.

Description:

9 miles north of Flagstaff, on the San Francisco Peaks. The highest, most alpine ride in this guide, with views of the Grand Canyon and the north slopes of Humphreys Peak, the highest point on this ride.

Our Local Expert Says:

Pizza is delish! Also, home-made brews are mostly hoppy and titillating to the tongue.

Description:

Located one block south of the train station in downtown Flagstaff, Beaver Street Brewery & Whistle Stop Cafe is a local favorite brewery and restaurant with a bright, family-friendly pub atmosphere. The menu is heavy on reliably tasty dishes, including hefty sandwiches with generous servings of fries on the side, fresh salads, yummy fondues, and their popular wood-fired pizzas. Try the Enchanted Forest pie, loaded with Brie, roasted red peppers, spinach, Portobello mushrooms, and artichoke pesto on a chewy, warm crust. Watch the flames fly from your table as chefs prepare meals in the open kitchen, or take a gander as the brewer creates handcrafted ales. Time your visit for late spring and summer, and sit outdoors in the comfortable beer garden. If you're looking for a casual, fun dining spot around downtown, Beaver Street Brewery & Whistle Stop Cafe is always a solid choice.

Our Local Expert Says:

The best place to meet quirky travelers, national and international, and to discover the affordable pleasures of Flagstaff.

Description:

Backpackers, students, and other outdoor enthusiasts love the Grand Canyon Hostel for its great rates, central location and personable staff. Open dorm rooms are perfect for large parties, and private guest rooms are a cozy retreat for couples. Free amenities include coffee, tea, local telephone calls, fresh linens, and breakfast each morning from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. A common area with television and computer facilities generates an upbeat atmosphere in which to meet other like-minded travelers. Set in the middle of downtown Flagstaff, you can always let the action of the day extend far into the night.

Description:

A variety of sandwiches, made with homemade bread, deli meats and cheeses, and lots of fresh vegetables.

Our Local Expert Says:

…

Description:

28 miles west of Flagstaff at the head of Sycamore Canyon. This singletrack skirts the rim of Sycamore Canyon at its headwaters and offers views of the rugged Sycamore Canyon Wilderness. The riding is mostly smooth, fast singletrack.

Description:

The Flagstaff Brewing Company, or "Flag Brew" as its affectionately called by locals, opened its doors in July 1994 and since then has become a downtown Flagstaff institution. Owners and co-founders Jeff Thorsett and Al Henes sought to create a casual pub atmosphere where everyone from hardcore beer lovers to outdoor enthusiasts could come together and enjoy a drink in a lively, friendly pub atmosphere. Some Flag Brew favorites include Bubbaganouj IPA, Three-Pin Pale Ale, Blackbird Porter, Sasquatch Stout, and during the holiday season, The Grinch Holiday Ale. Live music almost every night, a huge menu of mouth-watering burgers, and a spacious patio built for hours of beer drinking and socializing makes this one of the best hang-out spots in the city.

Our Local Expert Says:

The best place to meet quirky travelers, national and international, and to discover the affordable pleasures of Flagstaff.

Description:

Backpackers, students, and other outdoor enthusiasts love the Grand Canyon Hostel for its great rates, central location and personable staff. Open dorm rooms are perfect for large parties, and private guest rooms are a cozy retreat for couples. Free amenities include coffee, tea, local telephone calls, fresh linens, and breakfast each morning from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. A common area with television and computer facilities generates an upbeat atmosphere in which to meet other like-minded travelers. Set in the middle of downtown Flagstaff, you can always let the action of the day extend far into the night.

Our Local Expert Says:

From this trail, you can reach the best bouldering in Flagstaff. Even if you're not a technical climber, you can find places to climb--it's like a natural playground!

Description:

Oldham Trail begins in Buffalo Park, Flagstaff's urban forest park, and climbs gradually up the south slope of Mt. Elden, an extinct volcano. The trail gets its name from Oldham Park, an open area near Elden's summit. From that high perspective you'll get a bird's eye view of Flagstaff and the surrounding area including mountains, deserts, and canyons as much as a hundred miles away. Some prominent features that are easily visible are Oak Creek Canyon, Sunset Crater, and the Painted Desert.

Along the lower reaches of the trail, you'll encounter boulder fields and cliffs where there are hidden crevices to explore and rocky nooks that make great places to picnic. As you climb higher, the trail takes you from a ponderosa pine forest into groves of aspen and mixed conifer stands of spruce, fir and pine.

In Oldham Park you'll see evidence of a catastrophic burn that occurred in 1977. Although the area affected by this huge wildfire still looks barren from Flagstaff, up close you can see how nature is healing from this man-made disaster.

Near Elden Summit, Oldham Trail joins the Sunset Trail which leads north across the top of Elden to Schultz Pass and south to the Elden Lookout Trail and east Flagstaff.

Description:

Arizona features every bio-zone in the world but two: rain forest and coastline. Flagstaff and its surrounding mountains contain all the high-altitude zones, providing a stark contrast to the desert lowlands to the south. From the tundra atop Mt. Humphreys (12,633 feet) to the Ponderosa forest that surrounds the city, Flagstaff offers welcome relief from the searing heat of Phoenix and Tucson. Flagstaff is the acknowledged champion of mountain biking in Arizona. It's a destination for riders from around the world, who come to sample its fast singletrack as well as its technical challenges. Professional cross-country and downhill riders live in Flagstaff, enjoying the competitive advantage of the challenging local trails and the altitude. And the white-hot core of Flagstaff's mountain biking scene is Mount Elden. Trail Surface: Except for the wide gravel road up to the top of Mt. Elden, everything in the Elden Trail Network is singletrack on fairly well groomed pine forest floor.

Description:

Quality ingredients and interesting toppings make new Jersey Pizza Company a good pizza experience.

Description:

If you're looking for a rustic retreat in the mountains, this bed and breakfast may have the perfect pillows. Built a few scenic blocks from downtown Flagstaff, this 1914 Craftsman house opens its doors to visitors with three spacious second-floor guest rooms, each with king or queen beds. Finishing touches include a private entrance, guest kitchen and cozy sitting room. Your hosts sweeten every afternoon with wine, coffee, tea, and cookies. Choose from a sumptuous late-morning continental breakfast in the dining area or take your breakfast at sunrise in the privacy of your guest kitchen.

Description:

Southwestern cowboy novelist Zane Grey fronted the funding in the early 1920's for the "Monte V," as it is called. Built in the heart of downtown Flagstaff, The Hotel Monte Vista, as well as the Hotel Weatherford (located a block away), are memorable for their ghost stories. In the famous Monte Vista Lounge, glasses and barstools have been known to move on their own and guests have reported many instances of "being watched." The Cocktail Lounge, perhaps most famous for its days as a successful speakeasy, is a great stop for visitors seeking live music on the weekend. This Flagstaff Landmark is located a block east of San Francisco Street on Aspen.

Our Local Expert Says:

Most consistent good music. Occasionally even gets big-name, independent hip-hop artists, and always supports the local artists.

Description:

You will just have to stop by to find out. Other than the mysterious pies, this popular Flagstaff brewpub offers ales that have been made on-site, using traditional brewing methods. The menu offers cuisine that is both made with, and matches well with, the beers. So grab a seat at the bar and hoist a mug of Mogollon's best. The atmosphere is friendly and the place virtually screams "brew pub" with its production paraphernalia. Both bar and table seating are available for dining. Live music is offered six nights a week. Pizzas, sandwiches and a few hot items are offered with its house-brewed beers as a main ingredient.

Description:

The Flagstaff Brewing Company, or "Flag Brew" as its affectionately called by locals, opened its doors in July 1994 and since then has become a downtown Flagstaff institution. Owners and co-founders Jeff Thorsett and Al Henes sought to create a casual pub atmosphere where everyone from hardcore beer lovers to outdoor enthusiasts could come together and enjoy a drink in a lively, friendly pub atmosphere. Some Flag Brew favorites include Bubbaganouj IPA, Three-Pin Pale Ale, Blackbird Porter, Sasquatch Stout, and during the holiday season, The Grinch Holiday Ale. Live music almost every night, a huge menu of mouth-watering burgers, and a spacious patio built for hours of beer drinking and socializing makes this one of the best hang-out spots in the city.

Description:

8 miles north of Flagstaff, in the Dry Lake Hills. A very scenic ride on mostly smooth singletrack.

Description:

Morning Glory is considered the best breakfast/brunch establishment in town, but its hours are short, and it is closed on Sunday and Monday. Food is eclectic and staff is small and devoted. Lots of vegetarian options

Our Local Expert Says:

Although small, this is one of the tastiest Indian food lunch buffets in town.

Description:

Flagstaff may be a long ways from Tibet, but the Himalayan Grill brings you a little closer to the culinary delights of Nepal, India, and Tibet. Tandoori chicken, savory lamb, flaky samosas, and perfectly tender naan bread are just some of the items you'll find at the Himalayan Grill. Other stand-outs include the chicken tikka masala, lamb curry, and the vegetable momo (Nepalese dumplings). Lovers of Indian food cuisine will enjoy experimenting across the expansive and tantalizing menu.

Our Local Expert Says:

Room atop rowdy bar with regular live music. Occasionally, rowdiness rises to the rooms upstairs since band members receive free accommodations. Great wireless connection in the in-house coffee-shop/wine-bar.

Description:

One block north of historic Route 66, towering over the corner of Aspen & San Francisco, the Hotel Monte Vista has been a downtown Flagstaff touchstone for decades. Built in 1927 by a citizen's initiative to bring tourist-class amenities to town, the hotel has hosted Hollywood luminaries, rock legends, and according to some guests, an assorted cast of ghosts that haunt the halls and keep things interesting. The Hotel Monte Vista has 50 rooms and suites on four floors, many offering great views of Flagstaff. Although by no means swanky, the hotel has a comfortable vintage vibe and offers a great location for walking around downtown Flagstaff.