See the Best of What Flagstaff Has to Offer by Visiting This Park

We kid you not. One of the best city parks in all the United States just so happens to be in Flagstaff, and it is perfect for nature lovers of all ages! Marvel at the stunning views of the San Francisco Peaks while hiking or getting some fresh air. Buffalo Park highlights the beauty flagstaff has to offer. Are you curious? Keep reading!

Buffalo Park Is a Famous Community Park Frequented by Novice and Veteran Hikers

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Buffalo Park is a 215-acre park with a 2-mile hiking loop trail that goes through an expansive open space on the flat top of McMillan Mesa, an ancient lava flow. The place was originally maintained as a wildlife preserve for buffalo, antelope, and elk, but it turned into a family-friendly park over the years. Anyone interested in Flagstaff’s history will surely appreciate the story behind this.

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There are plenty of walking and running trails here, so you can just pick which course is best for you. You don’t have to walk the same trail on all your visits. Some trails are on native grassland but it eventually turns into a wooded ravine just to the west of the park entrance. But don’t worry, you’ll be surprised to see that all trails are well-maintained here!

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Pick your course to see the magnificent panorama to the mountains north of town. If you come during the summer season, you might even see the colorful wildflowers that adorn the land. You will see the beautiful San Francisco Peaks, the Dry Lake Hills, as well as Mount Elden.

If you want a bigger adventure, you can even access Flagstaff Urban Trail System and Forest Service trails including the Arizona Trail and McMillan Mesa Trail from Buffalo Park. There is also the “Advanced Challenge Course” along the main loop that challenges hikers to complete fun physical activities. It will surely remind you of the ninja gym in Scottsdale. Take this trail and do exercises like pushups, leg raises, sit-ups, and rope climbing.

Hikers who prefer a more varied run may also follow the Arizona trail from the north side of the loop. It won’t be long until you reach the National Forest where you can enjoy the track on rugged terrain.

Make Sure to Mark Buffalo Park as One of the Places to Visit in Flagstaff

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The great thing about this park is that it is located right off the main road. It is literally near Forest Avenue, the main thoroughfare. You can drive to the park within minutes from downtown, and it will feel as if you entered a new world with the panoramic views of Mt. Elden, the San Francisco Peaks, and Flagstaff greeting you. If you want a quick jog before work or if you want to relax for a bit and get away from the noise and lights of downtown, you know where to go.

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You will enjoy the great outdoors because this is literally one of the best things that Flagstaff has to offer! There are also some instances where you’ll be treated to wildlife encounters. Maybe you’d bump into a roaming deer while you’re running on the trail.

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We mean it when we say all fitness enthusiasts will have a blast at Buffalo Park. There are many activities to do, may it be running, jogging, cycling, rock climbing, wildlife viewing, and more! You can even take your furry friend because leashed dogs are welcome. Some doggy water fountains can also be found near the park entrance.

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Come here during mid-June for a cool hike. You might even get a glimpse of the cross country teams from all over the United States practicing. There is something so amazing about seeing the athletes take on the altitude at over 7,000 feet and run miles on smooth trails!

What to Expect

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• You will see a historic bronze sculpture of a buffalo at the entrance of Buffalo Park. Once you see it, get ready for a hiking, picnic, or a scenic adventure that you so deserve.
• From the entrance, just look to your right and you’ll see a trail offshoot that takes you to a pond. You can go here if you want a peaceful day watching ducks and other waterfowl during the spring or winter season.
• You may keep your eyes peeled for lark sparrows.

How to Get Here

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From downtown, just drive north on San Francisco Street to Forest Avenue. Turn right on Forest, before making a left on North Gemini Road. Continue the drive until you reach a large unpaved parking area at the end of the road. There is no parking fee or entry.

Location: 2400 N Gemini Rd, Flagstaff, Arizona 86004

Have you been to Buffalo Park before? How was the experience?