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This route is a nice combination of paths at the 200-acre Arboretum at Flagstaff, and a quiet dirt road that extends from the Arboretum.
Arboretum. High-elevation demonstration gardens, wild woodlands, and sun-drenched prairies at the foot of the San Francisco Peaks! Winding gravel paths beneath a canopy of ponderosa pines. Notes: The Arboretum is closed in winter. Admisson required. Especially beautiful during wildflower season.
Woody Mountain Road. This dirt road springing from the southwest corner of the city is a hidden gem, particularly beloved because it is plowed in wintery weather (unlike the FUTS paths). With rolling hills and a packed dirt surface, this rarely-traveled road spans some 32 miles. Easy parking for an out and back can be found at the Arboretum at Flagstaff. From here, the road runs southwest through open range, ending at the edge of the Mogollon Rim which overlooks Sedona. The road also connects to great trails at the Rogers Lake County Natural Area.
- 6.6 miles (10.8 km) out and back with extensions
- 309 feet
- Arboretum at Flagstaff
- Woody Mountain Road
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Unfortunately, since 2020 Woody Mountain Road has become much more highly trafficked with recreational visitors, including trucks and ATVs going at high speed and kicking up massive clouds of dust. Still tons of runners, but come early in the morning for the best chance at clear air! And while it used to be regularly plowed in wintry weather, that’s no longer the case–sometimes it is, sometimes it isn’t. The Arboretum is a wonderful stop, just note that it’s a private nonprofit so it’s not available to use as a free parking lot–pay the modest admission or get a membership (it’s a great cause!) if that’s your parking base.