Buffalo Park

When those high summer temperatures linger, we (and most of Arizona, really) often hop in the car and head up to Flagstaff to cool off. The nearby mountain town has plenty to offer in terms of cooler weather, stellar restaurants and plenty of attractions. One of our favorite outdoor destinations is Buffalo Park. For starters, the views are gorgeous. The 215-acre public park features breathtaking and sweeping vistas of Mount Elden, the San Francisco Parks and Dry Lake Hills coupled with Flagstaff’s signature pine trees. This park is like being in a real-life postcard for the city of Flagstaff. We love visiting the park just to take in those mountain views. One of the other things to love about Buffalo Park? Admission is free.

Buffalo Park was founded in 1964 as a wildlife refuge and was home to elk, deer, antelope and bison. In 1973, the Flagstaff City Council dedicated this site as a municipal park, and it’s been one ever since.

Just at the park’s entrance, you’ll see a buffalo statue at the front. A sign nearby will let you know that this used to be a private wildlife park. Founded in 1964, the park served as a wildlife refuge for elk, deer, antelope and bison. In 1973, the Flagstaff City Council dedicated the site as a municipal park, and it’s been one ever since. Buffalo Park sits on the flat top of the McMillian Mesa, which is an ancient lava flow. Be sure to check out the seasonal pond on your right just past the entrance.

Buffalo Park’s main trail is just 2.2 miles long and is relatively flat – making it an easy trail to hike.

The park’s main trail is the 2.2-mile Buffalo Park Loop Trail – which is also called the Nate Avery Trail – is relatively flat and makes it a breeze for dog owners, bikers, families with strollers and hikers of any skill level to tackle. Start walking in the park and then turn left or right. Either way, you’ll enjoy gorgeous views no matter which trail you pick. Flagstaff native Nate Avery was a well-known neurosurgeon who often ran in Buffalo Park. The trail honors his adventurous spirit. If you’re looking to take in a stunning and relatively easy walk in Flagstaff, make this your trail. Along the way, you can find certain exercise stations where you might see others working out. The trail is mostly flat and wide, which makes it easy to share with others. Expect to see joggers, families with strollers and bikers along this trail. If you want more of a challenge, the Arizona Trail – an 800-mile-long trail that spans the length of the entire state – also cuts through the park. Consider hiking along this trail for just a few miles to say you’ve been on this storied trail.