Fall for It

Use the LEAF-ometer to check the changing fall colors around Flagstaff, Arizona throughout autumn; from the San Francisco Peaks down through Oak Creek.

Let the content within serve as inspiration for future travel to explore Flagstaff, the golden aspens, red hues of oak trees, and the changing leaves.

Autumn in Flagstaff, Arizona is a leaf-peeper's paradise. There's nothing quite like taking a fall hike or scenic drive and viewing the golden aspen trees against a bright blue sky. Use the LEAF-ometer to get the latest foliage forecast and gauge where and when the fall colors will be at their peak. Find the top places to view fall colors below:

updated (09/28/20)

ARIZONA SNOWBOWL

Arizona Snowbowl is well known as a skiing and snowboarding winter wonderland. However, every summer and autumn nature lovers can take to the skies on the Scenic Chairlift. As you soar over the mountains you enjoy the glories of autumn’s crisp ambers, with a bird’s eye view of the mixed fir and aspen tree canopy below. Located north of Flagstaff off Highway 180 on Snowbowl Road. The Scenic Chairlift is open Fri-Sun 10 a.m.-4 p.m. through mid-October and every day during Fall colors.

ARBORETUM

At 7,150 feet above sea level and with a view of northern Arizona’s San Francisco Peaks, The Arboretum at Flagstaff is an oasis of high altitude native plants. The garden and buildings are open May through October, five days a week (closed Mondays and Tuesdays). As autumn draws near the aspen trees transform into golden pieces of art. The Arboretum is the perfect place for a picnic and family get away. Located off historic Route 66, four miles south on Woody Mountain Road, The Arboretum is an escape into the ever changing landscape of Flagstaff, Arizona.

OAK CREEK

As part of the beautiful Coconino National forest, Oak Creek Canyon is a nature lover’s paradise. With a multitude of plants that change color during the autumn season, Oak Creek Canyon transforms into the perfect fall picture. Full of radiant oranges, glowing yellows and alluring reds, the Oak Creek Canyon is impeccable for hiking with the family or that romantic autumn drive. Located along Hwy 89A between Sedona and Flagstaff.

CITY OF FLAGSTAFF

Historic Downtown Flagstaff is full of dining, shopping, and nightlife. Just off historic Route 66, the Downtown area is the perfect stop on anyone’s autumn road trip. Aspen trees line the streets of downtown transforming into golden yellows during the autumn season. With Northern Arizona University just across the tracks, families can enjoy a football game or other sports and university activities. As the heart of Flagstaff it’s the central place for all fall activities.

INNER BASIN

Perfect for hiking the majestic San Francisco Peaks, the inner basin trail is a crisp cool adventure. Golden hues invade the basin during the fall as aspen trees transform. Though there is no camping within the inner basin, the beautiful scenery makes it the ideal location for a picnic with friends and family. Inner Basin is located 15 miles north of Flagstaff along paved and dirt forest roads.

Important note: Traffic management occurs on weekends between 7:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Capacity is limited to 100 vehicles. Access is not guaranteed. Weekday visitation recommended.

CITY OF SEDONA

Fall in love with Sedona all over again! From colorful landscapes to cozy retreats and delicious eats, Sedona is one of the most beautiful and inviting places to visit during the fall months. Nature’s changing hues bring color, contrast and cheeriness to every sight, adding bright layers to the renowned red rock topography.