Looking for a weekend getaway with your pup? This beautiful town can be found up in the mountains in Northern Arizona and makes for the perfect dog friendly destination! Let me show you all the dog friendly things to do in flagstaff.
You will want to stay until the end, because I have included a free downloadable dog friendly itinerary to Flagstaff to make your travels easier!
What To Know Before Getting to Flagstaff
Here are some travel tips when planning a trip to Northern Arizona:
- How to get to Flagstaff? Flagstaff is located just over 2 hours from Phoenix, and makes for an easy road trip with your pup. If you have the option of flying with your dog the closest major airport is the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. The Flagstaff Pulliam Airport is the closest commercial airport to Flagstaff.
- Best time to visit Flagstaff? Flagstaff experiences snowfall from November to about mid March, and although our dog loves the snow September – November is the ideal time to visit with less crowds and great weather.
- How much time should I spend in Flagstaff? If you really want to make the most of your time in Flagstaff, 2 days gives you a good amount of time to get some hiking in and explore the town.
Where to Stay in Flagstaff
High Country Motor Lodge is one of the most pet-friendly hotels in town with dog-friendly rooms and a spacious courtyard to explore.
Pet sitting, grooming and walking services can even be arranged with the hotel!
The courtyard area is dog friendly. And Thorpe Dog Park is just a 7 minute drive away. A pet registration form can be filled out online and a $100 pet fee is required.
Dog friendly hotels are easy to find given Flagstaff is so welcoming to our four-legged friends. Find some options below:
Dog Friendly Things to do in Flagstaff
As a doting mom to an 80 pound dog I am always looking for ways to get this cute pup some exercise, and Northern Arizona has no shortage of activities! Let me show you the BEST dog friendly things to do in Flagstaff.
Take Your Dog on a Walk in Buffalo Park
This 215-acre park offers a 2 mile scenic hiking trail with views of the mountains and wildlife. It also makes for the perfect picnic setting!
The park is very well-maintained, and you will find restrooms and a drinking fountain for both you and your dog. The best part is this park requires no admission fee!
Explore Historic Downtown Flagstaff
The historic district in downtown Flagstaff is a treasure trove of dog friendly shops! Many of these shops even have dog treats on hand to spoil your pup.
Although we didn’t have time to stop into every shop, I have included a great list of dog friendly shops in downtown Flagstaff below.
- Bright Side Bookshop– A charming little book store that welcomes dogs with open arms and treats!
- Sage Brush Trading Company– Stop into this local women’s boutique with your pup and check out the great selection of clothing
- P.J. Chilcottage– Another great dog-friendly shop in Flagstaff that has a variety of home goods and apparel with a great selection of soaps
- Old Barrel Tea Company– If you’re a fan of tea than this is the place for you! And your pup will even get a treat of his own.
Roam the Grounds of the Flagstaff Arboretum
Over 750 species of trees and flowers can be found here with scenic trails covering 200 acres scenic trails. And if you’re lucky you may even spot meadows of flowers in bloom! Dogs are welcome, but must be kept on a leash.
The Arboretum will often host events open to the public, so make sure to check out their page to learn more about how to attend.
Check this out for details on admission and hours.
Hike the Local Favorite Abineau Bear Jaw Loop
If you’re looking for a hike that is popular among the locals skip the Inner Basin trail and come here! An 8.5 mile loop trail that is filled with dense aspen groves and amazing views of Humphrey’s Peak.
Be aware you take an unpaved road to get here. We drove my little Ford Escape and made it here without issue, but drive slowly as it does get bumpy.
The trail begins at the parking lot and it takes you through the Ponderosa Forest until you get to a fork in the trail where you can choose to take the Abineau Trail or the Bear Jaw Loop Trail.
The Bear Jaw Loop is more of a gradual incline, and the Abineau trail is more steep but shorter and provides great views of Humphrey’s Peak.
Take Scenic Drive Around San Francisco Peaks
Located just north of Flagstaff you will find three volcanic peaks known as the San Francisco Peaks. These spectacular summits are considered sacred to 13 tribes.
Each of these tribes hold these mountains sacred for different reasons that range from healing ceremonies to ancestral resting places. You can learn more about the fascinating history behind these mountains here.
How do I find this scenic loop? This scenic loop is 31 miles long and includes mountain meadows and dense forest, the perfect playground for you and your pup!
The directions to find this scenic loop can be a bit tricky, but after we hiked the Abineau Bear Jaw Loop we got in the car and headed west to catch some more views.
Get a full break-down on how to find the scenic loop here.
Find Lake Mary and Take a Dip
If your dog is anything like ours and enjoys the occasional dip this is the place to go! Keep in mind Lake Mary is actually two lakes and the upper lake is your best bet to find water.
If your pup isn’t much of a water dog this is still a great spot to get out and stretch before heading back to the Phoenix valley.
More Fun Spots to Check Out With Your Pup
Believe it or not there are even MORE great spots to check out with your pup here! Here is a list of more dog friendly things to do in flagstaff:
There are countless things to do here, so you are bound to find the perfect fit for you and your pup!
Dog Friendly Restaurants
You and your dog are in for a real treat, as there is no shortage of dining options here!
Here is a list of some of the best dog-friendly restaurants:
- Macy’s European Coffeehouse & Bakery– One of the most popular dining spots in town and for good reason! You’ll want to order the delicious cinnamon roles and biscuits and gravy
- Charly’s Pub & Grill– Located in the heart of historic downtown Flagstaff with live local music.
- Diablo Burger– A burger joint that is popular among locals and tourists alike, and definitely a spot you don’t want to miss!
- Josephine’s Modern American Bistro– The most charming restaurant in Flagstaff located in a historic bungalow with a darling little front porch and fireplace.
- The Toasted Owl Cafe– Another popular spot located in the heart of Flagstaff with a great, big patio. Perfect spot for breakfast or lunch!
I hope you find this guide helpful as you find dog friendly things to do in flagstaff!
And if you’re looking for more places to travel with your dog, make sure to read my other dog-friendly travel guides:
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