Just a few minutes off the freeway on the far side of Flagstaff is a nature preserve that is a walk back in time. There are beautiful views, a waterfall, and very nice petroglyphs.
This preserve is great because it’s close to town but once you get walking you feel like you are a million miles away from civilization. The trails are well maintained and clearly marked and you can pick up a trail map by the parking lot to help you navigate your way around. FYI, there are no guard rails by the waterfall so don’t let younger ones run up too close to the edge without you!
Since it’s in Flagstaff, you will get to see the seasons while hiking. Meaning, if you go in the next few weeks, you might catch the last of the summer wild flowers and berries or maybe the start of autumn with leaves turning fall colors. By the trail head are some places to sit and have a snack, but once you go farther into the preserve, there are not picnic benches or other amenities.
When you look at the trail map you will see there’s one trail that makes a large circle around the entire preserve. That one is great for adults but a bit long for kids. The places that are fun for kids to see are on the shorter, smaller loop that can be created by keeping to the trails that go by the various points of interest and are near the river. The only exception to this is the Waterbird Petroglyph site. You will want to go see it but then need to back track a bit to return to the inner loop of trails. At a leisurely family pace, the visit can be completed in a couple of hours.
The Nitty Gritty Details:
- The preserve and parking are free
- There are porta potties by the parking lot but none once you get out on the trails
- Dogs OK but of course they need to be on leash and you must clean up after them
- Close your windows as you approach because you will pass a water treatment plant and it may smell! The good news is that the preserve does NOT smell despite its proximity.
- For full information go here.
It's a beautiful spot so I hope you get the opportunity to explore and enjoy it!
