Arboretum At Flagstaff

Originally written by Tony Subia

Reviewed and updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on August 13, 2026.

The Arboretum at Flagstaff is a 200-acre botanical and nature destination surrounded by ponderosa pine forest southwest of downtown Flagstaff. Located at about 7,150 feet in elevation, the Arboretum focuses on plants and plant communities native to the Colorado Plateau and features hundreds of plant species, display gardens, greenhouses, wetlands, open space and woodland trails. Visitors can enjoy wildflowers, native landscaping, wildlife, educational programs and scenic views of the San Francisco Peaks.

• About The Arboretum
• Gardens & Plants
• Trails & Wildlife
• Season & Hours
• Programs & Events
• Directions
• FAQ

About The Arboretum At Flagstaff

The Arboretum at Flagstaff was established to promote understanding, appreciation and conservation of plants and plant communities native to the Colorado Plateau. Today the 200-acre property includes display gardens, greenhouses, open meadows, wetlands, historic buildings and several miles of trails through ponderosa pine forest.

The mountain setting provides a very different botanical experience from Arizona's lower-elevation desert gardens. Visitors can see plants adapted to northern Arizona's cooler temperatures, short growing season and high-elevation climate while enjoying views toward the San Francisco Peaks.

Gardens And Native Plants

The Arboretum showcases hundreds of plant species suited to the Colorado Plateau and northern Arizona's high-elevation climate. Visitors can explore cultivated display gardens, native plant collections, wildflowers, grasses, shrubs, greenhouse areas and demonstration plantings designed to illustrate how plants survive in the region's variable climate.

Peak bloom typically occurs from July through September, although the appearance of the gardens changes throughout the season. Spring can be cool and windy, summer brings the greatest variety of flowering plants, and fall color can arrive quickly in September and October.

Woodland Trails And Wildlife

Several miles of trails wind through gardens, open areas, wetlands and ponderosa pine forest. Interpretive signs along the trails help visitors learn about the ecology of the Colorado Plateau, while the natural setting provides opportunities to see birds, butterflies and other wildlife.

The Arboretum is family friendly, and leashed dogs are permitted during regular admission. Trail surfaces and grades vary, so visitors with mobility concerns should ask at the Visitor Center about the most accessible portions of the grounds.

2026 Season, Hours And Admission

The Arboretum at Flagstaff is a seasonal attraction. For 2026, the Arboretum is open from April 29 through October 25, Wednesday through Sunday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with last admission at 3:15 PM. It is closed Monday and Tuesday.

Admission rates, special-event pricing and operating schedules can change, so visitors should confirm current information directly with the Arboretum before traveling.

Programs And Events At The Arboretum

Seasonal programs can include wildflower walks, bird walks, nature and science programs, raptor education, concerts, plant sales and special events. The Arboretum also operates a native plant nursery and offers educational programs for children and adults.

Program schedules vary throughout the season, so check the Arboretum's official calendar before your visit if you would like to attend a guided walk, educational program, concert or special event.

What You'll Experience At The Arboretum

Visitors can explore display gardens, native plant collections, woodland trails, wetlands and open meadows while learning about the diverse plant communities of the Colorado Plateau. Seasonal educational programs, guided walks, birding opportunities and special events provide additional ways to experience one of northern Arizona's premier botanical attractions.

The Arboretum changes dramatically throughout its operating season. Spring brings emerging wildflowers and fresh mountain greenery, summer showcases the greatest variety of blooming native plants, while early fall offers colorful foliage and crisp mountain weather before the seasonal closing in late October.

Directions To The Arboretum At Flagstaff

The Arboretum at Flagstaff is located at 4001 South Woody Mountain Road southwest of downtown Flagstaff. From Flagstaff, travel west on Old Route 66 to Woody Mountain Road, turn left, and follow Woody Mountain Road, also known as Forest Road 231, for approximately 3.7 miles to the Arboretum.

From Interstate 40, take Exit 191 toward the Route 66 business loop, travel east toward Flagstaff, turn south onto Woody Mountain Road and continue approximately 3.7 miles. Part of Woody Mountain Road is unpaved and conditions can vary after storms or between road grading, so reliable all-weather transportation is recommended.

Map To The Arboretum

More Information

The Arboretum at Flagstaff

Other Attractions Near Flagstaff

Other popular attractions in and around Flagstaff include Lowell Observatory, the San Francisco Peaks, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, Wupatki National Monument and the Grand Canyon South Rim. Visitors can also travel south through scenic Oak Creek Canyon toward Sedona.

Where To Stay Near The Arboretum

Flagstaff offers a wide range of accommodations for visitors to the Arboretum, including hotels, mountain cabins, bed and breakfasts, RV parks and campgrounds. For a quieter mountain stay, explore Flagstaff cabin rentals, or see Flagstaff bed and breakfasts for additional lodging options.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Arboretum At Flagstaff

What is the Arboretum at Flagstaff?

The Arboretum at Flagstaff is a 200-acre botanical and nature attraction focused on the plants and plant communities of the Colorado Plateau. The property includes gardens, greenhouses, wetlands, open spaces and woodland trails.

How many plant species are at the Arboretum?

The Arboretum currently reports approximately 750 species of plants throughout its gardens and natural areas.

When is the Arboretum at Flagstaff open?

The Arboretum operates seasonally. For 2026, it is open from April 29 through October 25, Wednesday through Sunday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Visitors should confirm current hours before traveling.

What is the best time to see wildflowers?

The Arboretum identifies July through September as its typical peak bloom season, although flowering times vary with temperature, precipitation and other seasonal conditions.

Are dogs allowed at the Arboretum at Flagstaff?

Yes. Leashed dogs are permitted during regular admission, although some special programs or events may have different restrictions.

Are there walking trails at the Arboretum?

Yes. Several miles of trails wind through gardens, forests, wetlands and open areas. Trail surfaces and grades vary throughout the property.

Is Woody Mountain Road paved?

Woody Mountain Road is partially unpaved on the approach to the Arboretum. Road conditions can vary during bad weather and between road grading, so reliable transportation is recommended.

Flagstaff High Country