8 Clever Flagstaff Craft Beer and Hiking Trail Pairings
Can you go hiking and visit breweries in Flagstaff on the same day? In Flagstaff, Arizona, the answer is a confident yes. With trailheads tucked into the city and forested routes just minutes from downtown, it’s easy to spend the morning on the trail and the afternoon savoring a local brew. That seamless mix of trails and taps is what makes Flagstaff breweries, bars and nightlife part of the adventure, not an afterthought.
“Our favorite trail (and trail for an easy hike) is the Flagstaff Urban Trails System, a city-wide network of non-motorized, shared-use pathways. We can walk our pups from our home to Dark Sky Brewing to Lowell Observatory, all in one day!” says Larami Sandlin of Dark Sky Brewing.
That easy proximity is part of what makes the Flagstaff outdoors special—after a hike, eight locally owned breweries are ready to welcome you for a well-earned après-trail pint.
1.) ‘928 Local’ by Wanderlust Brewing Company
928 Local, Wanderlust’s flagship Saison and 928 Blue flavored with blueberry puree
Pair with: Sego Lily Trail, part of the Flagstaff Urban Trail System
Why This Works: Wanderlust is a mere ten blocks from the Sego Lily Trailhead, so this pairing is as practical as it is poetic—an easy forest hike followed by a farmhouse ale that feels rooted in place.
The Trail: The Sego Lily Trail climbs up the east side of McMillian Mesa through Gambel oaks. Although this is part of the Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS, pronounced ‘foots’), you feel far from the city after taking just a few strides into the woods. In fact, many Flagstaff breweries are near FUTS passages. The amazingly “un-urban” Sego Lily connects to the Arizona Trail, yes, that 800-mile through-hike that links Arizona’s southern border with Mexico to its northern border with Utah. Follow the AZT northward to Buffalo Park. When you’re done admiring the magnificent views of the San Francisco Peaks, turn around and go back the way you came. For this Flagstaff trail, park on the corner of Izabel Street and Sixth Avenue for the Sego Lily trailhead.
The Brew: Your après-hike spot, Wanderlust Brewing Company (#1 on the Flagstaff Brew Trail map below), is a mere three-minute drive from the trailhead in this off-the-beaten-path Flagstaff neighborhood. Our Flagstaff craft beer pairing for one of the most enjoyable Flagstaff trails is 928 Local, the flagship of Wanderlust Brewing Company. Brewmeister Nathan Phillips prepares the Belgian-inspired farmhouse ale with local wild yeast and local honey. Hence the name ‘928,’ which, BTW, is our local area code. The Flagstaff craft beer is inspired by tradition yet is crafted with a modern twist. The ale yields fruity and flowery aromas and a dry, rustic finish (8 ABV, 23 IBU). Toast to ‘Traditional Ales for Unexplored Trails,’ which is also the slogan of this hyper-local Flagstaff brewery. Open Tuesday - Sunday.
“You can go hiking and visit breweries in Flagstaff on the same day because the trails are all local with breweries open later, so you can hike in the morning and go to a brewery in the evening,” suggests “Resch” Reschman, tapper manager at Wanderlust.
2.) ‘Piehole Porter’ by Historic Brewing Company
Pair with: Picture Canyon Natural and Cultural Preserve
Pair with: Tom Moody Trail at Picture Canyon Natural and Cultural Preserve
Why This Works: Historic Brewing’s east-side taproom and production facility puts you within easy reach of Picture Canyon Natural and Cultural Preserve, where the Tom Moody Trail delivers scenic rewards without an all-day commitment. An easygoing walk past petroglyphs, riparian habitat, and a rare Flagstaff waterfall sets the stage perfectly for a cozy, dessert-leaning porter afterward.
The Trail: The Tom Moody Trail loops through Picture Canyon Natural and Cultural Preserve on mostly flat terrain, making it an approachable hike for visitors adjusting to Flagstaff’s 7,000-foot elevation. Following the Rio de Flag, the trail reveals ancient Sinagua petroglyphs, seasonal wildflowers, and a year-round waterfall—an unexpected oasis tucked within city limits. Interpretive signs along the way add cultural context, making this one of the most rewarding easy walks among Flagstaff trails. Allow two to three miles, depending on how much exploring you do, and plan extra time to linger at the viewpoints.
The Brew: After your Picture Canyon stroll, head to Historic Brewing’s east-side taproom and production facility for a Piehole Porter, one of the most recognizable Flagstaff craft beers. Alternatively, savor the cherry vanilla porter’s roasted chocolate notes and subtle cherry finish at Historic Brewing Company’s Barrel House on Flagstaff’s Southside (see #2 on the Flagstaff Brew Trail map at the end of this story). Piehole is comforting without being heavy, and just right after a relaxed hike.
Flagstaff is good for outdoor lovers who enjoy craft beer, says James Elcoate, Historic Brewing marketing and event specialist. “We’ve got an abundance of nature because of the stewardship by the city, the National Forest, National Parks and Arizona State Parks.”
3.) ‘Backcountry Blonde’ by Lumberyard Brewing Company
Pair with: Lava’s Edge Trail at Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument
Why This Works: Both the trail and the brew hit that sweet spot of entry-level moderation, offering approachable terrain and clean, crisp flavor—with subtle layers of interest that reveal themselves the more you pay attention.
The Trail: Lava’s Edge Trail is rated moderate because of the tricky volcanic terrain. On this 3.4-mile round-trip hike, you’ll walk over loose cinders and rough basalt as you meander along the jagged edge of the Bonito Lava Flow. You might even imagine that you are on the moon as you spot the vast lava formations. In fact, NASA saw similarities to the moon’s surface here, too. They used the lunar-like terrain for Apollo astronaut training. Ask rangers at the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument visitor center for maps of how to get to Lava’s Edge Trail for your own moonwalking experience.
The Brew: Backcountry Blonde offers a clean, refreshing finish that’s perfect after a hike along the lava fields. (4.4 ABV 18 IBU.) The entry-level Flagstaff craft beer pairs easily with this moderate trail because it’s easy to imbibe, but has layers of flavor to keep it interesting. Just like this Flagstaff hike. Find Lumberyard Brewing Company’s convenient location labeled as #3 on the Flagstaff Brew Trail map below.
And when the sun dips behind the San Francisco Peaks, the experience often continues—Flagstaff breweries, bars and nightlife offer relaxed patios, live music, and low-key energy that pairs just as well with tired legs.
4.) ‘Agassiz Amber’ by Flagstaff Brewing Company
Pair with: Weatherford Trail No. 102
Why This Works: It only fits to pair a hike looping around Agassiz Peak with Agassiz Amber—a balanced, mountain-worthy beer from Flagstaff’s oldest brewery that mirrors the steady rhythm of this high-elevation hike.
The Hike: The Weatherford Trail starts at 11,808 feet above sea level and weaves through the Ponderosa pine forest before it starts switchbacking up the eastern slope of Fremont Peak. You’ll trek around the north side and, after bridging Fremont Saddle, you’ll skirt the east flank of Agassiz Peak before intersecting Humphrey’s Peak Trail … after 10.5 strenuous miles—one way! Agassiz Peak is the second-highest mountain in Arizona, but don’t attempt to summit. Fragile ragwort, part of the tundra groundcover, is listed as a threatened species, so the area is protected and off-limits to hikers when there is no snow. So, besides a ride to the top of Arizona Snowbowl’s Scenic Chairlift, the Weatherford Trail is the closest you’ll get to Agassiz Peak.
The Brew: It only fits to pair a hike around Agassiz Peak with Agassiz Amber by Flagstaff Brewing Company. With a name like Flagstaff Brewing Company, you’d think this establishment is one of the first Flagstaff breweries—and it is. Founded in 1994, the brewery (#4 on the Flagstaff Brew Trail map below) still handcrafts brews in small batches on the premises. Agassiz Amber is one of their most popular ales. Brewers balance caramel malt with Cascade and Willamette hops to produce this medium-bodied American amber. (5.75 ABV 18 IBU.)
5.) Beer Flight by Dark Sky Brewing
Pair with: Island Trail at Walnut Canyon National Monument
Why This Works: What’s a better pairing than a flight of Dark Sky brews after a literal flight of 273 steps into Walnut Canyon? Variety on the trail deserves variety in the glass.
The Hike: When you can’t decide which beer to choose, it’s time to order a flight. And what could pair better with beer flights than the flights of stairs encountered on the Island Trail at Walnut Canyon National Monument? Hike down to ancient Sinagua cliff dwellings in Walnut Canyon by way of 273 steps. The sunny trail affords a one-hour workout (round-trip). The paved path makes this a springtime favorite when snow blocks Flagstaff trails at higher elevations.
The Island Trail can close temporarily due to icy conditions or high fire danger, and it closes daily at 4 PM. Check the NPS Alerts page or their Facebook page for real-time updates on current closures due to icy spots or other hazards.
The Brew: Since Dark Sky Brewing Company continually rotates small-batch brews, I recommend ordering a flight of what's on tap when you arrive. You can choose from curious micro-batches such as multi-dimensional IPAs, lagers brewed in horizontal tanks, fruit beer, sour beer, smoked beer, coffee beer, and barrel-aged beer. Dark Sky offers some of the most creative craft beers in Flagstaff. (#5 on the Flagstaff Brew Trail Map.)
6.) ‘Railhead Red’ at Beaver Street Brewery
Pair with: Red Mountain Trail No. 159
Why This Works: Railhead Red’s deep ruby hue mirrors the volcanic tones of Red Mountain Trail itself—proof that sometimes the best pairings are hiding in plain (and perfectly color-matched) view.
The Trail: Although the trailhead is further from town than others on this list of Flagstaff trails and craft beer pairings, this hike is so worth the 40-minute drive. You’ll get a taste of what it’s like to walk inside a gigantic volcanic cinder cone – inactive, of course. The 1.5-mile hike takes you through the open terrain of pinon and juniper (think ‘no shade’) to a natural, red rock amphitheater. A six-foot, stair-like ladder gets you into the vast cone where you’ll discover “hoodoos” (erosional pillars), balanced rocks and other unusual geomorphic formations. This easy ramble is excellent for families and intriguing enough for solo explorers. Bring plenty of water, because you’ll want to stay for a while to soak it all in. Take US Hwy 180 northwest out of Flagstaff towards the Grand Canyon. Turn left onto Forest Service Road 9023V. The trailhead is 0.3 miles down the gravel road.
The Brew: After scrambling amongst the red hoodoos and dry, narrow canyon-like paths, you’ll be refreshment-ready. Indeed, I can’t think of a better pairing than Beaver Street’s Railhead Red. Brewers balance crystal and caramel malts with moderate hops to create the tasty special bitter. (5.6 ABV 50 IBU.) Stay for lunch or dinner as Beaver Street Brewery, the first of Flagstaff breweries, has a full menu. (Check out #6 on the Flagstaff Brew Trail map.)
7.) Tower Station by Mother Road Brewing Company
Pair with: Elden Lookout Trail No. 4
Why This Works: After climbing to the Elden Lookout Tower and soaking in Flagstaff’s best panoramic views, it’s only fitting to toast the achievement with a Tower Station IPA—a name-to-summit pairing that just makes sense.
The Trail: Mount Elden Lookout Trail begins at the same trailhead as the Fat Man’s Loop, the previously mentioned Flagstaff hike. However, just because the trailhead is across State Highway 89A from the Flagstaff Mall, don’t think this is an easy-peasy walk in the park for mall rats or fashionistas. Quite the opposite is true. I believe this is the toughest trail in the Flagstaff area, with 2,400 feet of elevation gain. That, coupled with its steep profile, makes this my go-to training trail when I need to build my quads or sharpen agility.
The steep, 2.5-mile upward climb to the lookout tower is on uneven, rocky terrain that can be an ankle-buster. So pick your steps carefully. However, the strenuous out-and-back hike rewards with fantastic views of Flagstaff and the surrounding cinder hills. BONUS: Often, fire spotters invite hikers inside to observe from the fire tower, initially constructed in 1914 and rebuilt after the devastating Radio Fire in 1977.
The Brew: After this challenging hike to a tower, an icy cold Tower Station by Mother Road Brewing Company is just what is in order. A healthy dose of Citra hops gives the unfiltered IPA aromas of tangerine and pineapple. Pilsner and Pale malts balance the hop-derived flavors of grapefruit in this exceptional Flagstaff craft beer (7.3 ABV 70 IBU.) The India Pale Ale gained national attention just six months after its release when Beer Advocate listed it in March 2016 as a “Top-Rated American IPAs.” In 2025, Men’s Journal featured the Flagstaff craft beer on its list of 101 Best Beers in America.
Mother Road Brewing Company, which derives its moniker from John Steinbeck’s pet name for Route 66, is where you can enjoy this copper-colored IPA. (See #7 on the Flagstaff Brew Trail map at the end of this story.) Likewise, brewers named Tower Station IPA for a Route 66 landmark, Tower Station and U-Drop Inn Café in Shamrock, Texas, known for its towering spire.
8.) ‘Kachina Wheat Ale’ by Grand Canyon Brewing Company
Pair with: Kachina Trail No. 150
Why This Works: Kachina Trail paired with Kachina Wheat Ale is a natch—light, refreshing, and perfectly suited to long, scenic miles through aspens and alpine meadows.
The Trail: The Kachina Trail just outside Arizona Snowbowl Resort is one of my picks, with tall bracken fern undergrowth brushing my legs and towering aspens overhead. If a ten-mile roundtrip is too much, simply walk as far as you wish and then turn around and go back the way you came. The rolling trail takes you around the south face of the San Francisco Peaks, offering wide views of Flagstaff.
The Brew: Kachina Wheat Ale, a clean, light, refreshing American Wheat Ale, is a perfect thirst quencher for alpine hikers. The subtle hop character differentiates American wheat ale from typical European-style wheat beer. (4.9 ABV 18 IBU.) Grand Canyon Brewing Company is #8 on the Flagstaff Brew Trail map.
This is exactly how I love to explore Flagstaff—earning every sip. If you want more of my favorite trail-and-pint combinations, head over to Flagstaff craft beer pairings and start plotting your own perfect day.
From volcanic cinder fields to alpine aspens, Flagstaff outdoors delivers remarkable variety within a short drive of town.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flagstaff Craft Beer and Hiking
Can you go hiking and visit breweries in Flagstaff on the same day
Yes. Many Flagstaff hiking trails are close to town, making it easy to hike first and visit a brewery afterward.
What is the Flagstaff Brewery Trail?
The Flagstaff Brewery Trail is a self-guided route connecting local breweries through a digital passport and rewards program.
What trail is best for an easy hike?
Of the trails mentioned, the best Flagstaff trail for an easy hike is Kachina Trail No. 150. Larami from Dark Sky Brewing recommends FUTS: “We can walk our pups from our home to Dark Sky Brewing to Lowell Observatory all in one day!”
Are Flagstaff breweries close to hiking trails?
Yes. Several breweries are located within a short drive of popular trailheads and forest access areas. Likewise, many Flagstaff breweries are near FUTS passages.
Is Flagstaff good for outdoor lovers who enjoy craft beer?
Absolutely. Flagstaff combines high-elevation hiking, forested trails, and a strong local craft beer scene.
Flagstaff Breweries Map
Whether you’re planning a full weekend or a single perfect day, Flagstaff breweries, bars and nightlife round out the trail experience with plenty of places to linger.
Use this Flagstaff Brew Trail map to find all eight Flagstaff breweries and a bonus meadery. You can download the map as part of the Flagstaff Brewery Trail Passport. Collect stamps at each Flagstaff brewery location to earn a cool commemorative beer glass. The pub glass is imprinted with “Arizona’s Craft Brew City,” a designation given by a state governor. Download your Brewery Trail Passport or visit the LoyalBrew App to register for a digital passport now to get all the details.
Read more Flagstaff craft beer and hiking trail pairings here.
* ABV = % alcohol by volume
**IBU = International Bitterness Units
Whether you’re heading out for a morning hike or winding down at a local brewery, please stay and play responsibly while enjoying everything Flagstaff has to offer.
About the Author
Stacey Wittig
Stacey Wittig’s adventures have led her up the Inca Trail in Peru eating fried caterpillars, across the plains of Spain enjoying steamed barnacles, and through the vineyards of Cinque Terre sipping Chianti Classico. “The Grand Canyon State is a remarkable place to call home,” declares the wandering writer, who writes from her home in Flagstaff.