Buffalo Park wilderness guide
City Park · AZ

Buffalo Park

Buffalo Park, a scenic city park in Flagstaff, Arizona, offers visitors picturesque views of surrounding mountains and a network of trails for outdoor activities.

City Park2154+ Trails
DesignationCity Park
Total Wilderness Area215
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Buffalo Park

Buffalo Park, a scenic city park in Flagstaff, Arizona, offers visitors picturesque views of surrounding mountains and a network of trails for outdoor activities.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located at the base of the San Francisco Peaks in Flagstaff, Arizona, Buffalo Park spans over 215 acres and provides a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The park is known for its open grasslands and sweeping views of Mount Elden and the Dry Lake Hills. Originally part of a large buffalo ranch, this area was converted into a city park that attracts hikers, joggers, and nature lovers. Its diverse habitats offer opportunities for birdwatching, with sightings of various species like the Red-tailed Hawk. The main features of the park include a 2-mile loop trail, a portion of the Arizona Trail, and access to numerous other trails in the Coconino National Forest. The park's open spaces allow for large group gatherings, making it a popular location for events and outdoor exercise classes. Year-round access to the park showcases seasonal changes, from snow-dusted landscapes in winter to vibrant wildflower displays in summer. Buffalo Park is a vital area for both recreation and conservation, serving as an important green space in the heart of Flagstaff.

Field Guide · City Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Buffalo Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Scenic views of Mount Elden and the San Francisco Peaks✦ Access to the Arizona Trail for long-distance hiking✦ Popular loop trail ideal for jogging and casual walks✦ Frequent wildlife sightings including deer and various bird species
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Buffalo Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Buffalo Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Buffalo Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Buffalo Park
Park Recreation

Trail Running

Available in Buffalo Park
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Buffalo Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Buffalo Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Buffalo Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Cave Springs Campground

Located in the nearby Coconino National Forest, providing basic amenities and access to natural attractions.

Bonito Campground

Offers a secluded camping experience near Sunset Crater Volcano, focused on minimal impact.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Buffalo Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Flagstaff, Arizona
⌖ 1.43 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Flagstaff, Arizona

Flagstaff is a high-altitude playground offering extraordinary hiking, biking, and skiing opportunities. As a certified Dark Sky City, the night skies are just as impressive.

Fall and Winter
Explore Town
Parks, Arizona
⌖ 17.09 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Parks, Arizona

Parks, Arizona offers a peaceful high country escape with forested trails, camping, and fishing access just a short drive from Flagstaff. It’s a great base for exploring northern Arizona’s volcanic landscapes and alpine wilderness.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Sedona, Arizona
⌖ 26.20 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona's striking red rock vistas and diverse trails make it a top destination for hiking, mountain biking, and more. Its vibrant landscapes offer adventure-seekers a perfect outdoor playground.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Williams, Arizona
⌖ 30.49 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Williams, Arizona

Williams, AZ is the ultimate basecamp for outdoor lovers. From hiking in dense forests to riding the scenic railway to the Grand Canyon, adventure waits amid historical charm.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Village of Oak Creek, Arizona
⌖ 30.84 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Village of Oak Creek, Arizona

Village of Oak Creek boasts stunning red rock landscapes ideal for hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and photography. It’s a serene desert base near Sedona with access to iconic trails and protected parks perfect for adventure seekers year-round.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Cornville, Arizona
⌖ 37.74 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cornville, Arizona

Cornville is a hidden gem in the Verde Valley, perfect for hiking, bird watching, and wine tours. The area's red rock views and unique wildlife make it a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Buffalo Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Historic Downtown Tour
ADVEXPEDITION
Flagstaff, Arizona
History TourADV Bookable

Historic Downtown Tour

Hop on a Segway to explore Flagstaff’s iconic historic sites and scenic trails. This 2-hour private tour blends fun with fascinating stories for an unforgettable adventure.

History TourCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Northern Lights of Flagstaff
ADVEXPEDITION
Flagstaff, Arizona
AttractionADV Bookable

Northern Lights of Flagstaff

Take an hour after dusk to walk a glowing trail of over 40 light installations at Fort Tuthill Park in Flagstaff. Perfect for families, photographers, and visitors craving a short, memorable winter evening under genuine dark skies.

AttractionNovember 20 - January 10Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Igloo Rental
ADVEXPEDITION
Flagstaff, Arizona
AttractionADV Bookable

Igloo Rental

Reserve an insulated igloo near Flagstaff’s snowfields and San Francisco Peaks for a private, short-duration winter experience. Book the structure for up to eight people—entry to the site is sold separately.

Attraction8 people maximum per iglooCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip