Coconino National Forest

Overview

Coconino National Forest is a stunning natural area near Flagstaff, Arizona, offering a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The forest is known for its diverse landscapes, including ponderosa pine forests, alpine meadows, and scenic drives.

The forest is a vital ecosystem and a popular recreational area for locals and tourists alike, offering a wide range of activities and scenic beauty.

Outdoor Recreation Nature Conservation

Location

Address

Lake Mary Road, Flagstaff, Arizona

Neighborhood: Coconino National Forest Area

Coordinates

35.030000, -111.630000

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

tuesday 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

wednesday 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

thursday 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

friday 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

saturday 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

sunday 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Admission

Adults

Free

Children

Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

May-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

cooler temperatures and fewer crowds

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-6 hours

Full Experience

overnight stay

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

• wildflowers
• waterfalls

summer

hot

• scenic drives
• stargazing

autumn

cool to mild

• fall colors
• hiking

winter

cold and snowy

• snow activities
• holiday events

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Check trail conditions
Bring water
Wear appropriate gear

What to Bring

essential

water hiking shoes map

seasonal

jacket umbrella sunscreen

not allowed

drones without permit littering

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate to high

• stay on marked trails
• beware of wildlife

Medical facilities: none on-site, nearest hospital in Flagstaff

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

parking $5

camping $20/night

guides $50/person

Dress Code

comfortable and appropriate for outdoor activities, layered clothing, hiking shoes, sturdy hiking shoes, inappropriate clothing for the terrain

Booking Tips

• not required, but recommended for group activities
• official website
• varies by activity
• none

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Coconino National Forest App

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Trail info, Weather updates

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafes in nearby Flagstaff

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Flagstaff Pulliam Airport

Distance: 15 km

Travel Time: 20 minutes

taxi

$30 20 min

public_transport

$3 30 min

From City Center

Distance: 5 km

bus

$2 15 min

taxi

$10 10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Diverse landscapes, rich history, and numerous outdoor activities

Historical Significance: Home to ancient petroglyphs and significant Native American history

Insider Tips

Best sunrise views at Bear Canyon Lake
Less crowded trails on weekdays

Local Recommendations

• Try local cafes in Flagstaff
• Ask rangers for trail advice

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Aspen Nature Loop

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide angle for landscapes

Result: Stunning nature shots

#CoconinoNationalForest #ArizonaNature

Photography Rules

allowed areas all outdoor areas

prohibited areas none

flash photography allowed

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy permit required

tripod policy allowed

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Wupatki National Monument

Distance: 25 km

Walking: not walkable

Type: National Monument

Walnut Canyon National Monument

Distance: 10 km