Coconino National Forest offers some of the most diverse desert and mountain hiking in northern Arizona, with options for every fitness level and interest. From shaded ponderosa pine ridges to sweeping volcanic buttes, these trails showcase classic High Country scenery close to Flagstaff and Sedona.
Below is a quick reference table highlighting key details for planning your next visit, followed by focused trail guides and practical tips to match your outdoor goals.
| Trail Name | Location | Distance | Elevation Gain | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument Trails | Near Flagstaff | 0.5–2.6 mi | 200–800 ft | Family-friendly volcanic landscapes |
| Lockett Meadow and Viga Loop | Coconino National Forest, near Flagstaff | 4.2 mi loop | 600 ft | Wildflower viewing and moderate exercise |
| Fossil Mountain Cave Loop | San Francisco volcanic field | 2.2 mi loop | 500 ft | Cave exploration and forested paths |
| Mormon Mountain Lookout Trail | Mormon Mountain, north of Flagstaff | 6.0 mi out and back | 1,200 ft | Panoramic views and solitude |
| Hart Prairie Trail and Schultz Pass | By Flagstaff | 6.8 mi loop | 800 ft | Mixed forest, meadows, and mountain biking access |
Sunset Crader Volcano And Easy Forest Walks
Walking Lava Fields And Cinder Cones
Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument sits within the Coconino National Forest boundary and delivers an otherworldly hiking experience. The Lava Flow Trail takes you across real volcanic scoria while interpretive signs explain eruptions that shaped the landscape centuries ago. For a gentler option, the shorter trails around the visitor center introduce geology to families and first-time hikers.
Short And Scenic Loop Options
With multiple short loops and interpretive routes, this area is ideal for a morning outing before temperatures climb. You can pair a lava-capped hike with shaded ponderosa segments nearby to balance sun and shade. Check seasonal road and trail conditions, as winter snow may limit access to higher-elevation segments around the crater rim.
High Country Meadow And Forest Trails
Lockett Meadow And Viga Loop Highlights
Lockett Meadow offers one of the most reliably scenic hikes in the forest, especially during spring wildflower season. The Viga Loop combines gentle grades with pockets of pine and aspen, creating habitat for birds and quiet moments for photographers. Because the loop is well maintained and popular, it is a dependable choice for hikers with varying experience levels.
Family Picnicking And Interpretive Stops
Picnic areas and informational signs along the route make this hike suitable for day trips with children or groups. The meadow opens to wide views of surrounding cliffs while still providing easy access back to parking. Arrive early in the season to secure spots and enjoy blooming penstemon and lupine along the path edges.
Volcanic Buttes And Cave Exploration
Fossil Mountain Cave Loop Adventure
Fossil Mountain Cave Loop showcases a rare combination of forest, cavern, and volcanic views in a single outing. The trail descends toward the cave mouth, where cool temperatures and echoing acoustics create a dramatic shift from the sunlit forest above. Remember that cave access may be restricted during wet conditions or for safety, so verify current status with local rangers.
Trail Connections And Volcanic History
Linking this cave loop with nearby volcanic trails can turn a simple hike into a multiday exploration of the San Francisco volcanic field. Interpretive plaques detail lava flows, cinder cones, and the geologic forces that raised the Coconino Plateau. Carry water, layers, and a headlamp if you plan to linger at cave entrances or shaded forest segments.
Panoramic Lookout And High-Elevation Treks
Mormon Mountain Lookout Trail Challenges
For hikers seeking altitude and wide-angle vistas, the Mormon Mountain Lookout Trail delivers sweeping views of the Colorado Plateau. The route climbs steadily through mixed conifer and open slopes, rewarding effort with 360-degree panoramas from the historic lookout site. Because this trail involves significant elevation change, start early and monitor weather, as afternoon storms can develop quickly at higher elevations.
Navigation And Seasonal Considerations
Snow can linger in shaded sections late into spring, while summer heat makes exposed ridges challenging. Plan adequate hydration, sun protection, and flexible timing to adjust for conditions. The trailhead is typically accessible from well-maintained forest roads, but verify clearance after winter storms or heavy rain events.
Mixed Forest, Meadow, And Mountain Biking Routes
Hart Prairie Trail And Schultz Pass Loops
Hart Prairie Trail and Schultz Pass combine forest, wildflower meadows, and gentle ridges into a versatile loop popular with hikers and mountain bikers. The route offers multiple distance options by adding connector paths, allowing you to customize length and difficulty. Wildlife viewing is strong in early morning, with opportunities to see deer, turkeys, and diverse bird species along the prairie edges.
Connectivity And Multiuse Access
Because the trail intersects with other forest routes, you can extend your adventure or shorten it based on time and energy. Riders should yield to hikers and dismount in congested areas, maintaining the forest’s quiet character for everyone. Bring a basic repair kit and check tire pressure, as sandy soils and occasional rocks can challenge tires on longer loops.
Key Takeaways For Coconino National Forest Hiking
- Review trail conditions and seasonal restrictions before departure.
- Match trail difficulty to your fitness and experience level.
- Carry ample water, layers, and sun protection for variable weather.
- Check for cave or road closures, especially after winter storms.
- Observe quiet, wildlife, and Leave No Trace principles.
- Plan parking and passes in advance during peak seasons.
- Use the summary table to quickly compare routes and pick your next adventure.
FAQ
Reader questions
Are dogs allowed on the best hikes and trails in Coconino National Forest?
Yes, dogs are generally permitted on most trails in Coconino National Forest, but they must be leashed at six feet or less. Keep dogs under control around wildlife, and be mindful of seasonal restrictions in sensitive areas such as nesting sites or designated wilderness.
What is the best time of year to hike in Coconino National Forest near Flagstaff and Sedona?
The best hiking season runs from late spring through early fall, with spring offering wildflowers and mild temperatures, and fall providing cooler days and clear skies. Summer can bring extreme heat in lower-elevation segments, while winter may close high passes and introduce snow at elevation.
Do I need permits or passes for day hikes in Coconino National Forest?
Most day hikes do not require permits, but parking at certain trailheads may need a pass if administered by a partner agency or municipality. Check specific site conditions, especially during peak seasons, and carry cash or digital payment if required at trail registers or kiosks.
What should I bring for a full-day hike in Coconino National Forest?
Bring at least two liters of water per person, layered clothing for changing temperatures, sun protection, a basic first-aid kit, map or GPS device, and snacks. Consider trekking poles for steep segments, and always tell someone your route and expected return time.