The goal of the Flagstaff Loop Trail is to provide an exceptional multiuse, non-motorized recreational experience close to the urban fringe. The trail will offer improved connectivity within our community while providing a safe and inviting transportation alternative.

What – When completed the 42 mile trail will circumnavigate Flagstaff, providing access from all areas of the city. The concept it that of an outer wheel surrounding Flagstaff, with the spokes being trails within the city (the Flagstaff Urban Trail System). The wheel will then link to the communities outside the city limits and to the network of Forest Service trails. The Loop will utilize a variety of Forest Service trails, abandoned roads, the Flagstaff Urban Trail System, State Land dept trail easements and the Arizona Trail.

The Loop Trail is divided into 8 passages which are based on geographical areas and opportunities. A passage will have a main trailhead and will be not be more than 15 miles in length, making it possible to complete a passage on foot in one day. Smaller segments are based on land management areas, existing trails and roads.

Who – This project is being coordinated by the Flagstaff Biking Organization-a local non-profit group. Flagstaff Biking has been working with a committee that includes: Coconino National Forest Service, City of Flagstaff, Coconino County Parks and Recreation and many wonderful volunteers from the Flagstaff community.

Why – The FLT Project represents a unique opportunity to plan and create a remarkable corridor close to Flagstaff’s boundaries. The project is focused on respecting our forest environments by proactively managing recreation of high-volume urban interface areas to minimize negative impacts.

Where are we now? – Currently the $36,000 of needed funding has been dispersed to complete the majority of the NEPA (National Environmental Protection Agency) work required before the remaining Forest Service trail sections can be built. Our partners with the county are working toward acquiring trail easements on State Trust Land and we are also working on creating agreements for the sections located on City of Flagstaff property.

More Information – Click on the Loop Trail map link and you will be able to view boundaries, completed sections and see the links from the Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS). Attend the Flagstaff Loop Trail Open House – Thursday, November 15^th 6 – 9 pm 2^nd floor of the Weatherford Hotel. Members of each participating organization will be available to answer questions. There will be maps and handouts highlighting the project. There will be raffle prizes and appetizers will be provided.

Get Involved! – We will need all the help we can get to work on signing, obliteration of old trails, and the building of the Flagstaff Loop Trail for 2008. Contact Trails Coordinator Mark Gullo at 928-214-0105 or email at trails@flagstaffbiking.org.