Flagstaff, Arizona

Nestled at the base of the majestic San Francisco Mountains, Flagstaff is the largest city in northern Arizona and also the county seat of Coconino County. It's located 144 miles (232 kilometers) north of Phoenix.

The city of Flagstaff is surrounded by spectacular natural wonders. Just one hour's drive north brings you to Grand Canyon, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. The Grand Canyon measures 6,000 feet (1,829 meters) from canyon rim to river at its deepest point, covers an area of approximately 1.2 million acres (490,000 hectares), and attracts more than five million visitors a year. Other nearby attractions include Meteor Crater, the best-preserved meteorite impact crater in the world, and where astronauts received science training in preparation for their moonwalk. Thirty-five miles (56 kilometers) north of Flagstaff lies Sunset Crater Volcano and National Monument. In addition to the dormant volcano, the site offers wonderfully-preserved pueblos and cliff dwellings left by the Sinagua people. To learn more about the ancestors of the modern pueblo people and admire some breathtaking scenery, also be sure to visit Wupatki National Monument and Walnut Canyon. Other North Arizona archeological and natural attractions include the Canyon de Chelly National onument, the Tuzigoot National Monument, the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, the Petrified Forest National Park, and numerous state parks.

Flagstaff is surrounded by the Coconino National Forest, one of the largest pine forests on earth. Another great attraction is the Arboretum at Flagstaff, a 200-acre (81-hectare) high-altitude botanical garden that offers beautiful wildflower meadows and a mile-long (1.6-kilometer-long) hiking trail. Flagstaff is also home to the Lowell Observatory. Founded in 1894, the observatory was involved in the discovery of Pluto, and it's also the place where V.M. Slipher gathered the first evidence to show that the universe is expanding. Today, the observatory is active in both astronomical research and public education, and is open for daily tours and stargazing on weekends.

With all the natural beauty that surrounds Flagstaff, you'll never lack for outdoor sports and recreational opportunities. The fantastic landscapes that surround the city can be toured by train, bike, bus, jeep, or ATV. The mountainous landscape also provides great opportunities for mountain and rock climbing, as well as horseback riding and river rafting. With its high elevation, Flagstaff is one of the few places in Arizona to receive plenty of snowfall, which turns it into a winter wonderland for skiers. Downhill skiers will find 2,300 feet (701 meters) of vertical drop and fantastic mountain views at the Arizona Snowbowl, while cross-country skiers can enjoy more than 25 miles (40 kilometers) of groomed trails at the Flagstaff Nordic Center.

Flagstaff is rich in history as well as beauty, so be sure to pay a visit to local museums like the Arizona Historical Society/Pioneer Museum and the Museum of Northern Arizona. Completed in 1904, the Riordan Mansion State Historic Park is a grand mansion with 40 rooms and covers 13,000 square feet (1,208 square meters). Guided tours allow you to explore the richly furnished home and view the original furniture, artifacts, and personal possessions on display. The Museum Club is the Southwest's largest log cabin. First built in 1931 to house Native artifacts and animal specimens, it later became a nightclub that attracted musicians traveling along Route 66. Today you can still stop at this famous roadhouse to catch some rising country stars and browse the Route 66 Gift Shop.

For those who prefer Beethoven to Johnny Cash, there's the Flagstaff Symphony and three weekly concert series offered at Heritage Square every summer.

Situated near the Grand Canyon and numerous other natural wonders, Flagstaff offers amazing natural attractions and boundless recreational opportunities!

See our 8 Jobs in Flagstaff, Arizona