Do you want to know what one of the best Flagstaff hikes is? Local resident, Roberta Loufek, takes you hiking on just such a trail – the Fatman’s Loop Trail in Flagstaff, Arizona.
This is one of the most popular Flagstaff hikes, especially since it’s a scenic 2.4 mile hike on the eastern slope of Mt. Elden in the Coconino National Forest.
Flagstaff hikes – Fatman’s Loop Trail
It is so-called because along the trail you’ll pass through huge boulders just a few feet apart at Fatman’s Gap. The Elden Lookout Trailhead parking lot is just off Route 89 on the north side of the road near the Flagstaff Mall.
The starting elevation is 6,900 feet, rising 570 feet over sometimes rugged terrain though it’s considered an easy to moderate hike taking 1-2 hours.
Since it’s a loop you can hike either clockwise or counterclockwise. Clockwise starts out steepest, with the other way being a more gradual climb.
It’s well-marked and maintained, scattered with steps made from branches or rocks. You’ll see oaks, Mountain Juniper, Pinon Pine, Ponderosa Pine, Yucca, and Alligator Juniper with its interesting bark – and possibly squirrels, rabbits, birds, lizards, and deer.
Here’s a look at the scenery along the Fat Man Loop Trail hike
For more information about Flagstaff visit the official tourism website.