Located north of Flagstaff near the Wupatki National Monument, this volcano last erupted a little before the Norman Conquest on the other side of the world in 1066. The volcanic eruption scattered ash and black cinder for miles around the area. Serendipitously, the ashen soil allowed subsequent tribes to inhabit the area due to its ability to retain water. Alongside the volcano, visitors can examine fascinating geologic features such as 'Squeeze-ups' and 'Hornitos,' which are bulbous mounds of lava and droplets. Hike along the one-mile Lava Flow Trail and discover hidden wonders or climb a nearby cinder cone on the Lennox Crater Trail and enjoy the astounding views. Unfortunately, hiking to the top is prohibited.
The Museum of Northern Arizona is the premier facility for the study and exploration of native people and natural sciences which feature exhibits on the evolving cultures and climate of the area. Ever-changing exhibits cover anthropology, biology, geology and archaeology, as well as a variety of fine arts media. Throughout the year, Native American artists are showcased, and in the spring, an annual exhibition of Zuni, Hopi and Navajo artworks and crafts draw big crowds.
If your fishing is a little slow, you can always rely on this fresh fish farm to pinch-hit. Beautiful corn-fed rainbow trout are just waiting for you to come and get them. Bring the kids, let them bait the hook, then drop in the line, and voila!, instant supper! If you are a bit queasy about finishing the job, the skilled assistants will help you out. Buy it by the pound, the bigger your catch, the bigger the price tag. Go ahead, give it a try!
Heritage Square is an outdoor plaza with an amphitheater that holds concerts, plays and other events throughout the year in historic downtown Flagstaff. The Heritage Square Trust maintains this 11,000-sq. ft. plaza and as a benevolent organization it provides free events to the public in what the trust calls the "community's living room." The 1200-seat amphitheater is the centerpiece of the plaza and during the year visitors can always see something new. From the summer concert series with plays and music as diverse as jazz and Celtic rock, its a great place to catch an eclectic performance.
The Gallery of Modern Masters represents exceptional collection of works from 20th Century artists like Picasso, Miro, Dali etc. Alongside are works from the most acknowledged glass artists from world over like Christopher Ries, Chris Hawthrone and Peter Bremers. The place is brimming with various expressions of arts like paintings, sculptures, jewellery, one-of-a-kind furniture pieces and even beautiful photographs. They also have a stunning collection of reverse hand-painted lamps and chandeliers. On the first Friday of each month, the gallery features a well-known artist along with a local restaurant providing free tastings, wine and live entertainment for the guests. With the wide variety of collectibles, this place is a must visit for anyone with the slightest inclination towards art.
Be sure that your vehicle is in peak operating condition and that the unpaved path is in passable shape, and you're off on an exciting driving adventure! This dirt road rambles through the San Francisco Peaks and Elden Mountain range on its bisecting way between US Route 180 and US Route 89. Along the way, you'll see some of the area's most spectacular scenery from spots that are rarely trod upon by the average visitor. But remember, you'll be traveling some tough terrain, so be sure both you and your vehicle are up to the task. Contact the Flagstaff Visitor Center for more information.