Run, Climb, Bike or Golf in This Mecca For Movement

Flagstaff offers four-season fun and boundless opportunities for exploration. It’s no wonder the city has been recognized among the best places to visit with your dog! It’s also no surprise the world’s top runners, cyclists and swimmers may well be sharing urban pathways, forest trails and Olympic-sized pools with you.

If running is your activity, Run Flagstaff provides everything you need. “So many people are drawn to Flagstaff for the altitude and relatively flat terrain,” said owner Vince Sherry.

“An elevation of 7,000 feet is the magic number for oxygen density. For more recreational athletes, it’s the beauty of the trails and the terrain and the community that has everything you need without a big drive or congestion.” Hence, in June 2020, trainandkale.com listed Flagstaff No. 5 for best running owns to live in.

                Flagstaff to Grand Canyon Stagecoach Line 100 Mile, sponsored by Babbitt Ranches, follows the Flagstaff to Grand Canyon Stagecoach Line route that carried tourists in the late 1800s. Today, runners and mountain bike enthusiasts can explore a wide variety of ecosystems in this popular September race.

                Navajo Run is the only Navajo-owned ultramarathon. It takes runners through 34 miles of sacred land deep into Canyon de Chelly, past spectacular red sandstone formations.

                Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS or “foots”) is a citywide 56-mile network of trails where recreationists can run, bike or walk. The trails wind through busy streets as well as canyons, grasslands, meadows and forests. The pathway connects users o shops, neighborhoods, parks, schools and wide-open spaces.

                Flagstaff E-Bike Tours owner Todd Davis envisions a future where electric bikes are a primary mode of transportation. If you’re thinking of investing in an e-bike, Davis suggests you rent one first. “Our goal is to introduce riders to recreation alternatives with our pedal-assist e-bikes,” he said.

                Arizona Nordic Village offers yurts and cabins, bike and foot races, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. It is also popular for family reunions, destination weddings and meetings. Try a yurt-to-yurt skiing adventure just 15 miles away on Highway 180.

                Arizona Snowbowl delivers year-round fun. The new Arizona Gondola combination lift whisks skiers to black diamond slopes in the winter and sightseers to expansive Northern Arizona views in the summer. With experienced instructors, the Southwest’s large beginning area and free skiing for kids 10 and under, the mountain resort invites all to enjoy the snow!

                Flagstaff Snow Park celebrates Flagstaff’s reputation as one of the snowiest cities in the United States. This winter playground provides exceptional snow-play opportunities from groomed tubing runs to snowball fights and a special area for little ones. For ticket information, visit flagstaffsnowpark.com

                Flagstaff Climbing Center offers two climbing gyms – that’s more than 9,000 square feet of top rope, lead climbing and bouldering terrain making this operation the largest climbing gym in Northern Arizona. Flagstaff Climbing also is a local source for climbing guide service and gear.

                Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course will help you get over your fear of heights when you play in the trees with friends and family. The course at Fort Tuthill County Park offers a variety of ziplines and obstacles for kids and adults to test their limits in a fun, physical and unique outdoor experience.

                Grand Canyon Deer Farm will delight animal lovers of all ages at this 10-acre park. Take the path around the park for a look at llamas, elk, bison, peacocks and wallabies. The rangers here encourage you to pet and feed the deer and even kiss the camel!

                Golf is king in summer months when desert-dwellers seek relief from triple-digit heat. Flagstaff offers private and public courses including Continental Country Club, Flagstaff Ranch, Forest Highlands and Pine Canyon. Every May, the Flagstaff Chamber hosts the Golf Classic at Flagstaff Ranch Golf Club.

                International Kadampa Retreat Center offers streamed meditation classes, courses in healing and kindness, temple tours, events, a bookstore, gift shop and the World Peace Café. The retreat center is located in Williams. For information, visit MeditationinNorthernArizona.org

                Navajo Blue Travel Center is more than just a gas stop along Interstate 40. This travel center also features Navajo Beef and Navajo Fizz soda. Near Twin Arrows Casino Resort, about a 30-minute drive east from Flagstaff, Navajo Blue offers a convenience store, shower and laundry facilities, dining and a taste of Navajo culture.

                North Pole Experience brings out the holiday season magic with elves, Santa and Mrs. Claus. Book your stay at Little America and a trolley will take you on an unforgettable journey to the North Pole. Pajamas are encouraged!

                Starlight 66 Lanes on Route 66 is the place to go for family entertainment. Enjoy bowling on one of 16 lanes, test your skills in the arcade or grab some refreshments at the snack bar. Lively music and colorful lighting add to the party atmosphere!

Source: Destination Flagstaff @7000ft. 2021 Official Relocation & Visitor’s Guide, a publication of the greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce. www.FlagstaffChamber.com