Flagstaff – Buffalo Park loop from Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff – Buffalo Park loop from Northern Arizona University
2.8
(26)
47
riders
Flagstaff – Buffalo Park loop from Northern Arizona University
01:30
23.7km
170m
Gravel riding
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: April 1, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Coconino National Forest
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
5.01 km
Flagstaff
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
8.65 km
Buffalo Park
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
14.1 km
Flagstaff North Reservoir Water Treatment Plant
Highlight • Structure
14.1 km
Sunflower Field Near Flagstaff City Reservoirs
Highlight • Natural
14.7 km
Open Space on the Karen Cooper Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
16.3 km
View of Elden from Anasazi Ridge
Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint
Tip by
19.2 km
Karen Cooper Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
20.6 km
Downtown Flagstaff
Highlight • Settlement
Translated by Google •
Tip by
23.7 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
8.54 km
6.36 km
3.50 km
2.88 km
2.20 km
149 m
127 m
Surfaces
9.51 km
6.56 km
4.36 km
2.42 km
910 m
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Elevation
Highest point (2,200 m)
Lowest point (2,080 m)
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Weather
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Today
Monday 22 June
29°C
7°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 25.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a rewarding gravel biking experience that blends urban convenience with stunning natural vistas, the Flagstaff – Buffalo Park loop from Northern Arizona University is a fantastic choice. This moderate gravel biking route covers 14.8 miles (23.7 km) with 556 feet (170 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 1 hour and 30 minutes. It's perfect for riders seeking a diverse ride that offers both a good workout and panoramic views, making it one of the best gravel biking trails in Flagstaff, Arizona, accessible right from NAU.
What to expect on Flagstaff – Buffalo Park loop from Northern Arizona University
Starting from the Northern Arizona University campus, you'll navigate mostly paved surfaces along the Flagstaff Urban Trails System (FUTS), including the paved NAU Trail. As you approach Buffalo Park, the terrain shifts to hard-packed aggregate, dirt, gravel, and cinder. Once inside Buffalo Park, prepare for expansive panoramic views of the majestic San Francisco Peaks, including Mount Humphreys, Arizona's highest point, and Mount Elden. The park itself features open grasslands and sections of ponderosa pine forest. While the Buffalo Park loop is relatively flat and easy, the full route from NAU involves more significant elevation changes, contributing to its moderate rating. This makes it suitable for riders of all skill levels who have good fitness and appreciate diverse terrain and stunning natural features.
Planning your visit
The trail utilizes the well-maintained Flagstaff Urban Trails System (FUTS), ensuring easy access from various parts of Flagstaff. Buffalo Park is a popular multi-use area with convenient facilities like restrooms, water fountains, and picnic tables. While no specific permits are required, it's always wise to check local conditions, especially during seasonal changes, as Flagstaff can experience winter conditions. Parking is available near NAU and at Buffalo Park, so plan your start point accordingly.
Trail details
- Distance: 14.8 miles (23.7 km)
- Elevation gain: 556 feet (170 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 30 minutes
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