Highlight • Rest Area
Buffalo Park
Hiking
5.0
(6)
Mountain biking
5.0
(3)
Running
5.0
(1)
Cycling
5.0
(1)
Buffalo Park is a beloved 215-acre open space located on McMillan Mesa in Flagstaff, Arizona, offering expansive views and a wide array of recreational opportunities. Situated at an elevation of approximately 2169 meters, this popular community park provides stunning panoramic vistas of the surrounding Northern Arizona mountains, including the majestic San Francisco Peaks, Mount Humphreys (Arizona's highest point), and Mount Elden.
Visitors consistently praise Buffalo Park for its incredible natural beauty and the peaceful escape it offers. The accessible and well-maintained trails, particularly the main loop, are a highlight, providing a serene setting for walks, jogs, and bike rides. The breathtaking views of the prominent peaks and the opportunity to observe local wildlife are frequently mentioned as key reasons why people return to this cherished Flagstaff landmark.
Before heading out, it's helpful to know that Buffalo Park features a central 2.2-mile loop trail that is notably flat and smooth, making it suitable for all ability levels, including those using wheelchairs or strollers. The park is well-equipped with newly built and clean bathrooms, water fountains, and picnic tables, ensuring a comfortable visit. Given its popularity, especially on weekends, arriving earlier in the day can help secure parking and allow for a more tranquil experience.
Buffalo Park is a fantastic destination year-round, accommodating various activities from leisurely walks to more intense workouts using its 18 parkour features and advanced challenge course. It's a prime spot for wildlife viewing, with frequent sightings of mule deer and diverse bird species. In winter, the park transforms into a cross-country skiing haven, while its dark skies make it a popular location for stargazing and night photography, with an annual night viewing event held in September.
One of the most cherished aspects of Buffalo Park is its panoramic views, which offer a constant backdrop of the iconic Flagstaff mountains. Hikers and runners often spot mule deer grazing in the open grasslands, and birdwatchers can enjoy a variety of grassland and forest birds. The park also serves as a vital hub, connecting to a vast network of other trails, including the Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS) and the renowned Arizona Trail, allowing for extended adventures.
Whether you're looking for an easy stroll, a challenging run, or a scenic bike ride, Buffalo Park offers a diverse range of experiences. You can explore the main loop, venture onto connecting trails that lead into the Coconino National Forest, or simply relax at a picnic area while soaking in the views. To discover the perfect path for your next outing, explore the many routes available on komoot and plan your visit to this exceptional Flagstaff gem.
Tips
August 9, 2023
Hiking
November 21, 2023
Mountain biking
January 17, 2024
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Buffalo Park
5.46km
01:37
200m
80m
Embark on the Oldham Trail, an easy 3.4-mile (5.5 km) hike that takes you through the diverse landscapes of Coconino National Forest. You will gain 671 feet (205 metres) in elevation over approximately 1 hour and 36 minutes, making it a pleasant outing. Starting on a wide cinder path from Buffalo Park, the route soon transitions into a richer forest environment. Here, you will encounter old-growth trees and large boulders, creating a varied and engaging path. As you ascend, the scenery shifts from pinyon-juniper woodlands to towering ponderosa pines, eventually leading to mixed conifer stands and vibrant aspen groves. This journey offers panoramic bird's-eye views of Flagstaff and the expansive surrounding region.
When planning your visit, be aware that the Oldham Trail is a popular destination, so you can expect to see other hikers, especially near the Buffalo Park trailhead. Dogs are welcome to join you on the trail, provided they are kept on a leash for their safety and the comfort of others. For the most enjoyable experience, consider hiking this route between May and September, or during November. This timing helps you avoid the extreme heat of summer and the challenging conditions of winter.
This trail provides a unique opportunity to witness the ecological transition zones of the Coconino National Forest. As you climb, you will observe the distinct changes in vegetation, from lower elevation pinyon-juniper to higher altitude mixed conifers. On clear days, the elevated vantage points offer glimpses of distant landmarks like the San Francisco Peaks and even the Painted Desert. The route's accessibility from Flagstaff makes it an excellent choice for a quick escape into nature.
5.0
(4)
79
hikers
3.49km
00:54
20m
20m
The Buffalo Park Loop offers an easy hike of 2.2 miles (3.5 km), with a gentle elevation gain of just 59 feet (18 metres), making it a pleasant journey you can complete in about 53 minutes. As you walk, you'll enjoy constant panoramic views, with the impressive Elden Mountain dominating the skyline. Look north to spot Mount Humphreys, Arizona's tallest peak. The route takes you through open meadows, skirts the edge of a Ponderosa pine forest, and passes through fields that bloom with wildflowers in season.
This route is known for its excellent accessibility, welcoming all ages and skill levels, including those using wheelchairs or strollers. The trail features wide, hard-packed cinder or crushed stone aggregate surfaces, ensuring a smooth experience. You'll find restrooms, water fountains, and picnic tables conveniently located near the trailhead. Buffalo Park is open 24 hours a day, giving you flexibility to start your hike whenever suits you best.
The Buffalo Park Loop stands out for its expansive views and diverse natural setting within Flagstaff. Keep an eye out for local wildlife; you might spot mule deer grazing peacefully or various birds like ravens and lark sparrows. This popular loop provides a quick and accessible outdoor escape, offering a taste of Arizona's high desert landscape and mountain vistas.
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
1.85km
00:29
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 2,170 m
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main trails and their difficulty at Buffalo Park?
The primary trail at Buffalo Park is a 2.2-mile loop that is notably flat and smooth, making it suitable for all ability levels, including those using wheelchairs or strollers. Beyond this main loop, the park offers access to a vast network of other trails, including connections to the Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS), Coconino National Forest trails, and the renowned Arizona Trail, which can offer more varied terrain and difficulty.
Are there any specific landmarks or viewpoints within Buffalo Park?
Yes, Buffalo Park is celebrated for its incredible panoramic views. Along the trails, you'll find stunning vistas of the surrounding Northern Arizona mountains, including the majestic San Francisco Peaks, Mount Humphreys (Arizona's highest point), and Mount Elden. At the park entrance, a historic bronze sculpture of a buffalo welcomes visitors, serving as a notable landmark.
What are the parking options at Buffalo Park, and how busy does it get?
Buffalo Park has dedicated parking facilities. However, due to its popularity, especially on weekends and during peak seasons, parking can fill up quickly. Visitors frequently recommend arriving before mid-morning to secure a spot and enjoy a more tranquil experience. No permits are generally needed for parking or accessing the park.
Is Buffalo Park suitable for winter activities, and what can I expect?
Yes, Buffalo Park is a fantastic destination year-round. In winter, the park transforms into a popular spot for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, offering a unique way to experience its open spaces and mountain views. The main loop remains accessible, though conditions may vary with snowfall.
Is Buffalo Park family-friendly and dog-friendly?
Absolutely! Buffalo Park is highly family-friendly, with its flat, smooth main loop being ideal for strollers and young children. It also features picnic tables and covered picnic areas. The park is also dog-friendly, making it a great place to bring your canine companions for a walk, provided they are kept on a leash.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at Buffalo Park?
Buffalo Park is home to a variety of wildlife. Visitors frequently spot mule deer grazing in the open grasslands. The park is also excellent for birdwatching, with various grassland and forest bird species like lark sparrows and ravens. In the wooded areas, you might occasionally see skunks, foxes, and porcupes. A trail offshoot also leads to a pond where ducks and waterfowl can be observed in winter and spring.
Are there facilities like restrooms and water fountains available?
Yes, Buffalo Park is well-equipped with amenities for visitor comfort. It provides newly built and well-kept bathrooms, ensuring convenience during your visit. There are also water fountains available, along with picnic tables and covered picnic areas, making it easy to spend an extended period enjoying the park.
Does Buffalo Park offer any unique fitness challenges?
Beyond its walking and running trails, Buffalo Park caters to fitness enthusiasts with unique challenges. Along the main loop, you'll find multiple exercise stations, including 18 parkour features. For those seeking a more intense workout, there's also an "Advanced Challenge Course" available.
Can I connect to other trails from Buffalo Park?
Yes, Buffalo Park serves as an excellent hub for exploring the wider Flagstaff trail network. It provides direct access to a vast system of other trails, including the Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS), various Coconino National Forest trails, and even the renowned Arizona Trail, allowing for extended adventures and diverse route options.
Is Buffalo Park a good spot for stargazing or night photography?
Yes, Buffalo Park is a popular location for nighttime activities. Its relatively dark skies make it an excellent spot for stargazing and night photography. Annually in September, local astronomers gather for an impressive night viewing event along the main trail, highlighting its suitability for celestial observation.