The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in the San Franciso Peaks

The Oldham Trail near Flagstaff offers a delightful journey through changing landscapes, from wide cinder paths at Buffalo Park to rocky forest singletrack. You'll traverse mixed pinyon-juniper woodlands that transition into ponderosa pine and mixed conifer forests, all while enjoying excellent views of the San Francisco Peaks and Humphreys Peak. It's an easy 3.4-mile (5.5 km) hike with 671 feet (205 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 1 hour and 36 minutes, making it a great choice for a rewarding outing without extreme effort.

When planning your visit, be aware that the trail can be popular, especially near Buffalo Park, so consider an earlier start for more tranquility. While generally easy, some sections are rocky, so appropriate footwear is recommended. Navigation can be a bit challenging due to unmarked junctions, so bringing a GPS route is a smart idea to stay on course. Dogs are welcome on a leash, and the best time to hike is typically from April to November.

Part of the extensive Mount Elden/Dry Lake Hills trail system, the Oldham Trail showcases the unique geology of volcanic mountains and diverse ecosystems, even featuring cacti thriving in this high-altitude environment. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like elk, mule deer, and various bird species. The trail offers a fantastic opportunity to experience Flagstaff's natural beauty and varied terrain in a relatively short and accessible hike.

Humphreys Trail #151 offers a demanding journey to Arizona's highest point, Humphreys Peak, starting through a pleasant meadow before ascending into dense alpine forests of ponderosa pines and aspens. As you climb, the scenery dramatically shifts to a rocky, exposed environment above the tree line, where resilient bristlecone pines cling to the slopes. The final push to the summit is steep and challenging, often requiring scrambling over boulders, but the reward is an unparalleled 360-degree vista that can include the Grand Canyon and the Painted Desert on a clear day.

This difficult 10.8-mile (17.4 km) out-and-back hike involves a substantial 3660 feet (1116 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 6 hours and 19 minutes to complete. The trailhead is located near the Arizona Snowbowl parking lot. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions; snow can occur year-round above the tree line, and monsoon storms are common from July to September. Always check the forecast and carry appropriate gear for cold, wind, and potential rain.

The trail lies within the Kachina Peaks Wilderness, an area of unique volcanic origin. The San Francisco Peaks are the eroded remains of a large stratovolcano, adding a distinct geological character to your hike. Due to the high altitude, hikers should be mindful of potential altitude sickness and plan to acclimatize if possible. No off-trail travel is permitted above the tree line to protect rare plant species.

The Buffalo Park Loop offers an easy hike of 2.2 miles (3.5 km), with a gentle elevation gain of just 59 feet (18 metres), making it a pleasant journey you can complete in about 53 minutes. As you walk, you'll enjoy constant panoramic views, with the impressive Elden Mountain dominating the skyline. Look north to spot Mount Humphreys, Arizona's tallest peak. The route takes you through open meadows, skirts the edge of a Ponderosa pine forest, and passes through fields that bloom with wildflowers in season.

This route is known for its excellent accessibility, welcoming all ages and skill levels, including those using wheelchairs or strollers. The trail features wide, hard-packed cinder or crushed stone aggregate surfaces, ensuring a smooth experience. You'll find restrooms, water fountains, and picnic tables conveniently located near the trailhead. Buffalo Park is open 24 hours a day, giving you flexibility to start your hike whenever suits you best.

The Buffalo Park Loop stands out for its expansive views and diverse natural setting within Flagstaff. Keep an eye out for local wildlife; you might spot mule deer grazing peacefully or various birds like ravens and lark sparrows. This popular loop provides a quick and accessible outdoor escape, offering a taste of Arizona's high desert landscape and mountain vistas.