Flagstaff Guide » More About Flagstaff: Overview

Overview

Under the watchful gaze of the San Francisco Peaks, famed Route 66, the Ghost Highway, winds its way around northern Arizona's dramatic landscape, past Walnut Canyon, south of Sunset Crater and the Painted Desert, and right through the heart of downtown Flagstaff. According to local lore, this quiet, close-knit community, situated on land that was once settled by the powerful Navajo Nation, traces its roots to a July 4th celebration in 1876, when pioneers led by Thomas F. McMillan found a solitary pine tree, stripped it of its bark, and used it as a flagpole for Old Glory. For years afterwards, the staff stood as a marker for brave souls making the trip west. In 1886, the first permanent building, a post office, was constructed to serve the tent community that had begun to form. Since that time, Flagstaff has become a bustling town that, thanks to its location, enjoys a steady flow of year-round tourists. Wintertime thrill-seekers test their limits at the Arizona Snowbowl. Stargazers, via the same equipment used to discover Pluto in 1930, hope to catch a glimpse of the Great Unknown at historic Lowell Observatory. Whitewater rafters push their skills on the Colorado and Little Colorado Rivers. Hikers explore the majesty of the Grand Canyon's South Rim or enjoy dramatic scenery on an overnight trip to Oak Creek Canyon in the Coconino National Forest. History buffs take home a bit of knowledge after visiting Flagstaff's historic downtown district or viewing Riordan Mansion, the Wupatki ruins, and Montezuma Castle cliff dwellings. At the end of an adventurous day, they treat themselves to fine meals at Beaver Street Brewery, the Horsemen Lodge, Cottage Place, or another of the more than 200 restaurants in greater Flagstaff.