Mountain biking in Flagstaff. Part 1: 9000 feet

Flagstaff has a variety of great mountain biking trails. Some of these trails start right in the city or at the city edge; others require only a short trip out of town to the trail head.

In addition to local trails, sections of the Arizona Trail pass through Flagstaff and the nearby mountains. One of the newer sections north of town has some excellent riding through groves of aspen trees.

Riding amongst the ferns and aspens -- and the occasional elk -- on the Arizona Trail.
Riding amongst the ferns and aspens -- and the occasional elk -- on the Arizona Trail.
Aspen trees in full autumn color along a section of The Arizona Trail.
Aspen trees in full autumn color along a section of The Arizona Trail.

This is an amazing ride when the leaves begin to change color in the autumn and the shadows start to get long.

It’s also a good idea to keep a sharp eye for elk wandering through the woods and along the trail. After all, it’s important to share the trail with ALL users!