Looking for a short hike that will help you enjoy the gorgeous Flagstaff scenery? Below are a few suggestions, with a short desciption, difficulty level and hike length. Flagstaff also offers shops in town that offer outdoor gear for purchase or to rent, and a list is included below.

Now, get out there!

Known for its towering ponderosa pines and cool mountain air, Flagstaff, Arizona, may seem an unlikely place to find deep connections to space exploration. But beneath its serene surface lies a rich history of astronomical discovery and lunar preparation—making Flagstaff not only a haven for outdoor lovers but also a hidden hub for scientists, astronauts, and star-gazers alike. 

From Apollo 11 through Apollo 17, all twelve astronauts who eventually set foot on the lunar surface underwent geological and surface operations training in the Flagstaff area. Flagstaff’s USGS Astrogeology Science Center coordinated much of this training. Surrounding volcanic sites—like Sunset Crater, Merriam Crater, and especially the Cinder Lake Crater Field (a man-made replica of a lunar surface)—offered realistic terrain for practicing the kinds of exploration they would do on the Moon.

From Pine Forests to Planet Discovery

Flagstaff’s journey into space science began in 1894 with the establishment of Lowell Observatory by astronomer Percival Lowell. Set on Mars Hill, this historic site played a pivotal role in planetary studies, culminating in the 1930 discovery of Pluto by Clyde Tombaugh. To this day, the observatory remains an active research center and a popular destination for those hoping to glimpse distant worlds through its telescopes.

A Training Ground for the Moon

In the 1960s, Flagstaff’s landscape became an essential training ground for the Apollo Moon missions. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Astrogeology Science Center, still headquartered in the city, worked with NASA to create lunar-like terrain in areas such as Sunset Crater and Cinder Lake Crater Field. Using explosives, engineers crafted realistic craters where astronauts—including Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin—practiced collecting samples, navigating the terrain, and operating lunar equipment.

One of the most significant relics from that era is "Grover," a geological-lunar rover trainer built in Flagstaff in 1970. Used to prepare astronauts for the challenges of driving on the Moon, Grover is now proudly displayed in the lobby of the USGS Astrogeology Center, serving as a tangible link to the city's role in lunar exploration. 

Where Earth and Space Connect

Today, Flagstaff continues to support NASA missions through planetary mapping, remote sensing, and public science outreach. Visitors can tour Lowell Observatory, hike through volcanic landscapes where astronauts once trained, and see Grover—the lunar rover trainer that helped carry humans to the Moon.

Flagstaff is more than just a picturesque mountain town. It’s where the natural world and the cosmos come together, offering a rare blend of history, geology, and space science. Whether you’re staring up at the stars or walking the same ground as Apollo astronauts, you’ll find yourself in a place where Earth meets the universe.

While looking up, don't forget to keep your feet on the ground, and maybe put down roots in northern Arizona. To learn more about the area and the local housing market, come by the office or call to speak to one of our on-site, and knowledgeable Realtors®!

With its sweeping pine forests, dramatic lava flows, and proximity to some of the Southwest’s most iconic landscapes, Flagstaff, Arizona has quietly become a favorite filming location for a variety of movies. Though not as widely recognized as Hollywood or even Sedona, Flagstaff’s diverse terrain and Old West charm have brought film crews to the area for nearly a century.

A Scenic Backdrop with Cinematic Versatility

Flagstaff offers filmmakers a rare combination of alpine forests, volcanic landscapes, and historic towns, all within a short drive of more arid, desert scenes. This geographic versatility has allowed it to stand in for everything from the American frontier to alien planets.

Notable Films Shot in the Flagstaff Region

National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983)  

One of the most iconic road trip comedies of all time, Vacation featured scenes filmed near Flagstaff and along nearby highways. The northern Arizona roads helped depict the Griswold family's chaotic journey to the fictional Walley World.

 Forrest Gump (1994)

 Although not filmed directly in Flagstaff, one of the most   memorable scenes—Forrest running through the West with a   crowd following him—was filmed just east of Flagstaff   on Highway 163 in the Monument Valley area. While technically   outside city limits, this region is often associated with Flagstaff’s   cinematic surroundings.

Fire in the Sky (1993)  

This film, based on the real-life UFO abduction claims of Travis Walton in nearby Snowflake, Arizona, used the Coconino National Forest near Flagstaff for many of its eerie, atmospheric woodland scenes.

 Midnight Run (1988)

 Starring Robert De Niro and Charles Grodin, this action-comedy   road movie included scenes shot around Flagstaff’s forested   areas and train routes, taking advantage of the city's rugged   high-country charm.

 Easy Rider (1969)  

 While most of this cult classic road film was shot across various   parts of the West, Northern Arizona, including locations near   Flagstaff and Winslow, was featured during the iconic motorcycle journey.

A Filmmaker’s Playground

Flagstaff’s proximity to other cinematic landmarks—like the Grand Canyon, Sedona’s red rocks, and Monument Valley—has also made it a strategic home base for movie production teams. Its elevation offers cooler weather, and its local infrastructure supports both independent filmmakers and larger studio crews.

Beyond the Big Screen

Flagstaff has also become a favorite for television commercials, documentaries, and even science fiction recreations due to its Mars-like volcanic terrain near Sunset Crater and its clear night skies. Its authenticity, lack of urban sprawl, and close-knit community give it an appeal that filmmakers value.

From classic westerns to sci-fi thrillers, Flagstaff, Arizona, has quietly left its mark on American cinema. Its landscapes don’t just provide a backdrop—they help tell the story. Whether you're hiking in a forest that doubled as an alien landing site or driving a highway made famous by film, you’re likely walking (or rolling) through a piece of movie history.

And if you want to learn more about the out-of-this-world housing opportunities in northern Arizona, please come by our office or call to speak with an on-site Realtor®!

   With both a wild-west past and an outdoor spirit, Williams, Arizona, is rich in opportunities for exploration and adventure. The historic downtown is home to diverse shops, including jewelry galleries and unique hand-made goods. Visitors can find a range of gear, gifts, books and specialty items too.

   Route 66 is notable for its unique boutiques, hotels, cafes and art galleries featuring locally crafted items. Natural attractions include mountain views, wide canyons, serene lakes and over 100 miles of hiking trails, perfect for off-road exploration.

   Visitors can spend time in the picturesque mountain air, surrounded by ponderosa pines near clear lakes. The area offers activities like horseback riding ,camping, hiking and fishing in the scenic Kaibab National Forest.

1. Canyon Coaster Park    

   Canyon Coaster Adventure Park is the newest addition ot the bustling town of Williams. It offers year-round fun for the entire family with attractions that include a coaster, winter and summer tubing hill, a base lodge with grab and go grill, along with a snow play area.

   Take a break and hang out by the fire on the outdoor patio. The lodge features an outdoor deck that has seating and views of all the activities and four big screen onitors ewhere customers can review and purchase videos and photographs of the rides.

2.  Bearizona   

   Bearizona Wildlife Park is an Arizona one-of-a-kind destination that calls Williams home. The park houses a variety of animals, including bears, worlves, bighorn sheep and bison. Visitors can explore the walk-thru park or drive-thru in the comfort of their own vehicle to see animals up close in their natural habitat.

   After years of requests for "behind the scenes" experiences, Bearizona has announced a new VIP program, where you can go backstage and meet the wildfife park's animal ambassadors and their friendly keepers. This up-close experience will fill our camera roll as well as your heart.

3.  Grand Canyon Railway   

   The historic Grand Canyon Railway departs daily from Williams to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon. Enhance your Grand Canyon experience with an entertaining train ride featuring western musicians and cowboy characters on vintage rail cars.

   Out your window, the terrain changes from high desert to prairie, prairie to pine. It's a view that's ever-changing until you come across a view so brilliant, it could very well change you.

   See more package options, make reservations and learn all about the popular Polar Express at TheTrain.com.

Williams is a Northern Arizona gem, offering a mix of history and adventure for all to enjoy.

For more information, go to GrandCanyonTourGuide.com.

And when you are in Flagstaff, come by or give our office a call to learn more about the real estate market in Northern Arizona!